Dabur India Unveils Strategic Roadmap for its Retail Venture

Dabur India Ltd on March 13, 2007 has announced plans to enter the high-growth organized retail market in India. The Board of Directors of the Company has approved its entry into the organized retail market in India through a wholly-owned subsidiary, H&B Stores Ltd (under incorporation).

The Board of Directors of the Company also announced an interim dividend of 75% for 2006-07, on the enhanced capital (post-Bonus issue). With this, the Company has announced a total dividend of 213% for the 2006-07 fiscal on pre-Bonus capital.

The Company will invest Rs 140 crores by 2010 to establish its presence in the retail market in India with a chain of stores on the Health & Beauty format. As part of its plans to provide a world-class retailing experience to consumers across India, The Company plans to establish stores ranging from 1,500 sq ft to 6,000 sq ft in size, offering international quality store environment and product range.

Three senior professionals and experts from the global retail industry have been roped in to drive the Company's retail foray. These expatriates have retail experience of more than 25 years each, encompassing merchandising, store design and sourcing.

Mr. V C Burman, Chairman, of the Company said, "Retail is the next big focus area for Dabur India. H&B Stores Ltd plans to set up 350 retail stores across India in 5 years and expand it to over 1,000 stores by its 10th year of operation."

This venture is also synergistic with the Company's current portfolio of Ayurvedic & Herbal products and would add significantly to the Company's distribution footprint.

Source : Equity Bulls

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