Thomson to enter Indian laptop market and explore international exports

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New Delhi: Consumer electronics giant Thomson is set to enter the Indian laptop market within the next two quarters and is considering exporting Indian-manufactured smart TVs and other products to international markets, according to a company official.

Thomson, which is owned by Technicolor SA, expressed satisfaction with the quality of manufacturing by its Indian brand licensee, Super Plastronics Pvt Ltd (SPPL). SPPL is investing Rs 300 crore to establish a fully-automated manufacturing plant in Hapur, Uttar Pradesh, with the aim of boosting its TV unit production to 2 million annually.

Thomson, already selling laptops in niche markets like the US, France, and parts of Europe, plans to expand its laptop offerings in India across entry-level, mid-range, and premium segments.

Thomson re-entered India through SPPL in 2018 after 15 years and is determined to become one of the top five global markets for the company. Sebastien Crombez, Manager of Technicolor Trademark Licensing Sales & Marketing, explained that Thomson is in discussions to export Indian-manufactured TV units to global markets and is visiting SPPL’s manufacturing units to encourage European partners to source products from India.

Crombez highlighted the competitive advantages of Indian manufacturing, emphasising cost savings and good product quality. He also noted the increasing trend of companies seeking alternatives to Chinese manufacturing due to various geopolitical factors.

Regarding specific markets for ‘Make-in-India’ products, Crombez said, “We do not have any specific markets (at the moment),” and that they are open to opportunities and discussions with partners.

Thomson, an online brand sold through channel partners like Flipkart, has extended its product range from smart TVs to include appliances such as washing machines, air conditioners, and small appliances. SPPL Director and CEO Avneet Singh Marwah expressed a desire to introduce more technology-based products in collaboration with Thomson, starting with laptops.

Marwah noted the fast-growing nature of the Indian market, and in terms of technology, mentioned that Thomson sells laptops in various countries through its partners. He added that the recent government notification permits laptop imports until September 2024.

While specific pricing details were not disclosed, Marwah described Thomson’s approach “would be disruptive.” In the smart TV segment, he anticipated growth in the second half of 2023, driven by festive season sales.

SPPL, which manages a portfolio of five global brands in the TV and appliances sector, including Thomson, Kodak, Blaupunkt, White-Westinghouse TV, and White-Westinghouse (Trademark of Electrolux), has set a revenue target of Rs 1,200 crore for the current financial year.