I have been associated with the hardware industry since 1986 and decided to add kitchen accessories to my business only in 2000. It was a natural diversification, for the hardware manufacturers themselves started manufacturing kitchen accessories. We had our manufacturing set up, but with the onslaught of Chinese products it became tough for us to sustain, and we decided to focus on retailing. Hardware Corner‘s showroom in Chennai is spread across 1,000 sft, and deals in hardware and kitchen accessories from leading players such as Hettich, Ebco, Godrej, Dorset, etc.
While I foresee a great potential in the modular kitchen industry owing to the recent growth trends in real estate market, the rise of millennials, increasing disposable income, etc., I, for now, am not getting into the business. I am short of hands – it’s only my wife and me; so much so that I do not plan to open another showroom.
For retailers wanting to get into the modular kitchen business, my advice is partner with a leading global brand. The initial training – product, technology, design, sales and marketing – can be acquired gained here. Retailers wanting to diversify into modular kitchens by setting up one’s brand will find that it’s not an easy task.
