Confidence Automation Sets New Standards for SMEs in Precision Machinery

Milan Goswami
Milan Goswami, the founder and Managing Director of Confidence Automation

Confidence Automation Pvt Ltd stands at one of the forefronts of India’s refurbished machine tool sector, delivering cutting-edge solutions that combine quality, affordability, and precision. Since its inception in 2013, the company has become a trusted partner for manufacturers across industries, bridging the gap between expensive imported machines and cost-effective alternatives.

Milan Goswami, the founder and Managing Director of Confidence Automation, is a first-generation entrepreneur whose journey epitomizes determination, innovation, and vision. Born and raised in Rajkot, Gujarat, Mr Goswami was drawn to the mechanical engineering field early in life, influenced by his passion for machines and industrial processes.

After earning his degree in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA in Marketing and Finance, he began his career at India’s Big Machine tool manufacturer, where he gained invaluable experience in the machine tool industry. Working closely with high-end CNC machines, Mr Goswami developed an acute understanding of market dynamics and recognized an unmet demand for affordable, high-quality refurbished machinery.

In 2013, driven by a desire to innovate and fill this gap, Milan took a leap of faith, investing his provident fund savings of ₹3.25 lakhs to establish Confidence Automation. Starting with a small 10×10 rented office, his journey was marked by resourcefulness and resilience. Initial operations focused on trading accessories and spares, but Mr Goswami quickly expanded into refurbishing high-end CNC machines like Horizontal Machining Centers (HMCs), 5-axis machines, and double-column machines and Multi-Tasking machines.

Unlike conventional CNC equipment, these machines cater to niche applications in industries requiring extreme precision and durability. By refurbishing and reselling premium Japanese brands like DMG, Makino Mazak and Fanuc, Confidence Automation created a unique value proposition for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) unable to afford new machines priced at ₹2 crore or more. “Our focus has always been on reliability, performance, and affordability,” says Mr Goswami. By sourcing and restoring premium machines to “like-new” conditions, Confidence Automation has gained the trust of a growing customer base. Today, 60% of the company’s business comes from repeat customers—an example to its unwavering commitment to quality and service.

With a current capacity of 25 refurbished machines per month, Confidence Automation operates out of a 12,000 sq. ft. facility and is constructing a 50,000 sq. ft amazing workshop to meet rising demand. The company has also ventured into limited component manufacturing, producing critical parts such as spindles and LM guideways to enhance the refurbishment process. While the company’s primary focus remains on refurbishing, he envisions future expansion into full-fledged manufacturing to complement his offerings.

The journey was not without its hurdles. He faced skepticism from potential clients early on, who doubted the quality of refurbished machines. Financial constraints also posed challenges, as Mr Goswami started small, initially relying on outsourced workshops to meet orders. Through persistence and dedication, Milan overcame these barriers, building a thriving enterprise with a turnover of ₹25 crore. His business model has drawn comparisons to the pre-owned luxury car market, where refurbished products deliver exceptional value at a fraction of the cost.

Looking ahead, Confidence Automation aims to solidify its position as a leader in the refurbished machine tools market while gradually expanding its manufacturing footprint. By staying ahead of technological advancements and maintaining its focus on customer satisfaction, the company is poised for exponential growth. Reflecting on his journey, Mr Goswami attributes his success to hard work, integrity, and an unwavering belief in his vision. Confidence Automation’s story is an inspiring example of how innovation and resilience can transform industries, empowering SMEs and contributing to India’s manufacturing ecosystem. With a legacy rooted in quality and innovation, Confidence Automation continues to shape the future of machine tools, setting benchmarks for excellence in the industry.