Next

If you were amazed by the spurt of consumer durable stores in the recent past and were wondering what's next, here's just that - a chain of stores called Next. A UK brand in a JV with Videocon, its USP seems to be quantity rather than quality, since 1,500 outlets are opening up all over India, and the twin cities will have 10 before Diwali of 2005 - at least that's what they tell us.

The interiors are mundane, but the range isn't. You are actually slightly cramped for space after the TVs, washing machines, fridges, mixies, A/Cs, DVD & VCD players, the uniformed & polite staff, the manager and what look like some customers too. The Next exclusive range of CTVs are at a bargain, though. Finance schemes are available, courtesy Countrywide, and in all 14 brands are showcased. Browsing is not frowned upon, and you can watch all those channels you can't at home for various reasons. The good news - Alcatel-made handsets are coming here shortly, we're told.