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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.
Why then are we launching this campaign? Our aims are threefold: to take full advantage of the growing number of investments from these countries or world regions which harbor such strong potential; to correct any outdated or misguided beliefs about doing business in France where they might exist; and to capitalize on the very positive image that France enjoys abroad, thanks to the numerous reforms undertaken in the last three years, where it is seen as a responsive, dynamic and innovative country.