Tata Sons and Archies: Two Giants Navigating New Waters

September 12, 2024, 4:31 pm
Bigbasket
Bigbasket
BusinessDeliveryFoodTechGroceryITOnlineProductShopStoreTime
Location: India, Karnataka, Bengaluru
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 2011
Total raised: $1.49B
In the bustling landscape of Indian business, two companies stand out: Tata Sons and Archies. Each represents a different facet of the economy, yet both are on the brink of transformation. Tata Sons, a titan in diversified industries, is pouring resources into innovation and growth. Archies, a beloved brand in social expression, is pivoting towards rapid commerce and global expansion.

Tata Sons is like a seasoned sailor, navigating through turbulent waters. With a staggering investment of INR 10,000 crore planned for FY24, the company is strategically positioning itself to harness India's economic potential. The focus is clear: invest in both new and existing ventures. This approach aims to reduce debt while capitalizing on global trends.

The company’s recent annual review reveals a 16% increase in total investments, reaching INR 70,732.5 crore by March 2024. However, the winds of change have not been entirely favorable. Revenue from operations fell to INR 23,856 crore, a sharp decline of 31.61% from the previous year. Yet, total revenue climbed to INR 43,893 crore, a testament to the resilience of Tata Sons amidst challenges.

Tata Electronics is a beacon of innovation. It is spearheading the creation of India’s first semiconductor fab in Gujarat. This move is crucial as the world shifts towards technology-driven industries. Meanwhile, Agratas Energy Storage is ramping up its manufacturing capabilities to support the automotive sector's transition to new energy. Plans for a 40 GWh gigafactory in the UK and a 20 GWh plant in India signal a bold leap into the future.

However, not all ventures are thriving. Tata Digital, which operates the Tata Neu super app, reported a loss of INR 1,200 crore. Air India, set to merge with Vistara, posted a staggering loss of INR 4,444 crore. These figures highlight the risks inherent in ambitious expansion strategies.

On the other side of the spectrum, Archies is like a phoenix rising from the ashes. Known for its greeting cards and gifts, the brand is embracing the rapid evolution of retail. In a remarkable shift, Archies recorded sales of INR 6 crore through quick commerce platforms like Blinkit and Swiggy Instamart last year. For FY 2025, the brand has set an ambitious target of INR 15-18 crore, aiming for a phenomenal growth of 150% to 180%.

Archies is not just keeping pace; it’s setting the tempo. The brand is in talks with BigBasket and Flipkart to enhance its quick commerce capabilities. This strategy aims to deliver products at lightning speed while maintaining the emotional connection that defines Archies.

The company’s vision extends beyond domestic shores. Archies is eyeing global markets, particularly where the Indian diaspora thrives. The Middle East, UK, Canada, and Southeast Asia are on the radar. The strategy is simple: where there are Indians, there’s an opportunity. Archies aims to create a bridge between cultures, bringing its legacy of social expression to new audiences.

As Archies ventures into international territories, it remains committed to its roots. Plans to open 15-20 new stores in prime locations across North India reflect a dual strategy of local and global growth. This approach ensures that the brand stays close to its loyal customer base while exploring new avenues.

Digital expansion is also a key focus. With partnerships established with major e-commerce platforms like Flipkart and Amazon, Archies aims for significant growth in its online operations. The brand is in discussions with Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) and FirstCry to further broaden its digital footprint. This strategic emphasis on accessibility aligns with the brand’s vision of reaching consumers anytime, anywhere.

Beyond retail, Archies’ Print and Pack division is flourishing. With revenues of INR 22 crore in FY 2024, the division is expected to grow to INR 30 crore by FY 2025. This growth underscores the brand’s diverse portfolio and adaptability in a changing market.

Both Tata Sons and Archies are navigating their respective journeys with determination. Tata Sons is focused on innovation and strategic investments, while Archies is embracing rapid commerce and global expansion. Each company embodies resilience and adaptability, essential traits in today’s fast-paced business environment.

As they chart their courses, the future holds promise. Tata Sons is poised to lead in technology and energy, while Archies is set to redefine social expression in a digital age. Together, they reflect the dynamic spirit of Indian enterprise, ready to face challenges and seize opportunities.

In this ever-evolving landscape, one thing is clear: both Tata Sons and Archies are not just surviving; they are thriving. Their stories are a testament to the power of vision, strategy, and the relentless pursuit of growth. As they sail into the future, the horizon looks bright.