MAM
Thomson looks to capitalise on Asia media space
MUMBAI: French Electronics and media services company Thomson has outlined a strategic growth map for the next two years.
As far as the media and entertainment sector is concerned the company is looking to broaden the offering to existing clients and expand client base including Asia.
The company is looking to double the number of clients with whom it generates over E25 million in sales. It is also looking to add at least five new revenue-generating activities to its portfolio.
One major change is that the company will no longer manufacture television sets. It will sell its tubes and display business. Instead the group will focus on media technologies like technology for set top boxes. It plans to raise its profile in technology-related debates and industry choices.
It is looking to double revenues in technology from the current E150 million. The core research budget will go up by 50 per cent in 2005 and 2006.
Thomson chairman and CEO Frank Dangeard said, “Our two-year plan is driven by the way in which we see our core markets and client base evolving through 2010. Based on this long-term view, we have defined our 2006 strategic priorities and, in each case, we have clear roadmaps and targets.
“The group has new momentum, reflected in a simple and flexible organisation. By 2006 we will be fully focussed on the media and entertainment industries, have a more diversified spread of activities and a broader client base, and will be uniquely positioned to benefit from the rapid pace of technology change in these industries.”
In the framework of its two year plan, Thomson has significant revenue generating business units which will remain “locomotives” for growth. This includes physical media in the form of film and DVDs.
Brands
Raj Cooling Systems launches Agreyas appliances brand
Emraan Hashmi named brand ambassador for consumer appliance push.
MUMBAI: A company known for cooling solutions is now heating up its ambitions in the home appliances market. Raj Cooling Systems Pvt. Ltd. has launched a new consumer appliances brand, Agreyas, marking its entry into India’s rapidly expanding home appliances sector valued at more than Rs 1.5 lakh crore. The move represents a strategic diversification for the company, which has traditionally focused on cooling solutions for residential, commercial and industrial applications. Through Agreyas, the firm plans to tap into growing consumer demand for energy efficient and technology driven household appliances.
To build brand visibility, Agreyas has appointed Emraan Hashmi as its brand ambassador. The campaign has been developed under the banner of Zoommantra Productions, with actor and filmmaker Rohit Roy contributing to the creative direction.
The brand’s initial portfolio will include mid premium air conditioners, washing machines, geysers and other white goods designed to cater to modern Indian households seeking efficient and reliable appliances.
Raj Cooling Systems, founder and chairman Kalpesh Ramoliya said the launch aligns with the company’s broader expansion plans.
“The launch of Agreyas is in line with our vision to build a strong presence in India’s consumer electronics and home appliances market. The brand has been developed as a standalone identity to meet the evolving needs of Indian consumers,” he said.
Hashmi said the collaboration comes at a time when Indian buyers are increasingly looking for innovative and functional home solutions.
“I’m looking forward to working with Agreyas at a time when consumers are seeking more innovative and efficient home products. The brand reflects changing consumer behaviour around functionality, innovation and ease of use,” he said.
Raj Cooling Systems plans to invest around 10 million dollars in developing the brand, with an additional 5 million dollars earmarked over the next three to five years for product development and distribution expansion.
Agreyas will follow a multi channel distribution approach, selling through online platforms, retail outlets and dealer networks aimed at both urban and semi urban markets across India.
With the launch, the company is positioning Agreyas as a standalone consumer facing brand while continuing to leverage its existing manufacturing, engineering and research capabilities built through its core cooling solutions business.
