fiogf49gjkf0d
Since its inception, there is no looking back for Swiss watchmaker Carl F Bucherer which has now embarked on an immense expansion plan to foray into new markets around the globe with strong focus on the Middle East region. In order to strengthen its brand worldwide, the industry veteran Mr. Sascha Moeri has been entrusted to take the company to the next level of growth.
So the clock is ticking now for the industry giants as Mr. Moeri has set his sights to carve a niche for Carl F Bucherer brand in the Arab World. The industry veteran aims to capitalise on the opportunities this region offers through opening new boutiques and joint partnerships.
The company - celebrating its centenary later this decade - has already made its mark in the UAE through its partnership with Rivoli and branches in Dubai’s prime retail locations. In a brief chat, Mr. Moeri reveals the secret recipe for success and the how he will deliver the mandate given to him to enhance company’s image and product line. Below are excerpts from the interview:
As a new CEO, what major challenges do you see?
First of all, I am very proud to take the helm of the company. The work done in the past has been very good; the collections are marvelous; and also the building up of Carl F Bucherer brand overseas is tremendous. However, my short term target is to generate the best profitability ratio and highest sales revenue for the year 2011 since the founding of the company. We will also increase brand awareness as well as appreciation worldwide for the brand within 3 to 5 years.
Where does Carl F Bucherer stand since going global nine years ago?
Certainly, there have been good results from the Swiss and Asian markets. My target is to strengthen our presence and market share in Asia. There are abundant opportunities in the Middle East, South America and East Europe.
Do you intend to stick to company’s strategy of designing watches for relaxed and informal occasions?
The Carl F. Bucherer became very technically oriented as we manufacture our own movements successfully. With the Patravi EvoTec collection we plan to strengthen our position as one of the world’s leading and most progressive watch manufacturers. However, by heritage and all the skills of Carl F. Bucherer’s gemstone experts, we can respond to the ultimate demand for a spectacular ladies watch as well.
How important is the Middle East market for Carl F Bucherer?
Through our heritage and legacy and of course my very own ambition, the Middle East has top priority. As you know, I have been personally visiting the Middle East for many years and it will be truly a great privilege for me to be working with Carl F. Bucherer’s renowned partners. We would like to thank our partner Rivoli, they have done a great job and were always very supporting. Thanks to our boutiques in Dubai mall and Festival City, we have achieved a very good presentation in the whole of UAE. We are working now on a full-fledged strategy for the Middle East. I really look forward again to be working in the region and be a part of the legendary Arabian culture.
Will we see more of the brand in the region soon?
Yes. But, I think, it will take between 12 to 24 months.
Swiss player Diego Benaglio was lately named as a brand ambassador of Carl F Bucherer. What are the prospects for this choice?
Diego is our friend and brand ambassador. Not just that he is the number one soccer goalkeeper in Switzerland, we also share personal values like honesty and success and determination.
Can you please share with us the novelties to be introduced at Basel World exhibition which is just few weeks ahead?
We will reveal the first Carl F. Bucherer watch with a round case equipped with our in-house manufactured movement. The Patravi EvoTec Calendar will have the new functional module, the CFB A1004 integrated. It will be one of our highlights at Baselworld 2011 and will be available in steel and gold. I call this outstanding and beautiful masterpiece La Semainier as this shows you the week indicator in a very practical and pleasing way.
How has Carl F Bucherer successfully maintained its status as an independent watchmaker in such a cut-throat competitive era?
Since its founding 120 year ago, the company has been solely owned by the Bucherer family. Carl F Bucherer is one of the oldest Swiss watch manufactures of importance is a well-renowned manufacturer of unique, distinctive and exclusive designs. Being based in Switzerland, independence is a big advantage. Another major factor is that production is also done in Switzerland. We will continue in this manner.