We aim to increase our market share from 2 to 7.5% by 2020:Mario Schmidt
We aim to increase our market share from 2 to 7.5% by 2020:Mario Schmidt
In this interview with Payal Gulati, Mario Schmidt, MD, Lingel Windows (the German-based manufacturer that provides one-of-a-kind uPVC Windows) shares an insight into uPVC windows market and growth strategy for his company. 
 
The fenestration industry witnessed a leap in the 90s with the rising demand of the housing sector. What’s the current scenario in India and worldwide?
In India, the sector is much unorganized. Aluminium systems can be manufactured locally, and they may not be following any specific guidelines for quality. But in the case of UPVC windows, they are manufactured in factories, follow strict quality check procedure.  Aluminium windows are of hi quality and very well engineered. Such products cost much more than locally available products.
 
System Aluminium is a new entry in the market. A decade ago UPVC was a new concept and even now it is in a nascent stage. UPVC is still the best system for India because of its insulation properties which helps preventing heat and noise leakage.
 
How big is the estimated market for uPVC window and doors in India? What are the factors propelling the growth?
India has taken a leap in the fenestration product technology. Use of alternate materials like uPVC and aluminium instead of traditional wood not only furthers green initiatives but reduces cost in the long run. Overall uPVC industry size should be around Rs 1,500 crore with 500 players in the market.
What are the major challenges in the uPVC /aluminium window & door industry in India? How do you plan to overcome them?
In the past 10 years we have progressed a lot in in-house designing and manufacturing system especially the hardware system. Initially the products were manufactured and designed in Germany which was not suitable for the harsh Indian climate. The product had the tendency to rust in coastal areas. So we decided to design and manufacture, keeping in mind the Indian weather conditions. We started manufacturing our own series in which all the hardware is made of steel SS 304 and SS 316 for coastal areas since it is rust free. As per the needs we put together systems for the benefit of our customers. 
 
What are your short and long term plans for India?
We wish to build production from the current 2,000 units per week to 3,000 units by 2017. We also aim to increase our market share from present 2 percent to 7.5 percent by the first fiscal of 2020.
 
 
Stay on top – Get the daily news from Indian Retailer in your inbox
Also Worth Reading