Chennai :

Tamil Nadu Handloom Weavers Co-operative Society (Co-optex) is slowly gaining the attention of tech-savvy customers. Its e-commerce facility has sold products worth Rs 2.36 lakh in the last two months, with cotton saris the most popular.

The new initiative on www.cooptex.gov.in has impressed many. N Swaminathan of Trichy said, “I never thought a government product would be available online. I thought I will try the quality and design and it was very impressive.” About 2.54 lakh weavers are part of Co-optex, which was established in 1935 and has more than 200 showrooms, including 60 outlets outside Tamil Nadu.

“Co-optex products are sought after, especially during weddings and functions because of the quality. We are trying to use technology to give a new experience to customers, especially youth. We are also focusing on the global market,” said managing director T N Venkatesh, who was instrumental in the makeover.

He said they introduced soft silk sarees with designs and patterns inspired by ancient temples, monuments and historical places. and “also came up with new generation shirts, especially for youth.”

Online figures show customers from other states and foreign countries ordered Co-optex sarees and shirts online. Products are delivered within 24 hours for customers in TN and upto 72 hours for those in other states.

An official said they held discussions with private e-commercial firms to increase sales. “Purchasing online is a trend. Online sales are important especially when real estate costs are going up”. On www.facebook.com/CoOptex, officials interact with customers and showcase their products. A shopping facility introduced by Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation, or Poompuhar, on tnpoompuhar.org has also received good response with shoppers able to choose nearly 1,600 items, including bronze, brass, wood and stone carvings.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> City> Chennai / TNN / January 28th, 2015