RS India Celebrates 30 Years Of Excellence And Innovation

RS, a trading brand of RS Group plc (LSE: RS1), a global provider of product and service solutions for industrial customers, proudly marks its 30th anniversary in India, celebrating three decades of excellence, innovation, and commitment in the country. Since its inception in March 1994 with a modest team of eight, RS India has grown into a leading distributor in the industrial sector, with a robust team of 125 professionals and ambitious plans for further expansion. 

Over the years, the company has seen remarkable growth, expanding from an initial annual revenue of INR 1.02 crore in 1994-95 to an impressive INR 125 crore in 2024. This success reflects its unwavering commitment to providing high-quality electronic and industrial components, solidifying its position as the preferred choice for numerous businesses across the nation.

Shiv Bhambri, CEO at RS India, reflecting on his 20-year tenure, said, "RS India has been a key player in reshaping the industrial landscape over the past 30 years. We've transitioned from traditional offline purchases to implementing global procurement strategies like vendor consolidation and B2B eCommerce. Our commitment to supporting the academic community, especially during COVID-19, highlights our dedication to making a positive impact."

RS India is deeply committed to sustainability and social responsibility. Our purpose of making amazing happen for a better world reflects our focus on delivering results for people, planet, and profit. Our 2030 ESG action plan, 'For a Better World', is designed to deliver long-term value for all our stakeholders. This commitment has earned RS a place among the Top 100 ESG companies worldwide. We also engage in student projects at various engineering colleges & universities including the IIT’s and CSR activities, highlighting our dedication to educational growth and community development.

Keith Rice, Vice President RS Emerging Markets, RS Group said, "As we celebrate this milestone, we extend our gratitude to our customers, partners, and employees for their continued support. Our focus remains on driving Continuous Improvement (CI) and enhancing customer satisfaction, demonstrated by our improved Net Promoter Score (NPS). We are equally committed to sustainability, with green initiatives across the supply chain reinforcing our goal to make a positive impact. We eagerly anticipate a future filled with further innovation and success."

As we enter the next phase of growth, our commitment is to double the customer base, support the Make in India initiative, drive innovation in industrial procurement, and promote inclusivity and diversity. By embracing new technologies such as Big Data, AI, Blockchain, and System Architecture, our aim is to remain at the forefront of the industry. The goal is to integrate ESG objectives with supply chain optimization, utilizing AI and digitalization to streamline and standardize sustainability practices.

RS India continues to evolve with the launch of the RS Mobile App, the cutting-edge tool is designed to streamline operations for businesses exporting goods from the UK around the world, offering instant access to a vast catalogue of over 750,000 electronic, electrical, mechanical, test & measurement and PPE products. With real-time stock and price information, the newly launched RS Mobile app embodies our ongoing commitment to efficiency, customer satisfaction, and technological advancement.

As we look to the future, the vision is to continue its double-digit growth through digital transformation in the B2B industrial space while ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction.

About RS:

RS Group plc is a digitally enabled global distributor of product and service solutions for industrial customers. We help 1.1 million customers across the world satisfy their maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) needs, safely and sustainably. We stock more than 750,000 industrial and associated electronic products, sourced from over 2,500 leading suppliers, enhancing customer experience, driving operational excellence and simplifying the supply chain at every step.

Through our great people and increased use of technology, we provide industrial MRO solutions that seamlessly combine services, products and digital – essential for the successful running of our customers’ businesses. Operating sustainably through efficient, physical processes and digital infrastructure, the way we support our customers forms part of our ongoing purpose to make amazing happen for a better world.

RS Group plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange with stock ticker RS1 and in the year ended 31 March 2024 reported revenue of £2,942 million.

Yamaha Unveils Exclusive 2024 MotoGP Editions Of R15M And MT-15 Version 2.0

As As a part of its thrilling ‘The Call of the Blue’ brand campaign, India Yamaha Motor Pvt. Ltd. today introduced the 2024 Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Edition models that include the SuperSport R15M and the hyper-naked MT-15 Version 2.0. The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Edition model range will be available exclusively at the Blue Square Showrooms across the country.

