Retail talk

THE GLASS HEAVYWEIGHT SAINT GOBAIN HAS MADE INROADS INTO THE RETAIL SEGMENT, MUCH TO THE CHEER OF TODAY'S DISCERNING CONSUMERS.

Saint Gobain's foray into the retail segment with MyHome has been a very well thought out move, considering there is exponential growth estimated in the coming financial years for the housing market, both in the affordable and luxury segments. MyHome has the vision to extend Saint-Gobain's resources by providing all housing solutions under one roof. With sustainability at the forefront of all global businesses, sustainable homes are also the future, and MyHome is investing in bringing the future to consumers. Early April, Saint Gobain expanded its float glass facility at Sriperumbudur near Chennai and also inaugurated the windows line facility at the hands of the Tamil Nadu CM, M.K. Stalin.

Interestingly, MyHome is the perfect extension of the global brand's offering to provide customised solutions in the windows, shower cubicles, gypsum, and roofing segments. Saint-Gobain aims at a retail expansion across India by opening 40 stores and investing more than Rs 2,500 crores by FY24.

We speak to Hemant Khurana, Executive Director (Homes & Hospitality Business), Saint-Gobain India Private Limited, about the brand’s plans and offerings.

Saint Gobain is synonymous with glass and one of the market leaders when it comes to building materials in the country. Yet, you decided to venture into the retail segment and are doing pretty well. How did the idea come about?