MUMBAI : French channel Fashion TV is in expansion overdrive.

The channel, that has hit headlines in India oftener for criticism of its content by the I&B ministry, has outlined an expansion strategy that will incorporate businesses, revolving around lifestyle, into its portfolio of offerings. The initiatives include the F Bar & Lounge; f cafe and salon; merchandise and accessories; publishing; music and multimedia products. 

The first F Bar & Lounge will launch in Bangalore this month and will be followed by similar offerings in a phased national rollout plan, says Fashion TV India business head Ram Mirchandani. The F Bar & Lounge, like its counterparts in Warsaw, Buenos Aires and Budapest, will bring to life 'international panache' as seen on Fashion TV, and will host fashion-based events and features, international talent including DJ's, fashion designers, and models. Mirchandani says it would represent a hip lounge for the fashion conscious segment.

FTV India has commenced exhibiting Indian talent covering signature shows, featuring Indian designers, models, photographers in the Past few months.

The objective of the lounge is to give a complete 360 degree fashion experience, says Mirchandani. "We will also focus on broadcast of Indian content supported by a host of ground events and other off air activity, taking fashion well beyond the television screen" he adds. 
Fashion TV India will help its franchise partners select premises for the lounge as well as design the interiors; source the merchandise and set up, right down to the executional details. 

A franchise of Fashion TV Paris, Fashion TV India's Indian programming currently includes more than 100 hours of exclusive India centric programs showcasing the latest in Indian fashion, designers, models and parties. Fashion TV India reaches around 22 million households around the country through CDN (Cable Distribution Network), a part of HMA Udyog, promoted by Lalit Modi's Modi Entertainment Group.