The latest Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Edition of the R15M and MT-15 Version 2.0 showcases the rousing MotoGP livery on the tank shrouds, the fuel tank and side panels, outlining its Racing DNA and racing legacy. These special edition models, replete with their thoroughbred decals, deliver powerful performance from their 155cc fuel-injected, liquid cooled engines that produce a maximum torque of 14.2N and a maximum power of 13.5 kW.

While the R15M is engineered with an unwavering track-oriented design, the hyper-naked MT-15 Version 2.0 flaunts agility and is ideal street motorcycle. Parallelly, both the motorcycles offer powerful performance, all thanks to its Fuel-injected 155cc engine, along with the unique technologies such as Traction Control System, Assist and Slipper Clutch, Variable Valve Actuation (VVA), Telescopic Upside-Down Fork (USD Fork) in Front Suspension and Linked-Type Monocross Suspension at the rear, and Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, the R15M offers Quick Shifter, fully digital colour TFT screen, Turn-by-Turn Navigation, Music & Volume control, upgraded switchgear and LED license plate light to the riders.

These 2024 Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP limited editions of the R15M and the MT-15 Version 2.0 will appeal to riders who are looking to covet their own unique premium motorcycles with genuine racing livery and segment-leading performance.

Renault India Unveils The Night & Day Limited Edition Of Its Popular Models – Kiger, Triber, And Kwid

Adding a sophisticated flair to the festive season Renault India is excited to unveil the Night & Day Limited Edition of its popular models – Kiger, Triber, and Kwid. With a focus on stylish design and modern features, this limited edition brings together elegance and innovation for the discerning, new-age customer.

The Night & Day Limited Edition introduces an exclusive Pearl White with mystery black roof dual tone body colour across the three models, offering an elevated look that blends urban-friendly design with a bold statement on the road. The Night & Day limited edition :

Key Highlights of the Night & Day Limited Edition:

Based on the RXL variant of Triber, Kiger & RXL(O) variant on Kwid aimed towards offering the best value to the customers

First in segment pearl white dualtone exterior body theme in lower variants bringing stylish design on the lower variants

Exterior Enhancements include piano black wheel covers, piano black grille Inserts, piano black model nameplate, piano black ORVMs on kiger & triber, piano black tailgate garnish on Kiger

Modern features on Kiger & Triber Night & Day limited edition including 9inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone replication & rear view camera. 

Additional feature addition includes rear power windows on Triber

1,600 units will be available under this limited series for all models together.

Speaking about the launch, Mr. Venkatram Mamillapalle, Country CEO and Managing Director, Renault India, shared, "This is an exciting announcement not only for our new-age customers, but for our dealers & employees as well. The limited edition allows the customers make a bold statement with the Night and Day Limited Edition, where the three cars will be offered in new pearl white with mystery black roof. This reflects our dedication to crafting wow customer-centric experiences. We are confident that this new limited edition will enable us to welcome more customers to our growing Renault family."

The Night & Day Limited Edition are attractively priced with a strong value proposition :

Triber  : INR 7,00,000 ( INR 20K additional on Triber RXL manual)

Kiger    : INR 6,74,990  ( INR 15K additional on Kiger RXL manual)

                  : INR 7,24,990 ( INR 15K additional on Kiger RXL EASY-R AMT)

Kwid   : INR 4,99,500 ( same price as Kwid RXL(O) manual )

Renault India’s product range of KIGER, TRIBER and KWID comes with innovative and advanced safety features as part of the Human First Program which is designed to minimize the risk of accidents and improve overall safety for occupants and pedestrians alike. As part of this program, Renault has upgraded and introduced new and enhanced safety features across all its product range in India, that are designed to minimize the risk of accidents and improve overall safety. Under the Human First Program,

Renault India’s product line-up boasts of innovative and class leading safety features such as Electronic Stability Program (ESP) for enhanced control on curvy roads, catering to both amateur and experienced drivers, Hill Start Assist (HSA) which prevents car roll-back when starting uphill after braking, Traction Control System (TCS) that identifies wheel speed irregularities, automatically reducing spins to maintain grip on slippery surfaces and prevent accidents and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) which provides real-time alerts for under-inflated or punctured tyres in the vehicle. Further enhancing the safety, all variants now feature a rear seatbelt reminder. With more than 15+ safety features as standard, Kiger, Triber and 14+ Safety features standard in Kwid.

