Top electronics and mobile handset companies in Indian market are poised to launch their own e-commerce stores to compete with e-commerce giants such as Flipkart, Snapdeal etc. Consumers in India are heading towards e-commerce store instead of retail shops because of good bargains they get from these online stores and companies like Sony, Panasonic, LG and Samsung wants to tap on customers leaving retail shops for e-commerce stores.
Sony is reportedly planning an e-commerce model that will link its exclusive brand stores under a single online platform while Japan's Panasonic is looking for a reseller to launch its e-store by next month only
LG and Samsung have already expanded their e-stores (e.g. Samsung India e-store) to include the entire range of products, instead of selling just mobile phones and tablets.
At present, these companies are operating their e-commerce sites through dealers or distributors as Indian regulations prohibit foreign companies to sell their product directly to consumers via ecommerce stores. However as per expectations upcoming budget will lift most of the prohibitions for foreign e-commerce transactions in India that might probably give big relief for these companies.
Sony India's upcoming e-commerce platform will have virtual promoters who will explain product features to consumers. "That apart, we have signed agreements with all top e-commerce sites, whereby they have to maintain our business terms and condition, including pricing," said Sunil Nayyar, sales head of Sony India.
These companies' e-stores will periodically offer deals and discounts, which would also be offered in the physical stores, apart from benefits such as loyalty schemes.
Decision of these electronics companies to move towards e-stores under its own umbrella is to counter the discounted price competition given by traditional e-commerce stores such as Flipkart and Snapdeal.
Some companies have also issued consumer advisories that sales through unauthorised e-commerce sites may lead to sale of fake products, which would not enjoy local warranty support.
Not just electronics companies but grocery and other consumer durable companies like Reliance Industries is also planning to launch its own e-commerce store as alternate for retail market such as Big Bazaar, More market and Reliance trends.
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