TCL to sign up its second distributor

Mumbai-based TCL India Holdings, manufacturer of IT and
consumer electronics (CE) products, is augmenting its channel network with the
addition of a distributor in Chennai. The company currently has one distributor
in Mumbai, Vardhaman Computers, and another in Pune, DSK Infotech.

AKHTAR KHAN Trying to make inroads into the southern market

TCL initiated its IT business in the West and is now trying
to make inroads into the southern market. Once it appoints the distributor in
Chennai, it will train its sights on the northern market. Said Akhtar Khan,
Senior Manager — National (Channel Management) — IT, TCL India Holdings,
"We took a strategic decision to first have the service deliverables in
place, before we start selling. And even then, we would rather go region-wise
than nationally."

Each of TCL's existing distributors have two more
sub-distributors, each and Vardhaman Computers is planning to add two more to
this number. These sub-distributors then sell to a network of dealers.

The range of TCL's IT products currently available are 15" 17"
and 19" TFT monitors, digicams and laptops. Though the company has several
other products in its portfolio, including desktops, LCD monitors,
Flash-disk-based products, MP3 and MP4 players; it does not plan to introduce
these in the Indian market yet.

VINITA BHATIA