Renault India's commitment to delivering exceptional driving experiences is reflected in this pioneering achievement, further solidifying its position as a trailblazer in the automotive industry.

The bookings and retails of the NIGHT & DAY LIMITED EDITION will commence from 17th September 2024 onwards at a Renault authorized dealership. As a limited-edition model, interested customers are encouraged to book early to secure their chance to own this remarkable vehicle.

Honda Cars India Introduces New “Apex Edition Of Honda Elevate” For The Festive Season

Honda Cars India Ltd. (HCIL), a leading premium car manufacturer in India, has introduced the "New Apex Edition" of its popular mid-size SUV, Honda Elevate, during the ongoing festive campaign of The Great Honda Fest. The Apex Edition in limited volumes will be offered in both Manual Transmission (MT) and Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and is based on the V and VX grade of Honda Elevate. Building on the Honda Elevate’s bold design, spacious & comfortable interiors and advanced features, the Apex Edition comes with a new premium package of exterior and interior enhancements and will be offered in all colour options.

Speaking on the Apex Edition of the Honda Elevate; Mr. Kunal Behl, Vice President, Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India Ltd. said, "The Elevate has been instrumental to our success, significantly contributing to our domestic sales and exports. The festive season in India has begun and we are thrilled to introduce the attractively priced new Apex Edition of the Honda Elevate, boasting enhanced interiors for superior cabin experience, combined with new bold exterior elements that elevate its dynamic and stylish appeal. With this new edition, we look forward to welcoming more customers into the Honda family."

Key highlights of Apex Edition

Exterior Enhancements: 

Piano Black Front Under Spoiler with Silver Accent

Piano Black Side Under Spoiler

Piano Black Rear Lower Garnish with Chrome Inserts

Apex Edition Badge on Fenders

Apex Edition Emblem on Tailgate

Interior Enhancements:

Luxurious Dual-tone Ivory and Black Interiors

Premium Leatherette Door Linings

Premium Leatherette IP Panel

Rhythmic Ambient lights – 7 colours

Apex Edition Signature Seat Covers and Cushions  

These enhancements are available as Apex edition package* for Elevate V and VX grades catering to diverse customer preferences and for a limited period.

JSW MG Motor In 4W, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter In 2-W & Ashok Leyland In Commercial Vehicles Capture Pole Positions In DSS 2024

* After Sales and Business Viability remains top-most issues raised by Dealers across all segments

Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), the apex national body of Automobile Retail in India today announced the outcome of Dealer Satisfaction Study 2024 results which was undertaken in association with PremonAsia, a consumer-insight led consulting & advisory firm based out of Singapore.

Commenting on the release of the study, FADA President, Mr. C S Vigneshwar said, “I extend my sincere gratitude to the over 1,500 Dealer Principals, representing nearly 4,500 outlets across India, who contributed to this year’s DSS study. Their invaluable feedback underscores the continued need for deeper collaboration between OEMs and Dealers to address key areas of concern. The 2024 findings highlight critical areas for improvement, particularly in the support for buy-back policies on unsold spare parts and the implementation of more dealer-friendly inventory management norms for new vehicles—both of which are essential to ensuring the financial stability of dealerships.

Despite these challenges, Dealers have expressed strong satisfaction with the reliability and diversity of OEM products, which continue to serve as key strengths in the Dealer-OEM relationship.”

