Jean Noel Bironneau, India head of Carrefour says, “We will start with our first store in a few weeks’ time. We have signed several properties in other parts of the country as well.’ According to the law, the company can sell only to business consumers who run other stores or buy in wholesale.
The company will continue to scout around for a partner in the meanwhile, though it has not disclosed its equity model. It has been talking to Kishore Biyani's Future group for a cash and carry joint venture.
The company also plans to source its requirements from India for its international operations to multiply its growth from the current US $150 million annually, once it starts wholesale business in India. It will tie up with farmers through various initiatives and has also lined up aggressive investment plans. “We will look at engaging proactively with farmers and help them upgrade. It is mutually beneficial,” said Bironneau who says they are trying to win over trust of farmers, before getting full-fledged into the market
"Our first wholesale cash-and-carry outlet will be opened in Seelampur in East Delhi within 2-3 months. It will be have an area of 55,000 sq ft and will have over 30,000 SKUs or products varieties," he said.
Carrefour will start the cash-and-carry business as a wholly-owned subsidiary but Bironneau said the company is still willing to explore the franchise route for growth.
"We are open to partnership and in the next few months we will identify a partner and it will then be announced by our global headquarters," he reportedly added. He refused to speculate on the possible deal with Biyani group.
The company sees India as a key market and sees a long term profitability here and a sizable addition to its annual worldwide revenues of € 86 b. |