 "Consumer durables makers expect good sales this summer")
"Sales are expected to be much better this year. There is a lot of positivity in the market. We expect to grow by about 35 per cent this calender year," Haier India President Eric Braganza told PTI.
Haier had introduced over 65 products in four categories -- washing machines, refrigerators, air conditioners and television panels this year. It plans to launch seven more products by next month.
Agreeing with Braganza, Panasonic India Managing Director Manish Sharma said: "Temperatures have soared and we expect a surge in demand for air conditioners and refrigerators after nearly flat growth over the last one year. Panasonic's has witnessed a growth of 5 per cent in AC segment and consistent performance in refrigerator segment like last year."
"We are confident that year 2014 will open up a plethora of new opportunities for the industry to grow. Despite a delayed in the arrival of summers, we are expecting good sales this year," he added.
Japanese consumer giant Sony is expecting its television sales to "at least double" this year on the back of FIFA World Cup.
"Positive market sentiments will definitely help us achieve good growth. Ahead of FIFA we have launched a consumer promotion campaign. We expect television sales to at least double his year," Sony Head-Sales Sunil Nayyar said.
Sony has also added two new television models to its Bravia range.
Industry body Consumer Electronics and Appliances Manufacturers Association (CEAMA) said consumer durable sales from June onwards are expected to pick up.
CEAMA President Anirudh Dhoot said: "The consumer electronics and home appliances industry, which is currently struggling due to sluggish market conditions, expects a turnaround from the positive Government initiatives.