Anand Group’s unit, Gabriel India, has partnered with Inalfa Roof Systems from the Netherlands to manufacture sunroofs for passenger vehicles in India. The collaboration has resulted in the formation of Inalfa Gabriel Sunroof Systems (IGSS), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Gabriel India, which will operate out of a new plant in Chennai starting in the first quarter of 2024. The companies plan to invest about Rs 170 crore in the project.
Initially, Gabriel India will hold 100% of the shareholding in IGSS. However, the joint venture will be converted to include Inalfa holding 51% shareholding later. The deal marks a significant milestone for both companies, as it marks Gabriel India’s entry into the sunroof market and Inalfa’s expansion into the Indian market.
According to Gabriel India’s Chairman, Deepak Chopra, the partnership brings together the best of both companies in terms of technology, expertise, and market presence. He said that the collaboration would help IGSS deliver world-class sunroof solutions to the Indian automotive industry.
Meanwhile, Inalfa Roof Systems’ CEO, Mark Roojens, noted that the company was excited to enter the Indian market and partner with Gabriel India. He said that the collaboration would enable Inalfa to tap into the growing demand for sunroofs in the Indian market and leverage Gabriel India’s strong distribution network.
The Indian automotive industry has seen significant growth in recent years, with demand for passenger vehicles increasing steadily. This growth has been fueled by rising disposable incomes, urbanization, and a growing middle class. As a result, several automotive companies are expanding their operations in India, and the partnership between Gabriel India and Inalfa is a testament to the market’s potential.
The IGSS plant in Chennai will employ the latest technology and equipment to manufacture sunroofs of different sizes and shapes, catering to the diverse needs of the Indian automotive industry. The plant will also focus on innovation and sustainability, incorporating the latest practices to reduce its environmental footprint.
The IGSS sunroofs will offer several benefits to car owners, including enhanced aesthetics, improved ventilation, and increased natural light. Sunroofs also provide a sense of spaciousness and offer a more enjoyable driving experience. With the Indian market poised for significant growth, the demand for sunroofs is expected to increase significantly, providing a vast opportunity for IGSS.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Gabriel India and Inalfa Roof Systems to form Inalfa Gabriel Sunroof Systems is a significant development for both companies and the Indian automotive industry. The partnership will enable both companies to leverage their strengths to deliver world-class sunroof solutions to the Indian market. With the growing demand for passenger vehicles in India, the partnership is well-positioned to capitalize on the market’s potential and emerge as a leader in the sunroof segment.