Titan converts Helios into a separate business unit

Titan has converted its third-party premium watch retailing

arm Helios into a separate business unit as it builds an aggressive retail expansion strategy for the brand. The company plans to increase Helios store count to 50, double of its present number. Helios portfolio consists of a collection of around 40 global premium and luxury lifestyle watches like Tommy Hilfiger, Tag Heuer, Pierre Cardin, Emporio Armani, DKNY, Fossil, FCUK and Esprit. The company is also looking at bringing more international labels under its fold.

Helios is tracking a top line of around Rs 100 crores and is growing at about 25 per cent on a yearly basis. After deciding to sell off Swiss watch brand Favre-Leuba recently, to focus on their own Swiss label, Xylys which will help them grow in the lucrative premium segment. Titan is also targeting to be a complete lifestyle accessories label. Titan’s Fastrack has already entered into bags, belts, wallets segment and is looking to enter motorcycle helmets apart from adding newer categories such as fashion footwear.

Titan is also said to be in final stages of acquisition of Canada-based luxury watches and jewellery retailer Harry Winston at an estimated deal of $1 billion (above Rs 5,500 crores), though Titan has denied being into any such deal with Harry Winston.