Nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, Kerala, often referred to as God’s Own Country, isn’t just a tourist’s paradise. Over the years, it has carved out a niche for itself in the manufacturing landscape of India. Kerala’s manufacturing industry, thriving amidst its lush greenery and serene backwaters, encapsulates everything from traditional handloom to advanced electronics. As these companies continue to expand, their influence stretches beyond production lines; they play a pivotal role in urbanisation, job creation, and, notably, in shaping the real estate dynamics of the region. Dive into this article as we explore the top 10 manufacturing companies in Kerala that are not only boosting the state’s economy but also redefining its modern identity.
Business landscape of Kerala
Kerala, leveraging its rich natural resources and strategic coastal location, has birthed a myriad of manufacturing sectors. From the intricacies of coir production to the sophistication of rubber industries, Kerala’s manufacturing landscape is diverse. Moreover, the state’s focus on sustainable practices ensures that industries thrive without compromising the region’s ecological balance.
List of top manufacturing companies in Kerala
JR Rubber Industries
- Industry: Construction Material
- Location: Thadapparambu, Mulankunnathukavu P.O Thrissur – 680581
- Founded in: 1994
Founded in 1994, JR Rubber Industries has emerged as a beacon of quality in the construction industry, specialising in rubber moulds. From wet-casting tile moulds to an extensive range encompassing PVC, plastic, rubber and compound wall moulds, its products are the epitome of durability. Headquartered in Thrissur, it has expanded its horizon by exporting to 29 countries.
CPPL
- Industry: Chemicals & Polymers
- Location: IV/147 A, Devikripa, FACT Road, North Kalamassery, Kochi- 683104
- Founded in: 1993
With its roots in Kochi, Kerala, CPPL has etched a distinguished mark in the domains of industrial chemicals, solvents and polymer products. Its expansive activities, ranging from imports to manufacturing, are guided by a stringent commitment to quality, environmental health and safety. Products like acetone, acrylates and benzene are just the tip of the iceberg in its vast repertoire.
Winjet Polymers
- Industry: Plastics & Packaging
- Location: Kinfra Textile Park, F Block, Pallivayal P.O, Taliparamba, Kannur – 670142
- Founded in: 2013
Since its inception in 2013, Winjet Polymers has carved a niche in the domain of PET plastics and PET bottle manufacturing. Its adoption of high-quality polymers in creating aesthetic and functional items showcases its dedication to the craft. Its unique approach, allowing customisation, cements its position as industry pioneers, setting new benchmarks in polymer-based solutions.
KEL
- Industry: Engineering
- Location: TC-11/568, MBC-36, Museum Bains Compound, Kowdiar P.O, Trivandrum – 695 003
- Founded in: 1954
With over half a century in the engineering industry, KEL stands tall as a multi-product engineering marvel. From defence to space research organisations, its client base is a testament to their unparalleled expertise. Across its state-of-the-art manufacturing units in Kerala, KEL produces a vast array of products, ranging from transformers for railway applications to dynamic reactive power compensation solutions. Being a Public Sector Undertaking under the Kerala Government, it is the go-to choice for engineering solutions across India.
JAJ Equipment Industries
- Industry: Kitchen Equipment Manufacturing
- Location: Major Industry Area, Ollur P.P, Thrissur – 680306
- Founded in: 2006
Incepted in 2006, JAJ Equipment Industries has emerged as a frontrunner in the kitchen equipment manufacturing sector. Its extensive portfolio spans kitchen hoods, working tables, trolleys and refrigeration systems. Its presence on Trade India’s list of verified sellers underscores their commitment to delivering unmatched quality. Collaborations with giants like ASTER MIMS and Thalappakatti restaurants, among others, amplify its credibility in the industry.
Liferoof (Pipefield Group)
- Industry: Building Materials
- Location: 37/3461, Deshabhimani Junction, NH Road, Kaloor, Kochi -682017
- Founded in: 1982
For over three decades, Liferoof, a crucial part of the Pipefield Group, has played a foundational role in pipe distribution in Kerala. Beyond this, its innovation in crafting superior quality roofing products tailored for Kerala’s distinct climatic conditions has set them apart. Its array of products, from roofing sheets to essential accessories, makes it a preferred choice for building solutions in Kerala.
