Klüber Lubrication, a global leader in specialty lubricants, has announced a significant investment of INR 142 crore to expand its operations facility in Mysore. This expansion underscores the company’s commitment to the “Make in India” initiative by boosting domestic production.
The current Mysore plant, spanning 17,000 square meters, produces world-class specialty lubricants. The expansion, set to be completed by early 2027, will add a state-of-the-art production facility equipped with advanced technology tailored to Klüber Lubrication’s specialized needs. This move will also enable the company to achieve new certifications such as IATF for automotive customers and ISO 21469 for food-grade lubricants. Furthermore, the investment will enhance the plant’s R&D infrastructure, accelerating the market introduction of new products.
Groundbreaking Ceremony
A groundbreaking ceremony to commence the expansion project was recently held in Mysore. The event was attended by distinguished members from Freudenberg Chemical Specialities, including Dr. Joerg Matthias Grossmann, Mr. Filip Krulis, and Dr. Sebastian Weiss. Klüber Board members Dr. Wolfgang Sammer and Mr. Markus Murmann, along with Klüber India’s leadership team comprising Mr. Hitendra Bhargava, Mr. Vishal Almal, and Mr. Kanakaraju Thangavel, were also present. Dr. Stefan Seemeyer, Head of Global Product Innovation & Regional Board Member APAC, graced the occasion as well.
Leadership Insights
Hitendra Bhargava, CEO and Regional Management Board Member Asia Pacific at Klüber Lubrication, highlighted the transformative impact of this expansion. “By integrating a new production hall and world-class infrastructure, we aim to offer state-of-the-art specialty products manufactured locally. This initiative aligns with the self-reliance mission (Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan) launched by the Government of India, bringing us closer to our customers in India and the entire APAC region.”
Kanakaraju Thangavel, CTO of Klüber Lubrication India, emphasized the regional benefits. “This investment significantly benefits our customers in Southeast Asia, especially amid recent supply chain challenges due to geopolitical disruptions. It reflects our confidence in the region and our dedication to exceeding customer expectations. We are ready to elevate operations, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to the region’s development.”
Sustainability Focus
The expansion also underscores Klüber Lubrication’s commitment to sustainability. With solar panels installed on the plant’s roof, over half of the facility’s energy needs will be met through renewable sources. The company has consistently been recognized for its sustainability efforts, winning the prestigious EcoVadis gold medal for three consecutive years, placing it in the top 5% of more than 130,000 companies rated worldwide.
Klüber Lubrication, part of Freudenberg Chemical Specialities SE & Co. KG, is a world leader in specialty lubricants, offering high-end tribological solutions to various industries. Established in 1929 in Munich, Klüber Lubrication operates in more than 30 countries with around 2,000 employees. The Indian subsidiary, Klüber Lubrication India Pvt Ltd, was established in 1999 and is headquartered in Bengaluru, with a manufacturing plant and R&D facilities in Mysore.
Freudenberg is a 175-year-old global technology group dedicated to innovative and forward-looking solutions. With operations in around 60 countries, the group employs over 52,000 people and generated sales of about €12 billion in 2023. Freudenberg has a long-standing presence in India, with 15 production sites and around 3,000 employees across 50 locations.