PremonAsia Director and COO, Mr. Rahul Sharma said, “The Dealers continue to assign higher importance to After-sales and Business Viability related issues. While there have been improvements made by OEMs in all the areas, the expectations on ensuring Dealer viability, particularly related to OEMs buyback / deadstock inventory and understanding the dealer cost structure are still flagged as concern areas across the industry. Addressing these concerns through involving dealers in the policy making and hearing them will certainly go a long way in managing dealer expectations better.”

Key Highlights:

4-Wheeler mass market: JSW MG Motor emerges as the top performer with an industry-leading score of 866 points – the highest across segments.

2-Wheeler mass market: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) leads with 805 index points, maintaining its position as the only brand to have consistently held the number one spot since the survey's inception 4 years back.

Commercial Vehicles: Ashok Leyland has surpassed its previous performance to achieve the top rank with 817 index points, while Bharat Benz makes its debut in the top three.

Most significant improvement: Tata Motors PV has improved its last year performance by 98 points in this year’s study to end at number 4 in the 4-Wheeler Mass segment.

In the 2-Wheeler Mass market segment, TVS Motor has secured the joint third position, improving its performance by 37 index points from last year.

Bharat Benz has made its debut in the top three of the CV segments, achieving this milestone with a 94-point increase over its previous year’s performance.

With an Industry Average Dealer Satisfaction score of 768, there has been a single-point increase from last year. 'Product' scores the highest across all categories, indicating that the industry consistently provides competitive, well-supported and innovative products that meet customer expectations. After-Sales related areas assume the highest importance amongst all factors, followed by Sales. However, despite being the most improved factor over the past two years, 'Business and Viability' remains the lowest-scoring factor.

While 4-wheeler mass market dealers are more satisfied compared to last year, Dealer satisfaction in the 2-wheeler and CV segments has declined.

Opportunities for enhancement

Provide support in clearance of above 60 days ageing vehicle stock

Provide support in clearing unsold vehicle stock at change of calendar year

Increase in warranty labour rates for better gross margin in workshops

Segment specific observations

In 4-Wheeler Mass Segment, dealers expressed concerns about the buyback or write-off policy for unsold spare parts inventory and the need for support in covering the carrying costs of stocks in transit. They also highlighted the importance of ensuring dealership viability, overall profitability, and greater involvement in OEM policymaking. However, dealers expressed satisfaction with the OEM’s extended warranty policy, as well as the reliability and range of products offered to customers.

In Commercial Vehicle Segment, dealers emphasized concerns regarding vehicle sales margins, overall dealership profitability, ensuring long-term viability, and a stronger desire for involvement in OEM policymaking. Dealers were quite happy with the overall product range and quality of fully built vehicles, and expressed satisfaction with the responsiveness of the OEM sales team

In 2-Wheeler Segment, the biggest concern which the study highlighted was OEMs were not supportive on buy back of dead stock of parts and they were not open to dealer inputs in terms of policy making and multi-brand outlets point of view. On the positive side, the study found that OEMs were fair in acceptance and rejection of warranty claims, product reliability & range as well as the training program for customer facing team.

Van Heusen Announces Celebrated “Actor- Taapsee Pannu As Its New Brand Ambassador For Women's Fashion”

* Launches new campaign positioned around the thought ‘Lead Every Role'

Van Heusen, India’s leading power dressing brand from Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd., proudly announces its association with the exceptionally talented and versatile actress, Taapsee Pannu, as its new brand ambassador.

Van Heusen is a brand for the doers who are bringing about impactful change in modern India. The brand constantly endeavours to offer consumers the best of fashion and functionality. Taapsee is a leading actress who has created an impact through her movies. She represents the modern woman of today who is purposive, confident, powerful, and always on the go.

Van Heusen’s product portfolio is designed to be a catalyst in the dynamic lifestyle of the woman of today. The brand offers fashion choices and products across occasions, right from formals, casuals, travel, and evening, and thus enables women to create an impact in every role. Through this association, Van Heusen’s versatility is complemented by the multi-faceted personality of Taapsee, who has had extremely versatile roles in her career and personally, as she constantly aspires to excel in different things.

