WAL-MART India works with small local suppliers for private label

Planet Retail 9 Feb 2010

Wal-Mart's Indian operation, Bharti Wal-Mart, is working with 116 private label suppliers in India, focusing on small local suppliers. In an interview with Images Retail, Bharti Wal-Mart Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Arti Singh, said: "In India, we are working with about 116 private brand suppliers, 70% of whom are SMEs. We are a strong supporter of SMEs as a sustainable business model and this is in keeping with our philosophy of 'Saving Money to Live Better'."

Singh clarified reports which said that it is facing opposition against registering trademarks for its private label brands. "Our trademark names have been arrived at after extensive market research and customer preference. As such, we have developed all our products keeping in mind the needs and preferences of the consumers in India. For example, Astitva is the brand name for our Indian ethnic products. It is a brand which helps Indian consumers connect with rich traditions and cultures across India. The product range, as a matter of fact, has been well-received by the customers," he said.

Copyright www.planetretail.net