China’s Xiaomi expands into France and Italy

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Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi Corp, which is planning to raise US$10 billion in a Hong Kong public listing, says it has launched sales in France and will enter the Italian market tomorrow.
In France, Xiaomi is selling through its first Mi Store in Paris, via its own e-commerce platform Mi.com, and on other online and offline platforms including Amazon and Cdiscount. To date, the Beijing company has established a presence in 74 markets and has agreements with telecoms carriers in France, including Bouygues, Free, Orange and SFR.
Smartphone shipments in western Europe fell 13.9 per cent in the first quarter, according to market research firm Canalys. Shipments to France dropped 23.2 per cent.
However, Xiaomi shipments rose by more than 999 per cent, while Samsung and Apple saw 15.4 and 5.4 per cent declines respectively.
Questions & Answers
Q.How is Xiaomi distributing its products in France?
How is Xiaomi distributing its products in France?
Xiaomi is selling its products through its first Mi Store in Paris, its own e-commerce platform Mi.com, and other online and offline platforms such as Amazon and Cdiscount. They also have agreements with French telecoms carriers.
Q.What is the broader market context for Xiaomi's expansion into Western Europe?
What is the broader market context for Xiaomi's expansion into Western Europe?
Smartphone shipments in Western Europe decreased by 13.9 per cent in the first quarter, with France experiencing a 23.2 per cent drop. Major players like Samsung and Apple also saw declines.
Q.How did Xiaomi's performance compare to its competitors in the recent market data?
How did Xiaomi's performance compare to its competitors in the recent market data?
Xiaomi's shipments rose by over 999 per cent during the period, despite a general market decline. In contrast, Samsung's shipments fell by 15.4 per cent and Apple's by 5.4 per cent.
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