The Mothercare boss on overseas expansion and Christmas prospects
Why have you decided to enter the Indian market?

'Mothercare is well received overseas and the brand name is very well known outside the UK. We are looking to open 40 stores in India over the next five years.'

Are there any specific locations yet?

'Not yet, but Mumbai and Delhi are the biggest cities and India is a huge potential market.'

Is the Chinese market being considered as well?

'There are 110 million babies aged under four in India and it's the second-most populated nation on earth - it will outgrow China. It [China] is an interesting market, but we haven't announced anything yet.'

When do you see conditions on the UK high street improving?

'It's difficult to know which way it's going to go. Our supply chain is in a strong position and works very well - much better than it has done. We are well set up for Christmas. We will know in three months' time, won't we?'

How important is online and home shopping?

'For us, it's important that we have good home shopping for parents - it's a great way of shopping for them. The people who shop online are also going to the stores. They want to be able to buy from Mothercare.'

· See Retail Week this week for our feature on entering the Indian market.

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