AB Electrolux plans a comeback to India

Swedish firm AB Electrolux, which had shut its Indian operations and sold assets and brand rights to Videocon three years ago, is moving back to India.

Electrolux, the world's second-largest home appliance maker, is planning to launch built-in kitchen appliances under the Electrolux brand.

According to the global media spokesperson of AB Electrolux, ''Electrolux is evaluating entering the high-end built-in kitchen appliance business. This is a business channel not covered by the Videocon licence.''

In 2005, the Swedish company had sold its entire Indian business, including the brands and its manufacturing assets, to Videocon.

With its reentry, Electrolux will have a new product category. Xcite, a multi-brand electronics retail chain will sell Electrolux's Frigidaire in India. Frigidaire, which has a range of products, including refrigerators, water filters, washing machines and air-conditioners, was earlier owned by General Motors. It has been with Electrolux since mid-80s.

Electrolux products are now manufactured, marketed and distributed by Videocon Industries. Videocon owns the brand rights for Electrolux for five years which expires in 2010.