MUMBAI Conde Nast is entering the US$155 million Indian magazine space with its flagship fashion title, Vogue, expected to hit the stands in August 2007. Based out of Mumbai, it will be the 17th edition of Vogue worldwide.
"We believe that the time is just right," said Alex Kurruvilla, managing director, Conde Nast India. 'There is substantial activity in the luxury market with new entrants setting up shop every day."
Both cover price and content mix are still being worked on, with the target audience being affluent Indian women with an interest in fashion, beauty and luxury brands.
Unlike most other Western publishers, Conde Nast will own and operate its own magazines in India, rather than publishing through a joint-venture or a licence.
'This approach reflects Conde Nast's deep commitment to the Indian market," said Jonathan Newhouse, chairman, Conde Nast International. "Vogue is just the beginning."
Anna Harvey, who has overseen the launch of other Vogue editions in countries such as Russia, Portugal and Greece, has been appointed editorial director of Indian Vogue. She was formerly fashion director and, subsequently, deputy editor at British Vogue. In 1997, she was appointed editorial director of Conde Nast, new markets.
Priya Tanna has been assigned the editorial duties of Vogue India. Prior to her current assignment at Vogue, she was the editor of After Hours, the entertainment and lifestyle section of DNA.