Our yearly growth is at an average of 15-20 per cent

Tarun Kumar, Sales Manager-India, Africa, the Middle East, ErkatTheir strength lies in just one product - drum cutters. Erkat, a 10-year-old German company, introduced its product in India five years ago. Manufactured in Germany, the drum cuters can be customised and allied products are an offshoot of these. Tarun Kumar, Sales Manager- India, Africa, the Middle East, Erkat, expounds on the company's Indian operation in conversation with Shriyal Sethumadhavan.Any plans for a manufacturing facility in India?At present, we have around 25 machines working in this country, and we are supporting India from our offices in the Middle East and Germany. But yes, in the next two years, we do plan to establish ourselves as a trading company here. But, our products will be manufactured in Germany.How do you view the Indian market?India, a couple of years ago, was labour intensive. But today, we see a reduction in this component, the result of which more machines and technologies are being introduced in the market. So, there is a long way to go.How do you discern the Indian requirement?We work the other way around. Various construction projects encompass various problems. So, these are standard products that we offer as a solution to the existing problem.Your major clients in India....Our machines are costly and hence we only target major contractors. Our prime customers include Hindustan Construction Company, Gammon India, Punj Lloyd, etc. However, if the volume demand increases, we will consider further reduction in prices.How do you see Erkat grow in India?In 2012, we expect to perform better than 2011. Adding new machines every year has helped us achieve our targets in India. With this, our yearly growth is at an average of 15-20 per cent.To share your views on these interviews, write in at feedback@ASAPPmedia.com