The Goan: Can you briefly inform about Anand Trading Corporation?
Joseph Rodrigues: Anand Trading Corporation has been running business for the last 25 years with its head office in Pune (Maharashtra). This is the first branch in Margao. We have two other branches in Goa, one in Porvorim and another in Vasco.
TG: What is Anand Trading Corporation's Margao branch all about?
JR: This is a one-stop tyre shop providing solutions to all tyre-related problems, including wheel-alignment, balancing and puncture removal. It is a Continental Premium Drive Brand Store/Image Shop.
TG: What is the range of tyres available at this store?
JR: The range includes tyres for all passenger vehicles and SUVs. We have tyres for the premium segment as well as for all market sections.
TG: What is your target market?
JR: We have tyres for all vehicles in the above category. It includes normal, luxury, as Continental is an imported premium brand and can cater to all segments of the market.
TG: How do you view competition in this segment of business, particularly in view of the umpteen stores offering all tyre-related services in Margao?
JR: This company offers German technology and customers nowadays look at safety and comfort. Continental brand is associated with imported luxury vehicles. We offer the entire range of services and look forward to cater to all segments.
TG: What is the break-even point this store is looking at?
JR: We need two years to break-even.
TG: The two-wheeler auto industry is witnessing rapid growth in Goa. Do you feel that the absence of this company's products in this segment will hurt its bottomline in Goa?
JR: The decision to enter any segment is done as per the feasibility study. This company operates in different segments in the passenger vehicle industry and manufactures everything apart from seat covers of vehicles.
TG: Your view on the market's future?
JR: It's an evolving market. External environment will also decide how the market shapes up. Continental has been in India since the year 2008, almost for nine years. We will accordingly define which areas to enter, while not ignoring areas like the upcoming markets. It will basically be a dual strategy.
Whatever the competition, there is scope for business: Joseph
Given the proliferation of stores catering to the galloping vehicle population in the State, Anand Trading Corporation’s Continental Premium Drive Brand Store/Image Shop at Pajifond, Margao has its task cut out. Its managing partner, Joseph Rodrigues, defines the store’s role in the cut throat world of competition in an interview with THE GOAN.
