The opening of 16 new stores has bolstered its already strong retail presence. The division is aggressively expanding its controlled retail space for the future, both in malls and in High Streets coupled with selected stores to provide an international standard retail experience.
Madura Garments will continue to be an industry leader. Its thrust will also be on contract exports with a focus on end-to-end of the value chain — from manufacturing to marketing. Consistent brand building efforts, development of innovative merchandise and aggressive campaigns for each of the brands, have hitherto accelerated brand growth and equity with consumers. The division will continue to leverage upon these strengths.
Rayon division
The rayon division's revenues at Rs. 86.81 crore rose 15.3 per cent compared to Rs. 75.31 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. While VFY sales volume grew by 12.7 per cent to 3,926 tonnes, realisations were affected due to high inventory levels and cheap imports from China. On a positive note, the chlor-alkali segment has been buoyant, buffeted by chemical volumes and higher ECU realisations leading to improved revenues.
Its new caustic soda plant of 45 tpd was commissioned in July 2005, taking its total capacity to 160 tpd. This will be further extended by 40 tpd. A captive power plant of 20 mw is on the anvil too.
Carbon Black division
Carbon Black division's revenues at Rs. 122.26 crore are up by 10.5 per cent vis-à-vis Rs. 110.70 crore attained in the previous year. Domestic sales grew by 9 per cent, which improved the realisation by 10.2 per cent. The volumes were marginally up at 40,988 tonnes while plants operated at their full capacity. Volatile crude oil prices remain a cause of concern.