Martin lighting solutions have been available on the Russian market for more than 20 years, most of that time through exclusive distributor, A&T Trade. Thanks to the strong efforts of Martin's Russian partner, the Martin brand has taken up a leading position in the Russian rental market and is a significant player in the installation market. Today's challenging economy and Martin's global strategy, however, demands a higher level of development and progress, the company says.
"We are grateful to A&T Trade for their contribution to our mutual success," stated Bruno Garros, VP of distributor sales for Martin Professional A/S. "In the future we will see A&T among our reliable partners and friends, however we realise that the resources and efforts of one distributor are not enough to reach our goals. So, having analysed several possible alternatives we have chosen the form of a representative office to best realise our strategy." Under the new organization, A&T Trade will be an authorized dealer in Martin's Russian dealer/partner network.
The opening of a representative office will provide a new level of support and service for Martin's Russian customers. Company plans include providing a convenient logistical scheme, development of a dealer and partner network, optimization of the information flow, and other kinds of support. The office will allow Martin to speak to its Russian customers in a common language, respond promptly to market demands, and ensure European standards of service. Special attention will be paid to expansion of the architectural lighting market.
Martin Professional A/S will monitor the representative office, which will be filled with local employees in Moscow. The head of the new office is Mikhail Kuznetsov, ex-brand manager of A&T Trade. He comments: "We have invited a highly professional team to join us in the representative office, each employee very knowledgeable of Martin products and the Russian lighting market.
"Among my colleagues are Anton Anufriev, a technical guru with deep technical knowledge and vast experience; and Elena Zhulidova, our marketing manager. We have worked with Martin equipment in Russia for many years and are inspired by the success and achievements of Martin around the world. We long to see Martin equipment in prestigious events and installations across Russia and the CIS."
(Jim Evans)
