Emerging from the industrial landscape of post-partition Calcutta, KISWOK Industries Pvt Ltd has risen to become a major supplier of automotive components to giants like Tata Motors and Volvo, carving an inspiring journey. With a strong global presence spanning over 20 international markets, and a commitment to sustainability through its ‘Green & Clean Foundry’ policy, it has consistently demonstrated a dedication to quality and innovation, earning prestigious accolades such as the National Trophy Awards for Export Excellence.
His journey proves that with willpower and a focused mindset, extraordinary achievements are possible. He instilled a culture of discipline and punctuality, sharing that “if you don’t value your time, no one will value you.” This philosophy permeated every aspect of the company’s operations, setting a foundation for its future growth.
Raj Kumar Kejriwal, the second generation of the business, joined KISWOK Industries in the early 1970s, steering it towards significant export ventures. Recognizing the need to transition from low-value-added products like road roller castings and pipe fittings, Raj Kejriwal initiated the establishment of a new, automated foundry in 2000. This strategic move marked KISWOK’s entry into the high-value automotive component sector, reflecting a forward-thinking approach that continues to define the company.
Mayank R Kejriwal, the third-generation Managing Director, makes KISWOK’s story strong proof of dedication, commitment, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, rooted in the foundational principles laid down by his grandfather, the late Shyam Sundar Kejriwal.
After completing his mechanical engineering from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor in 2003,he joined the family business. His return coincided with the launch of the new automotive component foundry, pushing KISWOK into a new era of growth and technological advancement. “We came from a very conservative family,“and my grandfather was a very strict person. That upbringing really shaped how we run the company.” Mr R Kejriwal shares.
Continuing Journey of Expansion and Excellence
KISWOK’s initial success was built on the foundation of exporting low-value-added products. However, the company’s vision extended beyond mere manufacturing. Mr Kejriwal’s travels abroad highlighted the need to elevate KISWOK’s offerings. The shift to automotive components was not just a business decision but a strategic move to establish Kiswok as a leader in high-quality, precision-based manufacturing.
In 2010, KISWOK embarked on a journey of continuous improvement by joining the Atma cluster program, transitioning from mere manufacturing to “excellence in manufacturing.” This initiative introduced lean manufacturing principles, preventive maintenance, and organized processes, transforming its operational efficiency. Further solidifying their capabilities, KISWOK recently completed a program on engineering, now proudly claiming “excellence in engineering” alongside their manufacturing prowess.
Mayank R Kejriwal is a staunch advocate for technology and digitization. Recognizing the importance of agility and responsiveness in today’s information-driven world, KISWOK implemented Industry 4.0 and IoT six years ago. This technological leap enabled real-time data collection and analysis, driving continuous improvement and informed decision-making. “What you measure, it improves,” Mayank shares. “What you don’t measure, never improves.”
KISWOK’s commitment to innovation extends beyond technology. The company emphasizes low-cost automation, focusing on optimizing existing processes and eliminating inefficiencies. “In India, even if you look at the basics of testers, there are so many gaps in it,” Mayank explains. “You just simply remove those gaps. You can reduce manpower like anything. It does not require any effort and neither a lot of spending of money as well.” The company’s approach to problem-solving is rooted in the concept of CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Action). KISWOK applies CAPA to every aspect of its operations, ensuring that mistakes are not just corrected but also prevented. This systematic approach has significantly reduced recurring issues, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
KISWOK’s success is not just attributed to its technological advancements but also to its strong company culture. The company treats its employees, customers, and suppliers as equal stakeholders, fostering a collaborative and respectful environment. “What really differentiates us from other people is the culture in the company,” Mayank shares. “We look at them all equally. They’re all equal stakeholders, and you all have to treat them with respect, and we have to genuinely care for them.”
The company’s focus on worker ergonomics and safety is evident in its plant design. Everything moves in bins and is palletized, minimizing physical strain on employees. This attention to detail reflects KISWOK’s commitment to creating a comfortable and efficient working environment KISWOK is currently undergoing a massive expansion plan, aiming to increase its capacity from 6,500 tons to 15,000 tons per month within the next one and a half years. This expansion reflects the company’s confidence in its future and its commitment to meeting the growing demands of the automotive industry.
“Better every day in every way” is KISWOK’s tagline, encapsulating the company’s philosophy of continuous improvement. By embracing technology, fostering a culture of discipline and collaboration, and remaining committed to quality, KISWOK Industries is poised to continue its legacy of excellence in the Indian manufacturing landscape.