Darvaas Industries
- Industry: Construction Materials
- Location: Ganga Tower, Robinson Road, Near Sayoojyam residency, Palakkad – 678001
- Founded in: 2004
Darvaas Industries stands as a beacon of innovation in the construction materials industry. Its focus on crafting water-resistant, environmentally-conscious fibre doors has made them a household name. Recognising the shift towards sustainable building practices, Darvaas has pioneered products that are not just durable and cost-effective but also eco-friendly.
Ojin Foods
- Industry: Food Production
- Location: Melekendy 11/491A, Convent, Kozhikode – 673032
- Founded in: 2001
In the realm of oilseed mining, Ojin Foods stands tall, bringing forth an assortment of delightful products like jams, sauces and the traditional payasam. Its dedication to harnessing natural ingredients for their bakery products has made it a revered name in the wholesale market.
Parisons Group of Companies
- Industry: Food Production
- Location: Corporate office 6/1183, Kunhipari buildings, Cherooty Road, Calicut – 673032
- Founded in: 1982
Embarking on its journey in 1982, Parisons Group transitioned from a wheat flour mill to an empire of food manufacturing. Its diverse product range, including edible oils, biscuits, teas and more, speaks of its adaptability and commitment to excellence.
Kerala Electrical and Allied Engineering Company
- Industry: Electrical Engineering
- Location: 7th floor, KSHB office complex, Panampilly Nagar, Kochi – 682036
- Founded in: 1964
Founded in 1964, Kerala Electrical and Allied Engineering Company has been at the forefront of electrical engineering, supplying vital components for national endeavours. Its contributions to missile programs and defence underscore their pivotal role in nation-building. Its extensive product range, encompassing everything from brushless alternators to intricate components for radar applications, showcases its technical prowess and unwavering commitment to the country’s defence and progress.
Tata Motors
- Industry: Automotive
- Founded in: 1945
- Location: Room No 21/415 A and B, Shoba Complex, Near PZNR Bus Stand, Thiruvilwamala Road, Pazhayannur, Kerala.
Tata Motors, a renowned name in the Indian automotive industry, is known for producing a wide range of vehicles, from passenger cars to commercial vehicles. While its manufacturing plants are not in Kerala, Tata Motors has a strong presence in the state through an extensive dealership and service network, ensuring customers have easy access to their vehicles and services.
Nissan
- Industry: Automotive
- Founded in: 2005
- Location: Technopark Thiruvananthapuram
Nissan, a global automotive giant, has made its mark in the Indian market with innovative and stylish vehicles. While Nissan’s manufacturing facilities are situated elsewhere in India, the company has a growing presence in Kerala, with dealerships and service centres catering to the needs of local car enthusiasts.
Maruti Suzuki
- Industry: Automotive
- Founded in: 1981
- Location: Plot No. 2/316 on NH47, Kannadikkadu. Near Sarovaram, Kundannoor. Ernakulam, Kerala 682304
Maruti Suzuki, the largest car manufacturer in India, has played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s automotive landscape. Although its manufacturing plants are primarily located in other states, Maruti Suzuki’s widespread dealership network in Kerala offers a wide range of popular and reliable vehicles to customers in the region.
Samsung Electronics
- Industry: Electronics
- Founded in: 1969
- Location: Kozhikode, Kerala 673009
Samsung Electronics is a global leader in consumer electronics and technology. While the manufacturing of Samsung products predominantly occurs outside Kerala, the company has established a strong retail presence in the state, with Samsung Experience Stores and service centres, ensuring that Keralites have access to the latest in electronic innovation.
PepsiCo
- Industry: Food and Beverage
- Founded in: 1965
- Location: Kanjikode industrial area, Kerala- 678621
PepsiCo, a household name in the food and beverage industry, offers a diverse range of popular brands. While PepsiCo may not have manufacturing facilities in Kerala, it maintains a significant market presence through distribution and sales offices, ensuring that its products are readily available to consumers across the state.
ITC
- Industry: Diversified (including FMCG, Hotels, and more)
- Founding Date: 1910
- Location: Jomer Symphony, Jomer tower 3rd floor, Ponnurunni East, Chalikkavattom, Vyttila, Kochi, Kerala 682019
ITC, a diversified conglomerate, has made its mark in Kerala with a significant presence in the hospitality and FMCG sectors. Through its chain of hotels and an extensive distribution network for its FMCG products, ITC continues to serve the people of Kerala with quality and innovation.