The “Lead Every Role” campaign by Van Heusen is a perfect showcase of Van Heusen’s versatile modern fashion and Taapsee’s impactful personality. The campaign will be featured prominently across leading digital platforms.

Commenting on this association, Mr. Abhay Bahugune, Chief Operating Officer, Van Heusen, stated, “We are committed to being the force multiplier for modern, discerning women. We are excited to have Taapsee on board as she truly represents the ambitious and relentless woman of today. Taapsee is a seamless fit for Van Heusen as she has a confident personality and a strong personal mission, much like many of Van Heusen's women customers. This is a great leap for the brand to be able to live up to the mantle of being India’s leading western wear brand for women.”

Commenting on her association with Van Heusen, Taapsee Pannu said, “I’m extremely happy and thrilled to be the new face of Van Heusen because I feel this brand truly represents today’s modern Indian woman who is ambitious and self-made. Van Heusen has versatile and fashionable offerings, and I am super glad to be part of the Lead Every Role campaign, as this concept is extremely close to my heart.”

Van Heusen’s focus on womenswear is only getting bigger, with a presence in over 150+ Van Heusen stores across the country, availability in leading departmental stores like Lifestyle, Shoppers Stop, Pantaloons, and Centro, across leading online marketplaces like Amazon, Myntra, and more, as well as Van Heusen’s exclusive website and app.

Link to the campaign: https://youtu.be/bJmsE-F6_64

Harmonising Processes With Design Excellence. BMW Group Debuts Retail.NEXT In India

Bird Automotive introduces Retail.NEXT facility in Gurugram.

New Design, New Digital Tools, New Roles, and New Processes.

BMW, MINI, and BMW Motorrad products under one roof.

Transforming experiences with the customer and brand at the center stage.

Investment of INR 365.6 crores across the country in 33 cities over 36 months.

#Retail.NEXT #BMW #MINI #BMWMotorrad #ChangeTheGame

BMW Group India announces the introduction of Retail.NEXT dealerships in India. Retail.NEXT will feature reimagined services and facilities curated to offer excellence and cater to modern requirements. Retail.NEXT will be implemented across 56 facilities in 33 cities over 36 months.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President and Chief Executive Officer, BMW Group India said, "At BMW Group India, we are changing the game by redefining the luxury experience. With the introduction of Retail.NEXT, we aren't just elevating experiences; we are transforming them. Every visit to a BMW dealership is more than just a step into a unique world; it's an immersion into a space where modernity, progress, and true luxury converge seamlessly. Retail.NEXT dealerships are designed to revolutionize customer engagement by integrating 'phygital' innovations, where the physical meets the digital in environments that are as aesthetically stunning as they are forward-thinking. This initiative marks the beginning of a countrywide roll-out as we expand our vision of an immersive luxury experience in India. We greatly appreciate our dealer partners for their unwavering dedication towards BMW Group and significant investment spanning over the period of 3 years for implementing Retail.NEXT in India."

Retail.NEXT will redefine the automotive retail experience in the luxury automotive segment. It reinforces a seamless experience for everyone, regardless of their sales or service needs. It blends digital innovation with personalized service, offering a dynamic and engaging environment. The layout features open spaces with minimalist design elements, allowing for an intuitive flow through the showroom. High-tech digital interfaces are integrated throughout the facility, enabling prospects to explore vehicle features, customize their preferences, and receive tailored recommendations.

Additionally, the design incorporates exclusive areas for private consultations and vehicle handovers, ensuring that every interaction is as personalized and memorable as possible. With Retail.NEXT, BMW Group India aims to create a future-forward retail space that not only showcases its vehicles but also embodies the brand’s commitment to luxury, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

Retail.NEXT puts visitors and the vehicles at centre stage along the ‘Central Customer Walkway’. The ‘one floor’ and ‘one ceiling’ bring BMW, MINI, and BMW Motorrad, Sales and Service, New and BMW Premium Selection (BPS) - pre-owned cars all present on one consistent flooring with no separation between business areas. A dedicated single entry for sales and service ensures a clear entry point, making it easier to navigate the dealership seamlessly to address sales or service queries.

