INDITIME was founded in 2009 by François Delannoy and is specialised in importing furniture from India, and since 2024, also from Indonesia. InteriorDaily interviews the founder: 'Our company, based in France, India, and Indonesia, operates primarily through three key activities:
Importation: We offer a full range of services facilitating the process from production monitoring to logistics, supported by a dedicated quality team in India and quality control partners in Indonesia. With over 50 partner manufacturers, we provide our clients with distinctive opportunities in the home sector (furniture, lighting, decoration, etc.).
Design: We have developed recognised expertise in collaborating with our clients to create exclusive collections tailored to their image, adding significant value in a competitive environment. We enable our clients to establish a true visual identity by developing unique collections for them.
Wholesale Distribution: We offer collections designed by INDITIME directly for sale.
In 2024, we expanded our expertise to new markets such as the hospitality industry (CHR), interior designers, and real estate projects, offering specialised ranges and personalised service.'
Founder François Delannoy.
Why did you choose to import furniture from India?
'Our choice to import furniture from India is rooted in the personal history of our founder, François, who lived in India for several years. He quickly identified opportunities for direct furniture importation for the French market, thus beginning a commercial venture enriched by his attachment to India, the furniture sector, and a passion for local craftsmanship. Recently, we have also expanded our imports to Indonesia, addressing new challenges while continuing to satisfy our long-standing customers.'
How are you currently experiencing transport with all the challenges around the Red Sea?
'The recent situation around the Red Sea has posed logistical challenges, extending transit times to about 42 days on average, compared to the usual 30 days. We are actively working with our logistics partners to minimise impacts on our operations and have promptly informed our clients of the necessary adjustments to ensure the continuity of deliveries safely.'
How is trade within Europe different compared to India?
'Trade with India presents several notable differences compared to Europe, primarily in terms of quality standards and deadline management. At INDITIME, we have a dedicated quality control team in India, specifically trained to ensure products meet strict European standards. This local presence is crucial to guarantee that our products meet our clients' high expectations.
In terms of deadline management, it is common for announced timelines not to be strictly followed in India, necessitating close monitoring and constant support of manufacturers to ensure deadlines are met. From the outset, it is crucial to establish a clear framework to avoid unforeseen issues. To anticipate effectively, it is recommended to plan orders about five months in advance, which is longer compared to timelines in Europe.
In India, there are three main types of manufacturers, each with its characteristics and advantages:
· Small Manufacturers (1 to 5 containers per month): They often offer attractive rates but require more extensive support regarding quality standards and packaging.
· Medium Manufacturers (6 to 20 containers per month): They have a better understanding of European standards and generally offer an interesting dynamic in collections, with the capacity to release 5 to 6 ranges per year, while maintaining competitive rates.
· Large Manufacturers (20 to 70 containers per month): These larger, industrialised structures often have a more developed CSR approach. They are responsive and well-acquainted with the established procedures, but their rates are higher.
Climate constraints, such as monsoon seasons and high temperatures, can also impact production in India. Additionally, cultural festivals and celebrations, like Holi and Diwali, significantly slow down production during these periods.
Thus, working with India requires adaptation to local particularities and a more pronounced anticipation to manage collections effectively while maintaining the quality standards demanded by our European clients.'
What challenges do you face?
'Like many sector players this year, we are facing significant challenges. After a period marked by holidays in May, June presented persistent challenges for our partner clients, particularly in the retail furniture sector, with declining sales impacting the entire market.'
You offer furniture that makes a difference. How is this evident?
'Our commitment to offering distinctive furniture is demonstrated through our strong design team, which anticipates future trends by actively monitoring and participating in international trade shows. This proactive approach allows us to closely collaborate with our clients to develop customised collections, supported by our ability to create prototypes in India for early concept validation.'
What are the future plans for the company?
'INDITIME is resolutely focused on the future, with several ambitious projects planned. In 2024, we are emphasising expanding our operations in Indonesia to diversify our offerings, particularly in premium outdoor furniture ranges. We are also launching our own design studio, reinforcing our commitment to innovation and customer service. Additionally, we are integrating a solid CSR strategy to ensure responsible importation and meet new regulatory requirements in the home sector. Through our "INDITIME 2027" initiative, we aim to triple our revenue by 2027, affirming our position as a leader in furniture importation for independent market players.
INDITIME is also delighted to announce our presence at the upcoming furniture shows: Maison & Objet, from September 5 to 9 (INDITIME will be at Stand N102-O101, Hall 5A) and Esprit Meuble in November.
At Maison & Objet, we will highlight our role as an importer and our expansion into new markets, including Indonesia and hospitality products. We will also showcase innovative and distinctive products to inspire visitors in their future collection choices. We will then proceed with our fourth participation in Esprit Meuble in November, where we will continue to share our latest stock novelties (wholesale activity).
Additionally, we have several missions planned in India. Feel free to contact us if you are looking for specific products; we will be happy to meet your needs. Finally, we are pleased to announce the launch of our design entity "Le Studio." In a few months, we will be delighted to present it to you. Stay connected with INDITIME to keep up with our latest innovations and projects.'
More information;
INDITIME
[email protected]
www.inditime.fr
France