Index Living plans to enter Indian homes soon

Index Living Mall Co, a Thai home furnishing retail chain has revived its plan to open franchise stores in India. Currently, the company is conducting a feasibility study to open new outlets through the franchise system in the Middle East.

Two year ago, the company was in talks with another Indian investor but the deal could not be concluded. As per the officials, the business plan was reviewed after it was contacted by a new Indian investor, who had visited the Index Living Mall in Dubai recently.

Index Living Mall Co operates 13 stores in Thailand, with three more in development and a target of opening 20 in total. India represents Index Living Mall Co's second international market and will enjoy an even greater competitive advantage after the free trade area agreement between Thailand and India takes effect next year. Under the FTA, the import tariff on furniture to India will be gradually cut to between zero and five per cent, down from 35-40 per cent at present.