Penetrating into more OEMs will be key
Semperflex India's primary focus remained on hydraulic hoses at bauma India. Basumitra Datta, Country Manager, shares more on the company's plans and market outlook...

One pathbreaking offering: Being a hose only company, we do not become competitors to our customers. So I think the customers prefer us and we are getting a good response from the market also. They feel much safer and comfortable working with us.

Demand drivers in 2019: Construction equipment and tractors are coming up in a big way, driving the demand for hose. Industry wise, steel and cement industry can also contribute to the demand growth.

Announcement contributing to the company's growth in 2018: We have launched new products in 2018 and these products have been accepted by the market and found them better in terms of life, performance, and adaptability. Particularly the flex line range of spirals which we have come up with, has definitely added advantage.

Challenge for the company in 2019: Since our products are imported, definitely exchange rate stabilisation is very important. Also there are certain segments where we find unhealthy competition, which is a challenge.

Key strategy to success in 2019: Penetrating into more OEMs will be key to success in 2019. Many OEMs have already started showing interest in our products. There are confirmations lined up for starting supplies from January itself.