Goldkist expands channel for O2 mobiles

After bringing O2 mobile phones into India, Singapore-based IT distribution

company, Goldkist International, has tied up with New Delhi-based Creative-E-Biz.com

(Creative) as its channel partner. It is also looking at enveloping more

partners into its folds. Deepak Sharma, Senior Manager, Channels and

Distribution, Creative informed, "We are seeking partners who have good

relations with corporate customers. If they have their own retail outlets, then

it would be an additional benefit."

O2 MOBILE The Xda II mini is priced at Rs 35,000 while the Xda IIs Black is priced at Rs 45,000

Goldkist has over 90 partners in various metros, which is likely to go up to

150 by the end of current quarter. Haridas Gupta, MD, Goldkist said, "We

have an established a partner network in only the metros to an extent. Now, we

are looking for partners in non-metro towns in Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh,

Chandigarh and Gujarat states as well," he explained.

The company is also investing into logistics to ensure that there is no delay

in supply. Since it takes care of after-sales services, partners are relieved of

this as well. Service centers will be set up to cater to after-sales services in

Hyderabad, Cochin, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh and Kolkata.

Talking from the consumer's point of view, Haridas said, "With the

kind of pricing, the product is not for entry-level customers. High-level

executives will definitely get attracted by this because of its unique

features." The two products being marketed are targeted at the premium

market segment. The Xda II mini is priced at Rs 35,000. The Xda IIs Black is

priced at nearly Rs 45,000. By the end of February 2005, O2 X Phone II will also

be launched. This will target the mid-market segment and be priced at Rs 22,000.

FAIZ ASKARI