MobileNXT launches mobile retail stores

While the Indian mobile industry is bursting at the seams — the total
subscriber base stood at 95,510,904 (GSM and CDMA, as on April 30, 2006. Source:
COAI and AUSPI) - there was not a single nationwide handset retail outlet that
caters to the populace till some time back.

Nokia took the lead by establishing exclusive showrooms under the Priority
Shop brand name, other handset players also followed. There is no paucity of
shops selling handsets, but there hasn't been a concerted effort towards a
single integrated brand shop in India until MobileNXT.

The Bangalore-based company is aiming to cater to this space, and terms
itself as 'India's first mobile retail chain'. MobileNXT is all set to
launch a number of stores across India under the same brand name. Currently four
such stores are operational in Gurgaon, Kolkata, Mangalore and Ahmedabad.

VIJAY MENON: Bullish about India's first mobile retail chain

“We intend to open 31 more outlets by the end of this year and 170 in the
next three years,” said Vijay Menon, CEO, MobileNXT.

The company is investing close to $5 million in the venture and is targeting a
turnover of Rs 48 crore in the first year and an ambitious Rs 380 crore in three
years.

MobileNXT also offers after sales-service to the customers. Menon also talked
about an innovative exchange offer. “It is called NXTChange, wherein we give a
guarantee that we will purchase the used handset back at a certain fixed value,
providing it is in a good working condition. For instance, if a customer buys a
Nokia N91, we offer to pay approximately 70 percent back three months later, 60
percent six months later and 50 percent a year later,” elaborated Menon.

MobileNXT also provides allied mobile services. “People can also download
latest ringtones, games and wallpapers from a kiosk at our outlets at a much
lower cost,” added Menon.

He is also bullish about the sale of CDMA handsets, which were until recently
bundled by the service provider.

Shashwat Chaturvedi