'We will open 20 new factory outlets in India this year'
Hans-Kristian Hoejsgaard, CEO & President, Timex Group BV, speaks on expansion plans in India and new strategies to attract the young. Excerpts:
Has the slowdown hurt sales of mass brands like Timex?
On the contrary, we’re still growing and doing particularly well in India, China and West Asia. Our strength lies in the diversity of our portfolio—from designing and manufacturing a mass brand like Timex, to holding exclusive worldwide licences for Versace, Ferragamo, Valentino and Vincent Bérard.
What is your key focus now?
The biggest challenge today is to attract youngsters, who’re willing to experiment, to get them excited about watches. Hoping to address this, we’ve tied up with a hip-hop brand like Marc Ecko, known for its unique and edgy designs.
Where does India figure in your global pecking order?
Right at the top. We will open 20 new Timex factory outlets in India this year and six new points of sale centres for Ferragamo. We are keen to be a long-term player in the luxury segment, too.
