Ample plans Apple centers in Chennai and Hyderabad

Spurred by the success of India's first exclusive Apple retail center at the Forum Mall in Bangalore, Ample Technologies has decided to extend its retail presence to the southern metros of Chennai and Hyderabad. According to Ample Technologies Director, Rajesh Narang, “We plan to have exclusive stores in these cities, but on a smaller scale than Bangalore, sometime in mid-2005.”

When asked if he planned to expand in the north, he said that given the company's presence in Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad, the focus would be on south India.

While Ample caters to both - the corporate segment as well as individual users, the former brings in the bulk of the business. However, Rajesh said that selling to individuals is more gratifying. “Around 80% of buyers at the store are first time users. It is satisfying to add on more Mac converts,” he said.

To boost revenues from the Apple center further, Rajesh plans a special scheme over Christmas-New Year, in which customers can buy any Apple product by paying six equal installments over a six-month period through Citibank.

The Apple center that was started in March 2004 in Bangalore, has on display the entire range of Apple products and accessories including iMacs, iBooks, PowerBooks and
iPods.

PRIYA PADMANABHAN

BANGALORE