The Road Ahead
< CEO Speak >
Hiren Kumar Bose meets up Cindy Livingston, president and CEO, Sequel AG (worldwide distributor of Guess and Gc watches) to talk about the young and sexy brand’s plans for India
How does it feel being in the company of the ten top-selling Swiss-made watches?
It feels good. Gc is a 16-year-old brand. It’s an achievement for us to be among the top ten. The success hasn’t come overnight; we had to work hard for it. Now, we need to stay focussed.
Who is a Guess or Gc customer? Is it just the youth?
For Guess, the products have become much more sophisticated in recent years, both in design and quality expectations. However, our end consumer can be young or old. Smart luxury is the essence of the Gc brand. At Gc, if you have a dream, we can help you fulfill it. All the watches here are manufactured with the finest materials and impressive details—from certified diamonds, sapphire crystals, mother-of pearl dials to high-tech ceramic, luxurious leather straps, and much more. The old, the young and anyone who has a dream of owning a Swiss-made timepiece will find their dream realised with us through affordable price points.
How has the market been in 2012 for Guess and Gc watches?
We are presently in 100 countries. A third of our business comes from the Middle East, America and Europe except the southern hemisphere countries. Secondary markets like Russia, Turkey and Indonesia are growing. The European market has been tough but this is likely to end. We are focusing very strongly on India, China and Eastern Europe.
How has the response been in India?
We currently have a presence in Mumbai, Delhi and, I believe, Bangalore as well. Soon, we will have Guess and also Gc boutiques in two-tier cities. We have a three-year plan for the same. The pointsof- sales will grow too. Soon, you may hear about our new brand ambassador, who is a young Bollywood star.
What are the highlights for this year?
For Guess, we’re launching an entire statement supporting the brand, with backgrounds in denim blues. The highlights from the collections include a new tri-tone statement that exemplifies the functional side of rose gold. For Gc, one of our main ladies’ watch is the Gc Mini Chic inspired by the fashion trend of warm natural tones interpreted in soft croco-embossed leather bracelets. For men, GC presents a new contemporary take on the iconic GC-1 sport—a dynamic timepiece that encompasses the DNA of the brand with its bold design, attention to detail, use of quality materials and striking colour combinations.
What is the design philosophy of Guess and Gc watches?
At Guess, it’s all about being an accessory first, and then, a timepiece while at GC, we are influenced by highend Swiss brands.
How are you engaging and enticing the digital customer?
Guess is a leading watch brand using the social media platform. In fact, we have around 3.2 million Facebook followers. We will soon launch the Gc website where our customers can share their stories.
