In 1989, the Indian manufacturing landscape witnessed a much needed innovation that would change the PU foam industry forever. Arnav Puri, the current Director of A.S. Enterprises India, reflects on a legacy built by his grandfather, who saw a glaring gap in the market and took bold steps to fill it.
Born into a family of entrepreneurs, Arnav grew up witnessing the hard work and determination that shaped A.S. Enterprises. Established in 1989 by his grandfather, the company revolutionized the PU foam industry by manufacturing India’s first carousel cutting machine. Arnav embraces this rich heritage as the foundation of his leadership style, combining traditional values with modern strategies.
Back in the late 1980s, the PU foam industry in India heavily relied on imported German machinery, which came at exorbitant prices. Realizing the pressing need for affordable yet efficient alternatives, Arnav’s grandfather embarked on a challenging journey. With a vision to empower local businesses and make the industry more self-reliant, he designed and manufactured India’s first carousel cutting machine in 1989.
“Our family already had a foam factory at the time,” Arnav shares. “My grandfather studied the German machines, identified ways to replicate their functionality, and decided to create a more cost-effective solution—at nearly one-fourth the price.” Armed with determination and support from two workmen, the first functional machine was crafted, marking the beginning of A.S. Enterprises’ legacy.
Expanding Horizons
Today, A.S. Enterprises stands as a pioneer in the PU foam industry, offering a diverse range of products including batch foam machines, continuous foaming plants, and various cutting machines tailored for the mattress and bedding sector. Reflecting on their journey, Arunav notes, “We’ve been serving the industry for 35 years, and our goal remains to provide innovative, high-quality solutions that help businesses grow.”
Looking ahead, the company is not content with resting on its laurels. Arnav reveals ambitious plans to compete with global manufacturers, including German and Chinese players. “We’re expanding into other foam industries like EP and XCL foam. While it’s tough to match Chinese machines on price, we’re confident in outshining them on quality,” he states .Like any pioneering venture, the journey of A.S. Enterprises have been marked by hurdles. Arnav recounts the initial struggles faced by his grandfather. “When you’re introducing something new, it’s hard to gain trust. With no prior machines to showcase or a proper workspace, selling that first machine was an uphill battle. ”A breakthrough came when a foam factory owner took a chance, offering an advance to develop the first circular cutting machine. This trust fueled their efforts, enabling them to refine their designs and prove their capabilities. “Even today, challenges are our biggest teachers. Every mistake is a lesson we ensure never to repeat,” says Arnav.
For Arnav, A.S. Enterprises is more than a business; it’s a living example to the indomitable spirit of Indian ingenuity. As he continues to lead the company into new territories, his vision is clear: to make A.S. Enterprises is a global name synonymous with quality and innovation. “Carrying forward my grandfather’s legacy isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a privilege. My dream is to see Indian manufacturing set benchmarks on a global scale, and I know we’re getting closer every day,” he says with quiet determination.
Under Arnav Puri’s inspired leadership, A.S. Enterprises are not just building machines; it’s building a future where Indian manufacturing stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the world’s best, proving that innovation knows no boundaries.
