Interviews

Elista CMD Shares Insights on Consumer Technology Industry, Manufacturing Challanges and India’s Emergence as Global Electronics Powerhouse

 CXOToday has engaged in an exclusive interview with Mr Saket Gaurav, CMD of Elista

Consumer electronics can present various challenges in manufacturing and sales. Elista has recently announced manufacturing plants in Andhra Pradesh. What is Elista’s approach towards branding and sales? 

At Elista, our commitment to cutting-edge consumer electronics and local manufacturing is showcased in our recently announced 1.32 lakh sq feet facility in Andhra Pradesh. This state-of-the-art facility signifies our dedication to producing international standard products in India. The upcoming plant, operational by December 2024, focuses on smartwatches and speakers, contributing to local employment and economic growth.

Elista’s ‘Make in India’ message has propelled us into a global presence, reaching over 17 countries. Our distinct brand identity is built on consistent values, further elevated by our strategic partnership with cricketer Suresh Raina.

Having precisely identified our target audience and delved into manufacturing, our current emphasis lies in crafting products that resonate with our customers’ needs. We are dedicated to delivering high-quality offerings to the market, complemented by world-class after-sales service. With these elements aligned, coupled with strategic positioning and enhanced visibility, we are poised for a promising future in terms of sales.

  1. What is the role of technology in fostering growth and innovation in the sector? How does Elista leverage technology in the design and production of consumer electronics?

Technology is central to driving growth and innovation in the consumer technology industry, facilitating streamlined design and production processes. At Elista, we’ve made significant investments in cutting-edge technology. Our manufacturing plants and design labs boast state-of-the-art machinery and solutions dedicated to designing and producing top-notch consumer technology products.

Moving forward, we are poised to capitalize on advanced manufacturing techniques, including automation and AI, to heighten efficiency and cut costs. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning will enable personalized user experiences and predictive maintenance. Furthermore, we plan to incorporate augmented reality and virtual reality in the design phase for enhanced visualization and refinement.

  1. Luxury electronics are becoming more prevalent. How does Elista handle the competition from Luxury brands entering into the consumer electronics industry? 

Elista has a well-defined positioning and purpose as a brand, clearly identifying its target segment. We specialize in creating technologically advanced products that are both affordable and cater to the masses. Our commitment to this mission remains steadfast, and we don’t perceive luxury brands as direct competition. Our focus on delivering cutting-edge technology at an accessible price point ensures that we occupy a distinctive niche in the market, allowing us to consistently meet the needs of a broad consumer base.

  1. How do you prioritize work-life balance in your daily routine? What strategies have proven most effective in maintaining this balance for yourself and your team?

As a leader, prioritizing work-life balance is crucial for myself and my team. Clear communication on expectations and deadlines is fundamental, allowing for realistic workloads. We promote flexibility, including remote options, and conduct regular check-ins to gauge workload and stress levels. Fostering a company culture that values well-being contributes to a healthy work-life balance, boosting team engagement and productivity.

  1. What are your views on India emerging as a global powerhouse in the manufacturing sector and the vision of Make in India for the World? 

India’s trajectory as a global powerhouse in the manufacturing sector is promising, driven by strategic initiatives and conducive economic conditions. I perceive India’s emergence as a global manufacturing powerhouse and the ‘Make in India for the World’ vision as a transformative opportunity. This aligns seamlessly with Elista’s mission of ‘making in India for the world.’ India’s commitment to economic reforms, ease of doing business initiatives, and strategic sectoral focus positions it attractively for global manufacturers.

With a large and skilled workforce and technological advancements, India holds immense potential to become a hub for diverse industries. The ‘Make in India for the World’ vision aligns with global supply chain diversification trends, paving the way for increased exports. As the founder, I am enthusiastic about India’s role in shaping the future of global manufacturing and its significant contribution to the world economy.

  1. Looking ahead, what future innovations or improvements do you anticipate for the consumer electronics industry?

The consumer electronics industry stands at the threshold of numerous innovations and enhancements. Artificial intelligence and Machine learning are set to elevate personalization and user experiences, while innovations in materials like flexible displays will further revolutionize form factors in various personal devices’ categories. These devices will harness the power of the Internet of Things (IoT), enabling a seamless ecosystem for consumers.

As the hardware ecosystem has expanded, prioritizing eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs is crucial to promote sustainability. Elista, poised at the forefront of these changes, is ready to leverage these innovations to enhance customer experiences and simplify lives with its comprehensive product portfolio.