Nestlé
- Industry: Food and Beverage
- Founded in: 1959
- Location:Ponganamkadu, Kurichikkara, Kurichikkara-680028.
Nestlé, a global food and beverage giant, is known for its iconic brands. In Kerala, Nestlé’s products are widely available through its distribution channels, providing consumers with trusted and delicious choices for their daily needs.
Mahindra
- Industry: Automotive and Diversified
- Founded in: 1945
- Location: 17/1916a6, G H Road, Calicut Kozhikode, Kerala, 673001
Mahindra, a prominent name in the automotive and diversified sectors, has a strong footprint in Kerala. While its manufacturing facilities are situated elsewhere, Mahindra’s network of dealerships and service centres ensures that customers in Kerala have access to their diverse range of products and services.
Abbott
- Industry: Healthcare and Nutrition
- Founding Date: 1888
- Location: No.39/4229, Ravipuram Road, Ravipuram, Ernakulam – 682016 (Karakkat Building)
Abbott, a leader in healthcare and nutrition, serves the health needs of the people in Kerala through its healthcare products and services. With a presence in the state, Abbott remains committed to enhancing the quality of life and well-being of its customers.
Siemens
- Industry: Industrial and Healthcare
- Founding Date: 2017
- Location: 21, Koyilandy Road, Thamarassery, Kozhikode, Kerala, 673573, India
Siemens, a global player in the industrial and healthcare sectors, provides innovative solutions to various industries in Kerala. With its presence in the state, Siemens offers advanced technologies and services that contribute to the growth and development of the region.
Commercial real estate demand in Kerala
Office space: Kerala’s ascent in the manufacturing landscape has led to a surge in demand for expansive office spaces, especially in key industrial zones like Kochi, Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram. These manufacturing units, with their expansive operations, necessitate state-of-the-art office complexes that can oversee everything from production to logistics.
Rental property: The manufacturing boom in Kerala has inevitably sparked an increase in the need for commercial rental spaces. Whether it’s for storage, auxiliary production units, or administrative tasks, there’s a growing demand. This phenomenon is lucrative for local property owners and developers, leading to escalated rental rates and a boom in construction tailored to the manufacturing sector’s needs.
Impact: From traditional sectors like handloom and handicrafts to modern ones like electronics, the state’s drive has left an indelible mark on its real estate scenario. With manufacturing giants marking their footprints, we see the emergence of industrial parks, dedicated zones, and innovation labs. Kerala, while retaining its cultural essence, is indeed a growing manufacturing behemoth.
Impact of the manufacturing industry in Kerala
Kerala’s embrace of manufacturing has had a transformative effect on its socio-economic landscape. From generating employment opportunities to fostering indigenous crafts and promoting innovation, the manufacturing sector has been a catalyst for change. Its presence has not only elevated Kerala’s stature on the national manufacturing map but has also had profound implications for urban development, infrastructure, and real estate.
FAQs
Why is Kerala significant in India's manufacturing sector?
Kerala, with its unique blend of skilled workforce, abundant natural resources, and strategic location, plays a pivotal role in India's manufacturing landscape.
Which are the key manufacturing sectors in Kerala?
Kerala is renowned for its industries related to traditional handloom, rubber, coir, cashew processing, electronics, and IT hardware, among others.
How do manufacturing units influence Kerala's real estate?
The growth of manufacturing industries has escalated the demand for both commercial spaces and residential accommodations in Kerala, boosting real estate development and property values.
Are there any dedicated industrial zones in Kerala?
Yes, Kerala has several industrial parks and estates like the Kinfra parks, which cater to specific sectors such as electronics, apparel, and food processing.
How does the state government support manufacturing in Kerala?
The Kerala state government offers various incentives, policy initiatives, and infrastructure development schemes to promote and support the manufacturing sector.
What challenges do manufacturing companies face in Kerala?
While Kerala offers many advantages, manufacturers sometimes face challenges related to infrastructural constraints, regulatory hurdles, and labour issues.
Is it feasible to set up a new manufacturing unit in Kerala?
Yes, with the state's focus on industrial growth and the availability of skilled labour, setting up a new manufacturing unit is feasible, though due diligence on location, sector, and market demand is essential.
Which regions in Kerala have the highest concentration of manufacturing companies?
Regions like Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode, and Thiruvananthapuram have a significant number of manufacturing units, given their connectivity and infrastructural advantages.
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