SMC believes in research-oriented biz!

How has been the recession period for SMC Networks?

The IT sector was one of the segments which was majorly hit during the recession. In particular about SMC Networks, we had to cut down on budgets. Also, new projects and launches were put on hold because of the uncertainty in the market. But still we did manage to maintain a balance in terms of sales gaining very minimal profits.

What major initiatives you have designed to combat such situations in future?

As of now, it is better to wait and understand that the recovery is real and will sustain. We need to be sagacious and cautious in future. For us it is time to pause, reflect and realign our strategies. For the sake of sustainability, we need to adapt to the changing market scenarios quickly. The trick is to innovate - not necessarily do different things, but do things differently. In that regard, the focus has to be on innovation. 

Do you see the Indian SMB segment reviving?

The direct impact of recession on the SMB segment and its partners globally, including India, is a well-known fact, but there is a silver lining as signs of revival have started appearing on the horizon. After almost a year of uncertainty, the SMB segment seems to be on the rise again. Market opportunities have increased due to the clinching of deals that were earlier stuck up due to delayed decisions. Also this year, a good number of projects are under execution with budgets involving more and more funds.

How is your security and surveillance division doing?

Our security and surveillance division is doing well. We are focussing on new products in the segment in the coming months.

What kind of growth expectations you have?

Keeping the upwardly mobile market trends in view, we have increased our advertising and PR spends. We are hoping at least 10 -15% increase in sales. Going by the past quarter, I am also expecting a decent 8-10% increase in profits.

What new strategies have you come up to strengthen your channel sentiments?

We keep our channel partners well-informed about the latest techniques through sales kits and mailers. SMC has designed special training sessions to ensure that the channels have knowledge on fast-changing technologies, latest technology developments and trends. We have also started conducting road shows, seminars and workshops for training our partners. We ensure healthy margins and also introduce new products and newer applications to increase the scope of growth for our channels. We also provide new products and solutions to enable the channel to add value and hence can expect more margins from the customers.

For more contact :
beenish@varindia.com