Panasonic India targets 330% growth in AC 2009

Company Brief

Mumbai, February 23, 2009

Panasonic, a leading Japanese manufacturer of electronic and electrical products for consumer, business and industrial use, today announced the launch of three new range models of air conditioners based on eco friendly technology. The eye catching models are available with features like Advanced Air Purification System with Patrol Sensor. The models are based on eco-friendly technology, are energy saving, provide better cooling and are targeted at premium and luxury segments.

“India is a strategic market for Panasonic and we are aggressively looking to expand our footprint in the country. The consumer durable goods category is crore in India and our target is to achieve 330 % growth in 2009. In line with our efforts towards promoting green technology, we have introduced new models of air conditioners that reflect Panasonic’s endeavour to constantly improve the quality without compromising on the surroundings. With this new launch in our brand portfolio we hope to extend our leadership”, said Mr Daizo Ito, CEO, Panasonic India Pvt. Ltd.

Also present at the launch, Mr Kallol Choudhury, Head – AC Business, Panasonic India Pvt. Ltd, asserted, “Through the new “ECON” range, we hope to make the premium Panasonic air conditioners easily available to the mass market at affordable prices. The Company is taking an aggressive distribution strategy to increase the number of channel partners from 130 to about 500 next year. We have embarked on an aggressive marketing campaign and have customised this product range for the Indian market, which we believe will help us achieve our targeted market share of 10 % in the split AC segment this year”.

Currently, Panasonic sells two models of air conditioners in the Indian market. The new range models (Econ Dustbuster, Econ Silver and Econ Pearl) priced between Rs 21,900 to Rs 55,500 will hit the markets in March 2009 and will be available in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and all other major cities in India. All Panasonic air conditioner models are RoHS Compliant. The Econ Dust buster model has an Advanced Air Purification System (APS) and a Patrol sensor that continuously monitors the level of dust in the room air. Once dust is detected by the sensor, the unique Advanced APS switches on and removes dust in room air, 5.5 times faster than other ACs. The Advanced APS also destroys 99% virus and bacteria; rendering room air fresh and virtually contaminant free and thus safe for healthy breathing. The Econ Silver model employs a special Alleru Buster filter that is self generating and successful removes smoke and odour from room air. Panasonic air conditioners (marketed earlier as National) continue to employ pioneering technologies such as Blue-Fin technology that renders the product durable and long lasting. The new air-conditioners will be supported by a mix of consumer outreach programmes across urban markets. An integrated communications mix spanning TV, print, outdoors and consumer/trade promotions will be carried out to promote the product in Indian market.

For further information, please contact:

Genesis-Burson Marsteller

Aanchal Chachra

Mobile: +91 9899043917

Email: aanchal.chachra@bm.com