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In an exclusive interview with Industry Outlook, Manish Bansal, CEO & Director of Window Magic, shares how recent trends and innovations have developed the Indian fenestration industry. He holds a degree from the University of Kent in Canterbury, United Kingdom. He is a successful business leader who excels in the building and construction equipment market. He also played a vital part in making Window Magic a lucrative venture. His strong vision, adherence to quality standards, and market and customer foresight provided new insights into Window Magic as a firm.
If we look at the recent trends in the Indian fenestration industry, it reflects global shifts towards advanced technologies and innovative products. Over the past two decades, there has been a notable transition from traditional wooden doors and windows to innovative door and window systems towards prefabricated units, be it aluminum or uPVC. Both aluminum and uPVC are gaining ground in commercial and residential applications for their versatility, customization options, eco-friendliness and a host of other factors...
Additionally, architects appreciate aluminum for its ability to accommodate large dimensions and its range of colors and finishes, allowing for tailored solutions. Technological integration is also a key trend, with digital locks and motorized mechanisms enhancing door functionalities. Innovations such as motorized mesh systems offer increased durability and performance against environmental factors. So to see it from a wholesome perspective, the fenestration industry in India is witnessing a significant shift towards advanced technologies and materials, which is further coupled with the evolving consumer preferences and global trends.
Today, cultural preferences and architectural styles among Indian consumers have been playing a significant role in influencing the choice between uPVC, aluminum, and wooden fenestrations. While cultural considerations may not directly dictate preferences, factors such as geography and climate heavily influence consumer decisions.
In regions with extreme weather conditions, such as the northern parts of India experiencing snow and cold temperatures, uPVC fenestrations are highly favored due to their superior insulation properties. Similarly, in coastal areas like Goa, parts of Mumbai, and South India, where humidity and salt exposure are prevalent, uPVC remains a popular choice for its resistance to corrosion and deterioration. Therefore, rather than solely cultural influences, it is the geographical location and environmental factors that predominantly shape the selection of fenestration materials among Indian consumers.
In India, governmental support for the fenestration industry remains relatively neutral compared to Western counterparts. Unlike many developed nations where governments have established clear guidelines for energy efficiency standards in construction, India has yet to formalize such regulations extensively. While efforts are underway within the industry to advocate for standardized ratings and specifications akin to those in Europe or the USA, significant progress is still needed.
Having said that, the Indian Government’s proactive approach towards incorporating high-quality and cutting-edge technological products in innovative projects really marks a departure from the past, where governmental organizations were typically slower to adopt new technologies. Examples like the Central Vista project can be an example that showcases the integration of state-of-the-art fenestration solutions. As our country continues on its positive growth pathway, we can be certain that guidelines and support mechanisms backed by the government for the fenestration industry will evolve further in a steadfast manner.
It is good to see that India is witnessing a shift towards sustainable and energy-efficient solutions, prompting the players in the fenestration sector to make themselves aware of various strategies that can help in capitalizing on the trend.
One notable approach involves enhancing organizational sustainability practices. For instance, some companies, like ours, have taken proactive steps to become more sustainable internally. This includes initiatives such as maximizing the use of solar power for electricity consumption, utilizing recycled materials such as paper, and ensuring proper waste disposal through accredited channels.
Moreover, fenestration companies are focusing on developing products that align with sustainability goals. For example, uPVC profiles often carry a green certification, which certifies they are lead-free or there are no harmful elements in the product, and also, no harmful gases are released into the environment during the production phase.
These certifications depict the eco-friendly nature of the raw materials used and the minimal environmental impact during both the production process and the lifecycle of the final windows. We can sum it up by saying that many companies are beginning to integrate sustainability into their practices and product offerings today. But, there is still room for further focus and development in this area.
Reflecting on the preferences between Indian and Western consumers regarding fenestration materials, it's clear there's a divide in awareness and prioritization. While some segments in India, particularly in the B2C sector, are growing more conscious of energy efficiency, the overall level of awareness still lags behind that of the West. Despite initiatives like IGBC promoting energy-efficient practices, Indian consumers often don't prioritize energy efficiency and maintenance as highly. However, as awareness increases, I anticipate a shift towards the prioritization seen in Western markets, signaling a move towards greater sustainability.
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