Just Dial plans US foray

The Bangalore-based Just Dial Services is planning to enter the US market.

Mani Iyer, managing director, A&M Communications, the holding company of Just Dial, said, "Currently there is no concept of a phone information service in US. Therefore, we are looking to launch it there soon. The US Just Dial number will be a toll-free number."

For its overseas venture, A&M has already floated a company called Just Dial International, a wholly owned subsidiary.

The company is planning to raise funds for its overseas foray. "In this regard, we are in the process of negotiating with some venture capitalists for funds. We expect things to materialise in the next few months," Iyer said.

Currently, the promoters - the Iyer family "" holds a little above 50 per cent in A&M, while IndiaInfo.com holds the balance.

The company has lined up the launch of Just Dial services on the internet. "Although there is already MTNL's online directory, we are looking to provide the entire gamut of information services including product information online. The internet venture should take off in the next few months," Iyer said.

A&M recorded a turnover of around Rs 20 crore in the last financial year and is targeting a turnover of Rs 100 crore by the end of three years.

The company has introduced the B2B Yellow Pages in Mumbai, the first of its kind. "The B2B yellow pages focuses on the business community compared with the generic yellow pages."

In its first year, the company is planning to print about 3.5 lakh copies.