Visitors entering the showroom receive a personal and warm welcome at the Welcome Stand instead of a traditional reception counter, thus reducing the physical barrier between them and dealership staff. The Multifunction Counter acts as a secondary interactive spot in addition to welcome stands and can be used for Parts & Accessories sales or as a cashier desk for new or pre-owned car sales. The Central Customer Walkway helps visitors navigate the showroom through an impressive array of premium luxury vehicles. The Central Customer Hospitality area – The BMW Bar & Lounge in the center provides a perfect area to relax and grab a drink during the visit. Retail.NEXT integrates Parts & Accessories and Lifestyle collection in the showroom and is now placed close to the Central Hospitality. Additionally, a fully accessorized highlight car creates a ‘Wow-Effect’ at the dealership.

The Customer Consultation Stages are located strategically throughout the showroom. The service consultation takes place where the client wants it and what fits the situation. The unique living room atmosphere and the cozy positioning of the seating close to cars creates a relaxed environment for consultation. Personal Service Advisor (PSA) and BMW Geniuses are equipped with innovative digital sales tools to provide comprehensive information on product features and services.

The Sales and Service Consultancy Lounges offer dedicated areas for situations that require a higher degree of privacy for discussion on different aspects such as financing, leasing, aftersales service, etc.

The Multifunctional Handover Bay is dedicated to all handover processes for new cars, pre-owned cars, and is also an ideal starting point for test drives. Its relaxed lounge atmosphere is designed to make new car deliveries a memorable experience.

The back-office setup provides the dealership staff a dedicated space for effectively carrying out the administrative work and phone calls.

Additionally, the Retail.NEXT showroom is a perfect orchestration of various measures such as lighting, sound, temperature, product staging, and décor. Different lighting experiences and décor elements create a cozy homely atmosphere across all touchpoints such as furniture, cars, etc.

Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) users can also look forward to AC/DC Fast-Charging facilities for charging their electric vehicles (EVs) at the dealership.

The dealership will be able to display an extensive range of BMW M, BMW i, and BMW Motorrad models, as well as vehicles from the MINI and BPS portfolios.

Bird Automotive Retail.NEXT Showroom, Gurugram

BMW Group India announced the launch of Bird Automotive’s Retail.NEXT showroom in Gurugram. The showroom is located at Address one, Baani, Golf Course Road, Sector - 56, Gurgaon, Haryana, India - 122011.

The dealership is headed by Mr. Gaurav Bhatia, Dealer Principal, Bird Automotive. Bird Automotive also represents BMW Group India with sales and service facilities for BMW and MINI in Dehradun, Gurgaon and Delhi.

Mr. Gaurav Bhatia, Dealer Principal, Bird Automotive said, “Our partnership with BMW Group India has grown and flourished over the years, a journey we take immense pride in. The remarkable growth we have witnessed in the Gurugram region stands as a testament to our shared vision and commitment. Today, as we inaugurate the first Retail.NEXT dealership in Gurugram, we are not just opening a new chapter in our success story, but also setting new benchmarks in luxury automotive retailing. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to BMW Group India for entrusting us with this groundbreaking opportunity. Together, we are poised to redefine the luxury car buying experience, promising unparalleled service and unforgettable experiences for BMW customers in the region."

The facility is spread over 8,690 sq.ft. and showcases BMW and MINI cars on ground and first floor respectively. The ultra-modern showroom elegantly showcases a selection of 10 vehicles, including 8 BMWs and 2 MINIs. A dedicated vehicle handover lounge is thoughtfully designed to ensure each customer’s car delivery is a truly memorable experience. Additionally, latest range of merchandise and accessories are on display at the lifestyle and accessories zone. The customer interaction lounge offers a relaxed ambience to discuss various aspects of owning a BMW or MINI vehicle with sales consultants. Further, customers can avail attractive finance and insurance options for the products of their choice.