We Intend To Establish Strong Local Partnerships And Collaborations In India And Key Export Markets.

Rishabh Agarwal, Chairman, Responsive Industries

How is the market for vinyl flooring evolving in India? What are the demand trends?

The market for vinyl flooring in India has been witnessing significant growth and evolving trends. With increasing urbanisation and a growing focus on interior aesthetics, there has been a rising demand for vinyl flooring products. Consumers appreciate vinyl flooring for its durability, cost-effectiveness, and the variety of designs it offers. The ease of maintenance and resistance to moisture make it a popular choice, particularly in regions prone to humid weather.

In recent years, we have observed a shift toward luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and other premium vinyl flooring options as consumers seek higher-end, aesthetically pleasing solutions for their homes and commercial spaces. Moreover, sustainability and eco-friendly choices have become influential factors, leading to the development of eco-conscious vinyl flooring options.

How are the company and brand consolidating its presence in the Indian market? How positive are you about the market opportunities?

Responsive Industries has been consolidating its presence in the Indian market through a multi-faceted approach. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction is at the core of our strategy. We have been continuously expanding our product portfolio to cater to diverse customer needs and preferences. This includes offering a comprehensive range of flooring products, all under one roof, to provide customers with a wide selection.

In addition to product diversification, we have been focusing on branding and brand-building exercises to strengthen our position in the Indian market. This includes implementing fresh sales and marketing strategies that are designed to resonate with the evolving expectations and preferences of Indian consumers. We are also driving a transformation in our organisational culture to foster innovation and customer-centricity.

Our optimism about market opportunities is grounded in the growing demand for quality flooring solutions in India. As more consumers and businesses seek durable, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable flooring options, Responsive Industries is well-positioned to address these needs. We are attentive to market dynamics and are committed to adapting to emerging opportunities as they arise. We believe that the Indian market holds significant potential, and we are enthusiastic about our ability to capture a substantial share of this growing demand.

What are the major challenges faced by the company in its journey in the Indian market?

Responsive Industries has encountered various challenges on its journey in the Indian market, including intense competition from both domestic and international players, navigating complex regulatory and compliance issues, economic factors like inflation and exchange rate fluctuations, and addressing infrastructure and logistics concerns. Adapting to evolving consumer preferences and managing raw material costs, particularly for PVC in vinyl flooring production, has also been pivotal. Furthermore, the company has recognised the importance of sustainability and environmental concerns, necessitating a shift towards eco-friendly and sustainable product offerings in response to these market challenges.

Can you shed some light on the new products and solutions for the Indian market?

Responsive Industries has expanded its product line with two outstanding flooring solutions. They have introduced SPC Coastal hard engineered planks, featuring 11 captivating hues, perfect for high-traffic areas with exceptional anti-slip properties and minimal maintenance requirements. This provides a long-lasting, low-maintenance flooring solution for residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces.

In addition to the Coastal planks, Responsive Industries proudly presents Opulence luxury vinyl tiles, combining elegance and durability seamlessly. Opulence boasts rich wooden hues, underfoot comfort, and exceptional durability, making it the ideal choice for homes with active lifestyles, all while being easy to maintain. With a palette of 12 colours to choose from, Opulence adds a touch of timeless elegance to both residential and commercial spaces, ensuring that you can enjoy both beauty and practicality in your flooring choices.

What is your industry outlook for the coming years? What will be trending in the flooring segment?

LVT will continue to flourish due to its affordability and versatility. There will be a heightened demand for personalisation and customisation, catering to consumers in search of distinctive flooring designs. There will also be a growing emphasis on health and wellness, with antimicrobial and easy-to-clean flooring options becoming indispensable.

What is your business expansion plans for India and the export market?

Our business expansion plans for India and the export market involve thorough market research to grasp the unique dynamics of each target market, including demographics and demand analysis. We carefully evaluate our existing business operations to determine if they can be replicated or adjusted to facilitate expansion, all while crafting comprehensive marketing strategies to effectively reach and engage with the new audience. We also prioritise the establishment of a robust logistical supply chain to guarantee seamless delivery, ensuring a successful and efficient expansion into these markets.

We intend to establish strong local partnerships and collaborations in India and key export markets to gain a deeper understanding of the local business environment and regulations. We recognise the importance of adapting our products and services to meet the specific needs and preferences of each region, ensuring that we provide value and relevance to the local customer base. We aim to remain agile and flexible in our approach, allowing us to pivot our strategies as needed to respond to changing market dynamics and emerging opportunities. Our commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices will also be a cornerstone of our expansion, aligning with local and global environmental and social goals. Overall, our expansion strategy aims to be comprehensive, adaptive, and mindful of the unique characteristics of each market while prioritising long-term success and growth.