Chinese smartphone maker Vivo launches online store in India

China's smartphone maker Vivo has launched its online store in India to sell its smartphones. The online store is running an introductory offer 'Launch Carnival', which is already live, and will last until January 18.

In a statement, Vivo India, Chief Marketing Officer (CEO), Kenny Zeng said that with the new store Vivo's innovative range of smartphones will be available to our customers across the country with special launch offers.

Vivo's strategy of launching an e-store is an affirmation of the Indian market maturing in terms of internet penetration, payment & fulfillment infrastructure, thus representing a huge growth potential.

Vivo has partnered with BookMyShow to offer movie voucher worth Rs 500 with every purchase. The online store has also listed all smartphones that will be available at discounted prices. It will also offer first 10 customers with premium Bluetooth speakers worth Rs 2,999.

The online store said to cater over 10,000 pin codes in the country. It also aims to launch its online store application with features such as Augmented Reality (AR) support with the live chat option to help customers make purchase decisions.

Importantly, Vivo also plans to launch its brand merchandise in the country.

Speaking of smartphone sales, top five vendors Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, Lenovo, and Vivo account for 75 percent of total shipments in India. Vivo has gained initial market prominence in mid-range smartphones (devices priced between Rs 15,000 and Rs 20,000).

According to an IDC report, Vivo aggressive investments in marketing activities and in-shop promotions contributed to its recent growth. Besides having a stronger offline presence, Vivo holds the third position with a market share of 13%. It registered an impressive quarter on quarter growth of 26% in Q2 2017. In Q1 2017, its market share was 10.5%.

Around 13 million smartphones were sold online in the September quarter, making for year-on-year growth of 35 percent and quarter-on-quarter growth of 73 percent.

Last year, India accounted for 10 percent of global smartphone sales with 39 million smartphones sold in the country.