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Global IT services are part of a rapidly changing market. Indian IT consulting firms have traditionally operated in English-speaking markets, but the trend seems to be reversing as they set their sights on France. Pierre Audoin Consultants reports that in 2010 the sector grew by 2.2% in France, but by only 1.6% in Germany and 1.4% in the United Kingdom.

Since the US financial crisis hit, Indian companies have essentially been trying to realign their businesses by investing in new markets. France is the world’s fifth largest IT market, which quickly made it a preferred location. “Relatively speaking, France has not been hit that badly by the economic downturn, compared with the UK for example. It’s in times like these that companies look to acquire or consolidate a comparative advantage,” notes Narayana Murthy, Chairman of Infosys. In addition to a robust banking sector, the power of major energy groups and a strong public sector make France a naturally attractive market.