In a significant move that signals further growth and commitment to the Indian toy sector, Funskool India Ltd., a leading figure in the toy manufacturing industry, has broadened the horizons of its production with an impressive expansion at its facility located in Ranipet. This expansion comes with the addition of 1,63,000 sq. ft to its existing premises, effectively intensifying the company’s operational base.
The enhancement of the production capacity took place in two stages: unit 1 and unit 2. This has culminated in a marked increase in the production area. With this recent addition, the overall area covered by Funskool’s facilities at Ranipet now spans an impressive 3,00,595 sq. ft. Furthermore, complementing this spatial growth, Funskool maintains a significant manufacturing presence with its original plant in Goa, which accounts for 1,62,664 square feet as well. This strategic move was announced amidst affirmative statements made by the MRF group firm, the parent company behind Funskool.
The ceremonial inauguration of the upscaled facilities was marked by the presence of Arun Mammen, Funskool India’s Chairman, who also serves as the Vice Chairman and Managing Director of MRF. On this occasion, Mammen addressed the attendees, stating, “Funskool India has experienced remarkable growth over the years. With this expansion, we solidify our position as a leader in India’s toy industry and move closer to our goal of transforming India into a global hub for toy manufacturing.”
Highlighting the company’s dedication to national manufacturing initiatives, R. Jaswant, CEO of Funskool India, emphasized the strong alignment with the ‘Make in India’ campaign. He pointed out that the expansion is a testament to the company’s enduring commitment to cater not only to the burgeoning domestic market demands but also to broader export possibilities.
The expanded facilities now boast the capability to produce an extensive variety of toys. The range has been diversified to include both plastic and wooden toys, catering to varied consumer preferences and market trends. Notably, a specialized wing for the manufacture of wooden toys has been initiated within the expanded campus, underpinning Funskool’s strategic objectives that reflect growth and innovation within their product lines.
K.A. Shabir, who serves as the Vice President of Funskool’s Manufacturing & International Division, elaborated on the company’s endeavors and success in the international market. “Funskool is now a preferred OEM supplier for international toy brands, and we are proud that Funskool’s own brands are now being exported to over 35 countries,” he mentioned, signaling the firm’s increasing footprint in the global toy industry.
The tour de force of an expansion that Funskool India has undertaken is not only a statement of growth for the company but also reflects a broader national economic ambition. It represents India’s push to position itself as a significant player in the global toy market. In an industry often dominated by manufacturers from other countries, Funskool’s move serves as a catalyst for India’s toy industry and aims to inspire other companies to scale up their production capacities and achieve international standards of quality and innovation.
With the potential to generate employment, stimulate ancillary industries, and enhance export capability, Funskool’s latest expansion is poised to create a ripple effect across the Indian manufacturing ecosystem. It stands as a testament to the viability and potential of Indian manufacturing in the competitive global landscape, particularly within the niche but substantial toy manufacturing sector.
This substantial investment by Funskool India is a signpost pointing towards a future where Indian-made toys are not just a domestic staple, but also a global presence – a testament to India’s burgeoning role as a manufacturing powerhouse in the fast-moving, imaginative world of toys and games.