Amara Raja to open 2000 'Power Zone' outlets

Chennai, May 7: Leading Industrial and Automotive battery manufacturer Amara Raja Batteries today chalked out a major plan to open 2000 retail outlets across the country to sell its 'Power Zone' range of batteries.

The company had earmarked Rs five lakh for each unit, which aims to offer quality automotive and power-related products for the rural households and shops.

Talking to newspersons here, the company Managing Director Jay Galla said "the first 'Power Zone' store was inaugurated at Chengalpet district of the state today, which is one-stop shop, offering a platter of products of global quality at local prices, right from automotive batteries, tractor battries and home UPS from the house of Amara Raja".

"The company will be leveraging its expertise in lean management techniques, efficient network building and product innovation to bring in economies for this venture", he added.

"About 50 'Power Zone' stores will be opened during this month across south, north and west India", he said adding "the number will reach 500 stores by the next fiscal".

"During the next two years, we have planned to open 2000 such outlets across the country", he pointed out.

Mr Gala said "our target is to have atleast one 'Power Zone' outlet in every taluk head-quarters in the country in the next two years.

He underlined that all the 'Power Zone' stores will be connected through an information backbone to the central hub, for efficient sales planning, management and stocking.

The company was expected to produce more than two lakh 'Power Range' battries, he claimed adding we have an ambitious target to generate revenue for Rs 50 crore from this venture.

The business model of 'Power Zone' has in-built social responsibility components, which result in two direct benefits in the local community, he said adding one 'Power Zone' brings a new self- employment opportunity to the rural educated youth, who are constantly seeking better opportunities outside.

He said "our franchisee model nurtures and supports entrepreneurial spirit to develop a vibrant business and non-migratory job opportunities.

UNI