Henkel Adhesive Technologies India, a subsidiary of Henkel AG & Co. KgaA (Germany), has commissioned an Innovation Centre. An important investment by the company in India, the innovation centre, will contribute significantly towards Henkel’s strategy 2016 that was announced last year. Some of the key features of ‘strategy 2016’ include frther strengthening competitiveness by focussing on brands, innovations, and customers. By expanding in emerging markets, and leverage strong positions in mature markets. Increasing investments through capex of over 40 %, amounting to a total Euro 2 billion. Ongoing adaptation and simplification of processes and structures, and further strengthening of the global team. Spread across 27,000 sq. ft., the centre would focus on innovative technologies and solutions that will cater to customers across the automotive and transportation industry in South Asia, Middle East and Africa. Strategically located at Pune, the innovation centre is designed to play the role of one stop solution provider to Henkel’s clients in the region.
Containing a dedicated team of product and application experts, who will devise adhesive solutions, optimal application procedures and demonstrate assembly performance under simulated work conditions, the innovation centre is expected to benefit over 800 automotive suppliers and more than 20 manufacturers. Among the facilities at the centre, include customer component testing facilities, dispensing systems, application training, product development and engineering facilities. For the automobile and metal industry portfolio, the laboratory is well equipped with a simulated environment for automotive acoustic structures. The centre also has customized training assistance programs and interactive sessions for customers to equip them with the latest developments and sustainable solutions. Speaking at the inauguration, Jeremy Hunter, President, Henkel India said, “This strategic investment will help strengthen our footprint in India and will provide our wide customer investment will help strengthen our footprint in India and will provide our wide customer base an access to global innovation and better solutions”. “By 2016, Henkel expects to grow sales to 20 billion Euros, of which 10 billion Euros is expected from emerging markets like India”, he added. Shilip Kumar. Business Director, Automotive & Metal SBU, India, Middle East & Africa expressed that R&D has been at the core of Henkel’s leadership in India. “We have grown from strength to strength with consistent focus on customer solutions. This step plays an essential role in building our partnerships across industries by helping customers enhance productivity and significantly reduce operational costs”, he expressed further.
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