Whirlpool to invest for expansion and upgradations

Kolkata, Apr 12 (UNI) Whirlpool India, subsidiary of global home appliances manufacturer Whirlpool Corporation, will invest $ 15-20 million for capacity expansion and technology upgradation of its operations in India.

Whirlpool India's managing director Arvind Uppal said here today the expansion would be carried out in phases over a period of 12-18 months in its three plants, manufacturing direct cool and frost free refrigerators and washing machines.

The company sources microwaves from its China plant and air-conditioners are supplied through global tie-ups.

Exports contributed around 10-12 per cent of the Whirpool India's turnover of Rs 969.3 crore during April to December 2005, Uppal said.

The company exports coffee mixers and grinders to American countries under the Kitchenaid brand. Refrigerators are exported to south east Asian countries.

''We are looking at markets in the Middle East and Africa for further growth,'' he said.

Uppal today launched ''Fusion'' and ''Delight'' refrigerators (Rs 10,700 to Rs 19,500), ''Jetchef'' microwaves (Rs 15,000 to Rs 18,000) and ''White Magic Splash'' washing machines (Rs 10,940).

He said the company intends to notch up 26 per cent market share in the refrigerator category, 10 per cent in the microwave and 16 per cent in the washing machine category with the new launches in 2006.

The company has earmarked expenditure of Rs 44 crores for advertising and marketing of its new products.

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