INNOVATION, QUALITY AND SUSTAINABILITY

Could you share a brief overview of Durian Laminates, its vision, and its footprint in the market?

Durian Laminates is a prominent name in the decorative laminates industry, known for producing high-quality laminate products used in various applications such as furniture and interior-exterior designing. Durian Laminates is part of the broader Durian Industries group, a significant player in the Indian furniture and interior design market.

Our vision is to set benchmarks in the laminate industry through innovation, quality, and sustainability. We aim not only to beautify spaces but also to ensure our products are durable and environmentally responsible. In India, our presence is robust and expanding, supported by a growing footprint in international markets. Our commitment to delivering exceptional products and services has made us a preferred partner among architects, interior designers, and end-users who value reliability and aesthetic excellence.

As someone carrying forward your grandfather’s legacy, what values do you prioritize in the business?

Upholding the legacy of my grandfather, we focus on several core values that have shaped our family & company culture and business ethics. Integrity is paramount; we ensure that all our raw materials are sourced ethically, maintaining transparency throughout our supply chain. We are committed to quality, not just in our products but in every interaction with our stakeholders. Hard work and dedication are reflected in our pursuit of operational excellence— we constantly innovate our manufacturing processes and foster a collaborative work environment. Lastly, innovation, adaptability, community engagement, and environmental responsibility guide our strategies, ensuring we not only grow as a business but also contribute positively to society and the environment.

Can you discuss your journey into the family business and what motivated you to join?

Entering the family business, after living in the US for 9 years, was both a personal and professional decision deeply influenced by my admiration for what my grandfather had built and a genuine passion for the industry.

The transition was challenging— balancing respect for time-honoured practices with the need to adopt modern strategies was critical. My role demanded gaining the trust of both long-standing employees and our customer base, which I approached by immersing myself in every aspect of the business, from production to marketing. Overcoming initial resistance to change was tough, but it paved the way for embracing new technologies and innovative practices that have significantly enhanced our operational efficiency and market reach.

Durian Laminates is known for its exclusive product line. Could you elaborate on these offerings?

Our extensive product line-up is crafted to meet a wide array of design needs and preferences, making Durian Laminates a versatile choice for designers and architects.

Our High-Pressure Laminates (HPL) are engineered for durability and versatility, ideal for high-wear areas such as kitchens and offices. Compact Laminates are specifically designed for high-impact environments, offering enhanced robustness for places like laboratories and hospitals. Additionally, our Exterior Grade Laminates provide solutions for outdoor applications, characterized by their exceptional durability and resistance to weather conditions. Each product is a result of meticulous research and adherence to strict quality standards, ensuring they not only meet but exceed the expectations of our discerning clientele.

How do you plan on expanding your presence in India?

Our strategy for expanding our presence across India aims to address the diverse needs of the market while capitalizing on the foundation we have built over the years. Firstly, we plan to broaden our geographic reach by strengthening our distribution network, by increasing our number of dealers and distributors, and also setting up additional showrooms and experience centres in key cities. These centres will allow potential customers to interact first-hand with our products, enhancing customer engagement and building trust.

Also, focusing on product diversification by expanding our existing product lines and introducing innovative new products, including the launch of eco-friendly and technologically advanced laminate solutions to meet increasing demand for sustainable and high-performance materials. We are actively seeking alliances with architects, designers, and builders to co-create unique solutions that can be integrated into their projects. We also plan to ramp up our marketing efforts, particularly in the digital space, by leveraging social media, online advertising, and digital content marketing. Participating in trade shows, industry conferences, and exhibitions will also play a crucial role in expanding our network and showcasing our innovations to industry stakeholders.

Finally, we are committed to enhancing our customer service and support framework to ensure that we not only attract new customers but also retain them. Our focus is on customer satisfaction and loyalty, by building lasting relationships for long-term growth and success in the Indian market.

Are there any new products that are planned to be introduced in the near future?

We are excited to announce the introduction of new products that cater to both domestic and international markets. In the coming months, we will be launching a new size of laminates, 10×4.25 feet, which will be available for both export and Indian markets. This new dimension is designed to provide versatile application, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, we are also introducing a new line of eco-friendly laminates. These products are developed with an emphasis on minimizing environmental impact without compromising on the quality and durability that our clients have come to expect from us. With these innovations, we continue to reinforce our commitment to sustainability to meet the evolving needs of the market.

What are your short-term and long-term goals for Durian Laminates?

We aim to penetrate deeper into existing markets and identify new areas where our products can meet unfulfilled needs, thus broadening our customer base. Introducing new products and enhancing existing lines, will cater to a wider variety of customer preferences and emerging market trends. Focusing on elevating the customer experience through streamlined service processes, enhanced support, and personalized engagement strategies. We are committed to improving our operational practices, reducing waste, and optimizing resources to increase productivity and cost-effectiveness.

We envision expanding our reach not only across India but also into international markets, establishing a strong global presence. Investing in research and development to continuously evolve our product offerings and stay ahead of technological advancements. We believe in nurturing a corporate culture that promotes development, collaboration, and well-being among our employees, ensuring that they grow as the company grows. By focusing on these goals, we aim to build a robust, innovative, and customer-focused company that leads the way in the laminate industry while contributing positively to the communities we serve.