Just I to explore untapped territories and exports

Terming last season as very disturbing, Arvind Gupta, Director, Ahan Apparel says, “If you look at the overall picture, I see 2013 as a very drastic and volatile year in terms of business. There was cyclone in the east and coastal zone. Then there were heavy rains during Durga Puja. Customers

were not in a mood to buy. I expect a mixed trend in summer bookings.”

However, despite the odds the company expects to register 30-35 percent year-on-year growth and though it is not looking at introducing new products, the focus would be on consolidating bottom lines while expanding retail reach.

Expanding

retail footprint

Just I product range is sold through 50 EBOs and 350 MBOs in the country. It enjoys a strong presence in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat. “In Madhya Pradesh, we were present in EBOs and have started our MBO network as well. We have just started test marketing with 5-6 dealers. Our brand is now preparing to enter large formats like Shoppers Stop, Reliance Trends and Lifestyle,” opines Gupta.

The company also has plans to open more EBOs post March 2014. “We will target opening 2-3 EBOs in Rajasthan, 2-3 in Karnataka and the same number in Kerala. We have to concentrate on south as it is a virgin market for Just I. We want to increase our MBO network and wish to take the count to at least 500 in the next 12-15 months. We are looking at expansion in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu,” Gupta elaborates.

Just I is looking at exploring exports seriously by the next fiscal. As far as e-commerce is concerned, the company would either launch its own website or tie up with a third party channel in the next 6-7 months.

Product portfolio of Just I

The promoters of the brand have been in the industry for the last 20 years. Ahan Apparel was formed in 2003 to consolidate textiles and garments under one umbrella with a handful of highly qualified, motivated and talented individuals. ‘Just I’ was launched in 2008. The company foresees a huge potential with value for money concept.

The product portfolio includes men’s casuals including shirts, tees, jeans, corduroys and accessories. For Spring/Summer 2014, the focus is on value for money concepts. In denim, it is the usual fashion concept which is evergreen. Some neon colours have been added, which are just an attraction point. “In denim, we are giving slim and narrow fits. Cross pockets are in trend. Denims are still popular in blue with a clean look. In casual trousers, earthy tones are in,” explains Gupta.