Time for Rhythm and ITL Group to eye India

Dubai: As far as relationships go, this one's been ticking along nicely for 50 years. So much so, the partners are now looking at extending their association to new markets.

The Japanese manufacturer of clocks, Rhythm, and its longstanding Dubai-based partner ITL Group, could be getting into India together. "We are seriously considering such an outcome as Rhythm's current presence in the Indian market is not too well organised," said Ram Buxani, president of Cosmos ITL Group.

While the initial plan is to have a distribution arrangement for India, run through a joint venture. At a later date it could even be extended into actual assembly of the timepieces, Buxani added.

The ITL Group has been representing Rhythm in the local market for 50 years now. During this time it has also been successfully distributing the brand in other regional markets and in Africa.

"Apart from a possible entry into India, the likes of Iraq also represent opportunities for both of us," said Buxani. "There are quite a few emerging markets with similar potential for brand building."

Firmly entrenched

Rhythm is one of a handful of clock brands still ticking away after consumer preferences shifted dramatically from that format.

"Some of the big European brands have already exited and there are some other brands whose prospects do not look too rosy when it comes to sustaining their presence in the market," said Buxani.

"However, Rhythm remains firmly entrenched and is going places. Where new markets are concerned, we hope to do it together."