JMATEK is renowned around the world for our expertise and innovation in cooling technology and engineering- Naresh Kumra Managing Director & CEO

In an exclusive interview with ITVoice, Mr.Naresh Kumra Managing Director & CEO, JMATEK– India, reveals his strategies for business in India..

Naresh Kumra
Managing Director & CEO

Vikas Gupta:- When was JMATEK and Airtek launched in India?

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- JMATEK, founded in Hong Kong in 1928, is the parent company of Airtek International. Airtek was established in 2004 and recently launched in India in March 2016.

Vikas Gupta:- How many products you have under JMATEK?

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- JMATEK holds an exclusive Honeywell global brand license. Under this partnership with Honeywell, JMATEK has launched over 30 models since 2009. In its inaugural year, Airtek India unveiled 3 air cooler models in the market. 

Vikas Gupta:- What is your USP of our brand over competitors?

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- JMATEK is renowned around the world for our expertise and innovation in cooling technology and engineering. We pride ourselves on offering customers durable, reliable products as well as a commitment to achieving the very best in terms of modern design and aesthetics. 

Vikas Gupta:- What are your future plans for India?

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- JMATEK has launched its Airtek brand in India this year and has already established its presence as a leader in the portable air cooler segment. This is a part of a multi-year roll out plan that will see over a Rs.100 crore invested in expanding our Indian operations.

Vikas Gupta:- Which cities in India are you currently present in?

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- We are currently present exclusively in North India, which includes New Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and parts of Uttar Pradesh.

Vikas Gupta:- In which cities do you want to expand your footprint?

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- We will gradually expand our footprint nationwide over the next five years.

Vikas Gupta:- What is your service strategy for India?

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- We have partnered with Serviceman to provide 24-hour support to customers for any technical support, troubleshooting, maintenance, and repairs.

Vikas Gupta:- Do you plan to enhance your distribution channels through Usha group or other platforms too? Have you tied up with any retail channels?

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- No, Airtek India will exist independently of Usha Group and JMATEK will develop the distribution network and retail relationships in-house.

Vikas Gupta:- What are the revenue concentrations a) Geographical b) Segments c) Products?

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- Initially in Phase 1, over 20 countries with significant potential for products we plan to produce in India. Many of these countries are in geographic proximity (such as South and Southeast Asia, Central Asia, Middle East, North Africa); while others have large potential for these products (such as South and Southwest USA, Northern Mexico).

Vikas Gupta:- How many manufacturing units do you have in India? Are the units being manufactured or assembled in India?

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- As you know, in free market economics, ultimately the consumers decide.  Exported quantities will eventually depend on how the products exported from India are liked by our target export markets.  Our aspiration is to export 100-200 Thousand units over the next 3 years. At present we have one unit in NCR & we will make 2 more in India.

Vikas Gupta:- What are your marketing/ advertising plans in metros and rural areas? Have you planned any online strategy for the same?

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- Our apologies… but we don’t disclose the details due to confidentiality reasons.

Vikas Gupta:- Which are the product launches expected in next 12 months?

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- Over the coming year, we plan to launch a complete range of air coolers to complement our existing models. We also plan to introduce new models of portable air conditioners and air purifiers to the market.

Vikas Gupta:- What is your business vision for the long run including long-term corporate goals?

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- We strongly believe that success is backed by a strong team. Talent wins games, but teams win championships.

Vikas Gupta:- How would you like the world to know you in a single phrase or in a single word?

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- Innovators in air cooling products.

Vikas Gupta:- Are you bullish about tier 2 & tier 3 cities in India.

Mr. Naresh Kumra:- Extremely bullish.  While Large Metros in India are exploding with population growth, India still largely lives in smaller cities, towns and villages.  Our Air Coolers are very energy-efficient and offer a superior alternative for cooling during the summer.  We are also working on new products that could be particularly attractive to consumers in smaller cities and towns.  We will share more at the right time.