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Kamal Narang

Mr Wang Cheng, Product Line Chief, Haier Appliances India, and Mr Pranay Dhabai, Wholetime Director and COO, at the launch of ‘electric Spa water heaters’, in the Capital on Thursday. —

Our Bureau

New Delhi, Aug. 6 Even as it grapples with perception regarding quality, Chinese electronics and appliances company Haier Appliances has said it will widen its product basket in the near term.

The company said it is investing about Rs 100 crore to double its refrigerator capacity besides also examining the feasibility to introduce products such as computers and built-in kitchens in India.

“Plans are under way to increase the capacity of our refrigerator plant at Rajangaon from 3.5 lakh units to 7 lakh units per annum. The unit caters to the export and the domestic market,” Mr Pranay Dhabhai, Wholetime Director and COO, Haier Appliances India, said.

Haier exports to West Asia, Africa and Sri Lanka. The company, which posted a turnover of Rs 325 crore, hopes to end the year with Rs 400 crore sales.

Mr Dhabhai said its focus is to bring consumer-relevant innovations to the Indian household.

On how it was addressing perception that Chinese products were low on quality, he said, “It is a mindset. The Japanese, Taiwanese and Koreans have all gone through this cycle in India. However, Chinese products from renowned brands are making inroads and gaining consumer trusts.”

The company which launched its range of electric water heaters said its new product offering is aimed at capturing larger market in the home appliances category. The ‘Spa Water Heater’ is priced between Rs 6,500 and Rs 10,260.

More Stories on : Outlook | New Products & Services | Home Appliances

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