Dear Shareholders,

Greetings!

Almost everyone, in this fast increasingly inter connecting world was affected by the severity of the current economic situation. So, where do we stand amongst this crumbling economic scenario?

As I retrospect on the year gone by, one particular incident resonates in my mind again and again. As television channels, newspapers and other media splashed scary headlines on this financial turmoil, a spoof from the title of a movie caught my attention. It read “Saare Zameen Par”, referring to the fall in stock prices.

Funny it was, but I couldn’t help being amazed that despite the crisis, someone still had his/ her sense of humour intact. Moreover, how a little gesture such as this can spread so contagiously and make others smile amidst mayhem.

For 3 decades Archies has successfully spread smiles all around. We believe in the power of relationships and continue to foster our relationships with the same zeal. Over the years, our relationships with our customers and business associates have only grown stronger and healthier, even in face of tough times.

Archies has grown, despite the slowdown all over. Our figures are modest but positive.

Your company has shown 17.65% growth in turnover, we opened 21 new stores, introduced new & innovative cards and gift items. We made international associations and brought in the best soft toys in the world; Me-To-You, Fizzy Moon & Big Foot. We made our bond with the youth even stronger by sponsoring MTV Roadies 6 and MTV Splitsvilla, which are both hugely popular television programmes amongst the young Indians. We moved forward.

Furthermore, we’ve successfully enhanced the backend of our operations. With thousands of SKUs, vendors, suppliers, and other logistics, Archies has built a robust platform for the better times ahead.

These achievements couldn’t have been without the support of our franchisees, our customers and you, who continue to back us with their efforts and good wishes. I thank all of you for your continued support and look ahead for a much rewarding relation in future as well.

With best wishes,

Anil Moolchandani
Chairman & Managing Director