CEAMA registers a growth of 30% in 1st quarter

Consumer Electronics and Appliances Manufacturers Association has grown 30% over Q1 2009 (Jan - March 2009).

This quarter also saw phenomenal sales especially in the display category which includes Conventional Flat Panel Displays (PDPs, LCDs and Flat screen TVs). FPD registered a growth of 70%, AC sales increased by 50%. The industry also witnessed a 40% healthy growth in Home Appliances Business.

Commenting on the exceptional performance of the Industry Mr Pradeep Kumar spokesperson CEAMA said, "The Consumer sentiment has been very positive and upbeat with higher disposable income and a strong economy. The durable industry has seen a robust 30% growth approximately." He added that due to increase in commodity prices like steel, copper etc. and also increase in VAT by a few states, Appliances and AC's in particular saw a price rise." This didn?t become a deterrent though and almost all categories saw a handsome growth. The industry has also witnessed some interesting upcoming trends.

Due to early advent of summer, March and April saw an unprecedented sale of AC. Earlier most of the households use to buy a single AC, now on an average there are two to three Air conditioners per home. Also in urban areas consumers are preferring split over window Airconditoners. Consumers are more aware about energy efficient appliances as they are proactively asking for star rated Refrigerators and Airconditoners. The demand for LCD televisions is also huge as consumers are replacing CTV for a LCD. Rural market and small town have shown promising demand for durables.