Schneider Electric enters the high growth Indian retail market

Company Brief

New Delhi, June 27, 2011

Schneider Electric India today announced a national retail rollout for its switches, sockets and distribution systems for the home & SMB (small and medium business) market segments. The retail initiative kicks off with the launch of ZENcelo and Vivace range of switches and the NeoBreak distribution systems in a phased manner that begins with Maharashtra, followed by similar rollouts in Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu over the next few months. The national rollout will be complete by 2012.

This is Schneider Electric’s first foray into the retail sector covering the home and SMB market segments. As part of the retail initiative, Schneider Electric aims to appoint 4000 retail outlets by 2012.

All the products across categories will be available under the Schneider Electric brand.

Commenting on the launch of the retail initiative, Olivier Blum, Managing Director, Schneider Electric India said, “We are extremely pleased to enter the retail market with a diverse range of products that target the home and SMB segments. The Indian consumer today expects world class quality, service and aesthetics at an affordable price. We believe that Schneider Electric’s legacy of innovation backed by its engineering and manufacturing expertise can fulfill these expectations.” He further added, “Our retail partners are key to the success of this initiative and we are committed to a partnership that results in a better consumer experience.”

In an industry first, a customized Schneider Electric mobile application will enable authorized retail partners to place orders 24x7. This will result in faster delivery of stocks and will allow real-time tracking of orders and deliveries.

“Discussing the mobile application, Mr. Balaji Lenka, Vice President – Retail Channel Sales said, “This is an innovation that was developed by Schneider Electric specifically for retailers, who have traditionally often had to deal with over or under-stocking of products. This application will allow real-time inventory tracking and improved order management and therefore enable significant cost savings for our retailers going forward.”

The market size of switches and distribution boards in India, growing at approximately 16% year-on-year basis industry estimates, is currently pegged at Rs. 2400 cr, of which the home market size is considered to be Rs. 1400 cr while the enterprise market is pegged at approximately Rs. 1000 cr. From a regional perspective, the western, southern regions and northern regions are fairly equally poised in terms of market-share, followed by eastern India.

In first phase Maharashtra excluding Mumbai to be covered. Mumbai to be covered in early 2011

Product Lines

Vivace - The Vivace is a switch and socket set that perfectly complements the modern lifestyle. Belonging to the premier range, C-Vivace present a cool refined touch of style to almost any interior. The highlights of the entire Vivace range include:

• Clean, Geometrically Balanced Design: The sleek clean lines manifest an art of simple, elegant minimalism. Complements perfectly with any type of modern interiors

• Slim Profile: Wall plate is only 8mm slim at the thickest point. The subtle curve further accentuates its slender elegance.

• 16 AX Switches: Handles additional loading. Enables wider application

ZENcelo - The ZENcelo is a range of aesthetically pleasing flat switches and has been created for the majority who use electromechanical switches.

• Design – Zencelo is all about style and substance rather than superficial elaboration. It has clear and non-intrusive design, a design marvel by itself and it blends well into any contemporary interior design.

• Technology - The unique iso-motion-press mechanism ensures that the switch stays in the same position whether on ON or OFF and can be swiftly operated with one simple motion.

Neo break - Affordable yet elegant, the entire range of NeoBreak MCBs, RCCBs and Distribution Boards are designed to provide unmatched protection to and safety of residential and tertiary electrical installations.

For further information, please contact:

Six Degree PR

Neha Bhatt

Mobile: +918527228877

Email: nehab@sixdegreespr.co.in