?I consider this a marriage of Yamaha and me,? says Bollywood Actor John Abraham on becoming the advisor to Yamaha India, who was so far just the brand ambassador for the company. John Abraham?s love for bikes is a household tale now, but as far as Yamaha is considered, the company is banking on actor?s understanding of Yamaha?s philosophy and the bike culture, which could well be part of company?s marketing strategy.
?Today, Yamaha has a 4% market share and the company targets a 10% by 2012. If I could be of any help for the company to reach that figure, it would be an achievement for me also to be part of the process,? John explains.
Ask him how he would be able to manage his acting assignments and attend the board meetings simultaneously and prompt comes the reply. ?It’s an honour to part of Yamaha?s board. I have to juggle between my acting assignments and meetings and other activities related to branding and marketing. I have already set dates for next three months so that I am not shooting on those dates,? John adds.
The actor is waiting with a bated breath to meet Moto GP no 1 rider Valentino Rossi, whoc is all set to visit Yamaha stall in the ongoing Auto Expo on Jan 10. ? I am also a very big fan of Rossi like all other young ones around. I watch Moto GP like a religion.? On John?s new role in Yamaha India, the company?s marketing head Pankaj Debey said, ?It?s a pleasure to have John as advisor in our company, as he represents the essence of true biking in India. And, he has added a new dimension to our brand image.?
The company is aiming to increase its market share in the 150cc motorcycle segment to 25% by the end of this year from 15% at present. The company today launched an advanced version of its racing bike YZS-R1 priced at Rs 12.5 lakh. It also launched a limited edition of its 150cc bike YZS-R15 priced at Rs 1 lakh. India Yamaha motor is also aiming to increase its domestic sales as well as exports this year.