HCL Infosystems to distribute Kodak digital cameras in India

30 July 2007

HCL Infosystems Limited, a premier information enabler and India''s leading ICT system integrator and distribution company, expects strong growth in the digital lifestyle segment, according to a filing with the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).

The agreement is for a pan-India distribution of Kodak digital imaging products. The digital lifestyle and personal technology products category is growing by leaps and bounds and Kodak is projecting strong growth rates in the category of Digital Imaging, the release said.

"HCL sees digital imaging products as a major growth category over the next few years. Kodak, with its well-established brand and market leadership in the imaging business, is an ideal partner to consolidate our leadership in the digital lifestyle arena. Our tie-up with Kodak is a reflection of our ''digital lifestyle'' strategy that aims to position HCL as the premier player bringing digital lifestyle products to the Indian consumer," HCL Infosystems executive vice president Hari Baskaran said.

Kodak India Private Limited, a subsidiary of US-based Eastman Kodak Company, is the leading player in the high-growth digital photography industry in India.

"Kodak aims to bring the latest digital imaging technology to the Indian consumer. We are pleased to have HCL Infosystems as a partner in our quest to offer one of the widest ranges of digital imaging products to our consumers. India is at a very interesting stage with respect to the way pictures are being clicked and managed .We have been maintaining our leadership position in a very dynamic market and this step will take us yet ahead in the industry," Kodak India managing director Ravi Karamcheti said.

India has emerged among the fastest growing markets for digital cameras worldwide, with shipments forecasted to jump from 8 lakh units in 2007 to 2 million units by 2010. HCL, with its extensive reach across channels and organized retail (including the HCL DigiLife Stores) is expected to be a major force multiplier for Kodak. HCL will also be responsible for Kodak institutional sales pan India.