Led by Vibhinta Verma, the special training program focused on the art of selling luxury
On 16th, 17th and 18th February, Astra Lifestyle hosted its first round of Eyewear Trunk Shows for 2015 at the Westin Hotel in Mumbai. As part of this luxury experience for their partners, Astra conducted a special training program on ‘the art of selling luxury’.
Astra’s latest effort towards bringing about a change in the way premium eyewear is handled in Indian retail is the brainchild of its CEO, Shanu Nag, who states, “There is an art and grace in handling any luxury creation – including eyewear. In addition to ensuring a charming environment, creating desire with aspiring clients is critical for success. Story-telling ability with poise to engage shoppers is fundamental.” This thought forms the basis of the bespoke training program created by Luxury Training Expert, Vibhinta Verma. The program is founded on international principles of luxury management and has been customised to complement the Indian retail environment.
Vibhinta worked extensively with some retail partners and interacted comprehensively with many associates in the optical industry before developing these tailor-made training modules.
The first module, which has been introduced across the country, familiarises the participants with the concept of luxury, the intrinsic values of designer creations and how to deliver a unique experience to promising patrons. Participants are encouraged to share experiences in an open and interactive session. The candidates also learn about the brand heritage, design compulsions and stories that help build confidence while interacting with demanding and informed clients. Each member receives a completion certificate for every module.
Subsequent modules will engage participants in the refinements of the Art of Selling Luxury – not limited to eyewear alone.
The storeowners have multifold and compelling priorities. In this entire miscellany, the essentials of how to be successful and effective in managing luxury products and demanding clients are generally neglected. Astra is making an effort to give this dimension of business the priority it deserves, given the challenging retail environment in India. Astra remains committed to this objective. It was heartening to observe the boundless enthusiasm within the optical fraternity that has been encouraging their colleagues to participate in such unrestricted and complimentary training sessions.
The next training program is scheduled for 25th March in Bengaluru at Astra Lifestyle’s Eyewear Trunk Show for Southern India.
