MR. ANIL GUPTA
Q.KEI Industries has been a pioneer in the wires and cables sector. Can you share the journey of KEI and its growth over the years?
KEI Industries was established in 1968 as a partnership firm, primarily focused on manufacturing house wiring cables. Over the decades, the company expanded its portfolio to include high-performance wires, low-voltage and high-voltage cables, Extra High Voltage (EHV) cables, with a wide product range from 1.1Kv up to 400kV. Today, we are among the top players in the industry providing world class quality wire and cable solutions, catering to diverse sectors like power, infrastructure, real estate, oil & gas, and renewable energy. Our journey reflects our commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, which have been the key drivers of our growth and global presence.
Q.KEI has transformed into one of the leading brands in wires and cables. What leadership principles have driven this transformation?
At KEI, we believe in leading with a vision, staying customer-focused, and fostering a culture of innovation and customer first approach. Our leadership principles revolve around empowering teams, encouraging accountability, and consistently pursuing excellence. Over the years, we have strategically invested in technology, infrastructure, and talent, ensuring that we not only adapt to industry trends but also set benchmarks. This transformation has been possible due to our relentless commitment to quality and the trust of our customers and stakeholders.
Q.KEI has made significant advancements in the export market. What has been your strategy for global expansion?
Our strategy for global expansion has been twofold: ensuring product quality that meets international standards and building strong relationships with clients worldwide. We have invested in stateof-the-art manufacturing facilities, accredited with certifications, to ensure consistent quality. Additionally, our presence in over 65+ countries is a testament to our strategic efforts to penetrate new markets. With a strong focus on exports in developed countries, including the U.S., Europe, Australia, and Middle Eastern countries, KEI remains committed to delivering innovative solutions that meet the growing demands of an electrified and inter connected world. Collaborations with global consultants and EPC contractors have also played a significant role in expanding our reach.
Q.What role does innovation play in KEI’s product portfolio, especially in a competitive industry like wires and cables?
Innovation is at the core of KEI’s operations. Our NABL accredited in house labs and R&D team continuously works on developing products that address the needs of modern infrastructure and sustainability. For instance, our latest product, Conflame Green+, is an eco-friendly wire designed to ensure safety while reducing environmental impact. Similarly, our focus on EHV cables caters to the rising demand for efficient power transmission in urban and industrial projects. By investing in cutting-edge technology and adhering to global benchmarks, KEI remains ahead in delivering world class quality products and solutions.
Q.Sustainability is a growing concern across industries. How is KEI align ing itself with this global shift?
Sustainability is a significant part of our vision. We are actively reducing our carbon footprint through the adoption of energy-efficient processes and manufacturing eco-friendly products like Conflame Green+. It is an innovative product from KEI that prioritizes power efficiency, safety, and environmental friendliness with many supplementary advantages. KEI Conflame Green+ stands out as a product that goes the extra mile in ensuring comprehensive care for both inside and outside safety. Additionally, KEI Conflame Green+ emphasizes environmental conservation. The production process incorporates the use of clean gas, which helps in reducing the carbon footprint. Improved waste management practices ensure that the production waste is minimized and handled responsibly. We believe that a sustainable business is one that gives back to both society and the environment.
Q.The wires and cables industry is evolving rapidly. What trends do you foresee shaping the future of this sector?
The future of the wires and cables industry will be driven by three key trends: digitalization, sustainability, and high-performance products. As smart cities and renewable energy projects gain traction, there is a growing demand for specialized cables, such as solar, EHV cables and specialized products for power, infrastructure, real estate, oil & gas, and renewable energy. Additionally, KEI Industries proudly announces a groundbreaking milestone in its journey of powering progress—the launch of its largest manufacturing plant in Sanand, Gujarat. With an investment of approximately ?2,000 crores over the next three years, this Greenfield expansion is set to redefine innovation and excellence in the wire and cable industry. Strategically designed to meet the evolving demands of specialty sectors, the Sanand plant will serve as a beacon of KEI’s commitment to technological advancement, sustainable practices, and world-class manufacturing. At KEI, we are preparing to meet these demands with innovative products and by strengthening our R&D capabilities.
Q.The industry is not without its challenges. How has KEI managed to stay resilient amidst economic uncertainties and market competition?
Challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices, intense competition, and global economic uncertainties are part and parcel of the industry. However, our diversified product portfolio, strong financial foundation, and focus on operational excellence have helped us stay resilient. By leveraging our wide distribution network and maintaining a customer-centric approach, we have continued to grow even during challenging times and ensured a ten year CAGR growth of 17.5%.
Q.What is KEI’s vision for the next decade, and how do you plan to achieve it?
Our vision is to become a global leader in the wires and cables industry while contributing to India’s infrastructure and energy needs. To achieve this, we are focusing on expanding our manufacturing capacity, introducing sustainable products, and enhancing our presence in untapped international markets. Additionally, leveraging digital marketing and e-commerce platforms will help us reach end consumers more effectively. KEI’s legacy will be defined by its ability to create value for customers, empower communities, and promote a greener planet. This is the foundation upon which we are building a future-ready organization.
Q.How is KEI integrating advanced technologies like AI and IoT into its operations and product offerings?
Digital transformation is a key pillar of our growth strategy. Internally, we are leveraging AI and machine learning to optimize supply chains, enhance predictive maintenance, and improve operational efficiency. On the product front, we are exploring IoT-enabled intelligent wiring solutions to meet the demands of smart infrastructure projects. For instance, our AI-driven dealer engagement initiatives, like personalized video messages from RCB players, reflect our forward-thinking approach to blending technology with business operations.
Q. KEI has successfully bagged and delivered several landmark projects. Could you share the key projects you have worked on?
KEI Industries has proudly contributed to numerous prestigious projects, showcasing its expertise and commitment to nation-building:
• KEI Industries has proudly contributed to several prestigious projects, establishing itself as a leader in the industry:
• Wiring the world’s largest cricket stadium: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
• Electrification of the New Parliament Building, New Delhi.
• Wiring for India’s Bullet Train Project, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
• Electrification of the Konkan Railway Project.
• Wiring India’s longest rail-road bridge: Bogibeel Bridge, Assam.
• Contributing to the construction of the iconic World’s tallest statue: Statue of Unity, Gujarat.
• Developing and completing the entire underground cable infrastructure for Varanasi city, ensuring uninterrupted power distribution.
• Ram Mandir Project
• SKAO Project: World’s largest telescope project
• Airoli- Katai Naka tunnel
• Mumbai Aqua line metro
• Mumbai Nagpur highway
These achievements reflect KEI’s role as a trusted partner in powering India’s growth with sustainable, safe, and high-quality electrical solutions.
Q. As a leader in the industry, what message would you like to share with the readers of Wire India Expo?
I would like to emphasize the importance of adapting to change and embracing innovation. At KEI, we believe that success is not just about profitability but also about creating value for customers, employees, and society. We are committed to delivering excellence and sustainability in every aspect of our business. I encourage everyone to stay future-focused and work collectively to build a safer and more connected world.
