Interview with Rohit Sethia

Rohit Sethia
Associate Vice President
Ginza Industries Ltd

We aim to achieve significant growth and remain competitive globally

Ginza Industries Ltd, founded in 1986, is a leading textile company in India with a significant presence in Maharashtra and Gujarat. It has evolved from a pioneer in the apparel and components business to a comprehensive textile solutions provider, manufacturing over 10,000 products and employing over 4,000 people.

Ginza offers a diverse range of products, including Raschel, warp-knitted fabrics, laces (as the largest supplier in India), elastics, weft knits, and embroideries. Supported by strategic backward integration and continuous innovation, Ginza’s pan-India distribution network includes eight sales offices and a highly trained support team.

Renowned for its product quality and competitive pricing, Ginza boasts a loyal clientele in domestic and international markets, including the US and Europe, serving as a preferred vendor for numerous notable brands. Its capable leadership and expert consultants ensure that Ginza stays ahead of market dynamics, maintaining its industry dominance.

Fibre2Fashion recently interacted with Rohit Sethia, Associate Vice President of Ginza Industries Ltd, where he talked about a broad range of topics including backward integration, product range, value addition, technological advancements, sustainability, catering to diverse markets, and strategic goals of the company. Excerpts:

What are the most significant technological advancements that have transformed textile manufacturing in recent years?

Recent technological advancements transforming textile manufacturing include automation, digital printing, and advanced textile processing techniques. These technologies enhance production efficiency, allow for greater customisation, and improve overall product quality. Staying updated with these advancements is crucial for companies aiming to remain competitive and innovative.

In your opinion, what specific changes are necessary to enhance the competitiveness of Indian textile manufacturers in the global market?

To enhance the competitiveness of Indian textile manufacturers globally, change is necessary. These include adopting advanced technologies, improving quality standards, focusing on sustainability, and investing in skill development. Additionally, government support in the form of favourable policies and incentives can further boost the industry’s growth and global competitiveness. India is mostly on the map for cotton-focused products, but we believe MMF is an equally strong product category that has an equally large consumption in the global market, and we are rightly placed to cater to these requirements.

How is sustainability being integrated into the manufacturing processes within the textile industry?

Sustainability is increasingly being integrated into textile manufacturing processes today. This includes adopting eco-friendly materials, reducing water and energy consumption, and minimising waste. Companies prioritising sustainability not only meet regulatory requirements but also appeal to environmentally conscious consumers, gaining a competitive edge.

What are the common challenges faced when expanding textile operations to international markets?

Expanding textile operations internationally presents challenges like navigating different regulatory environments, understanding local consumer preferences, and managing logistics efficiently. Maintaining consistent quality and managing costs in a competitive global market require constant strategic planning and precision in execution.

What are the key factors that drive innovation in the textile industry today?

Innovation in the textile industry today is driven by a mix of technological advancements, sustainability demands, and changing consumer preferences. Companies like ours invest in R&D, adopt new technologies, and continuously innovate to meet these evolving demands and stay ahead of the competition.

Can you describe the journey of Ginza Industries from its inception in 1986 to becoming a market leader in the textile industry?

Ginza Industries started in 1986 with a clear vision: to make a mark in the textile industry. We began modestly but steadily expanded our operations, focusing on advanced technology and skilled manpower. Over the years, we have diversified our product range extensively, panning across knits, laces, embroideries, elastics, accessories, and even finished garments from innerwear to apparel. Our dedication to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has helped us grow into a market leader recognised for our extensive portfolio and superior products.

Ginza Industries is known for its extensive product range, including over 10,000 products. How do you manage such a vast portfolio while maintaining high-quality standards?

Managing over 10,000 products requires meticulous planning and robust quality control. We have a skilled and technically proficient team equipped with top-notch machinery. Quality is ensured at every stage of production, from sourcing raw materials to the final inspection of finished goods. Regular training keeps our team updated with the latest industry standards, ensuring each product meets the defined quality standards.

As the largest supplier of laces in India, what do you believe sets your laces apart from competitors in both domestic and international markets?

Our laces stand out due to our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. We use superior raw materials, advanced manufacturing processes, and continuous R&D efforts. This results in laces that are not only beautiful but also durable and versatile, catering to diverse customer needs in both domestic and international markets.

Can you explain the significance of your strategic backward integration? How has this impacted your business operations and product development?

Strategic backward integration has been a game-changer for us. By controlling the entire value chain, from yarn to finished garments, we ensure consistent quality, reduce dependency on external suppliers, and achieve greater operational efficiency. This integration allows for better control over production costs, quicker response to market demands, and continuous innovation, while most importantly allowing us to cater to our customers’ needs more efficiently.

How does controlling the entire value chain from yarn to garment benefit the company in terms of product quality and innovation?

Controlling the entire value chain benefits us in several ways. It ensures high-quality standards throughout the production process, allows rapid innovation, and provides the flexibility to meet customised orders in real-time. This end-to-end control also enables us to implement sustainable practices more effectively, reducing environmental impact and enhancing product appeal.

What are the key stages in your value chain where you believe Ginza adds the most value, and how do you achieve this?

We add significant value at various stages, particularly in fabric making and garment manufacturing. By investing in advanced technology and skilled personnel at each of these stages, we ensure superior quality and innovation with complete control at each and every stage. Continuous improvement initiatives and stringent quality checks at each stage contribute to the overall excellence of the final product.

Could you share insights into the technological advancements Ginza has implemented to improve efficiency and product quality?

We have implemented several technological advancements to improve efficiency and product quality. Investments in modern machinery, such as airflow jets that use less water, and advanced ERP systems for better operational control, have streamlined processes and reduced environmental impact. Continuous R&D and collaboration with technology partners keep us at the forefront of industry innovations. The key factor here is choosing the right technology/machines which is most suitable for a given product. Given our vast experience and abundant exposure, this has really helped us to keep our products a step above competition.

What strategies do you use to cater to diverse markets in the US and Europe?

To cater to diverse markets in the US and Europe, we adopt a market-specific approach. This includes understanding local preferences, complying with international standards, and offering customised products. Participation in international trade fairs helps us to expand our market reach and build strong brand recognition both for components and finished garments.

What initiatives have you undertaken to promote sustainability in your manufacturing processes?

We are committed to promoting sustainability in our manufacturing processes. Initiatives include using recycled yarns, investing in water-efficient machinery, and developing eco-friendly finishes for fabrics and garments. These efforts reduce our environmental footprint and cater to the growing demand for sustainable products.

Looking ahead, what are your main strategic goals for the next five years?

Our strategic goals include expanding our capacity and product line, continuous innovation, and enhancing customer satisfaction. We aim to explore new markets, invest in advanced technologies, and strengthen our position as a leader in sustainable textile manufacturing. By focusing on these areas, we aim to achieve significant growth and remain competitive globally.

Published on: 19/07/2024

DISCLAIMER: All views and opinions expressed in this column are solely of the interviewee, and they do not reflect in any way the opinion of Fibre2Fashion.com.