Godrej Consumer Products Limited (GCPL), a leading emerging markets FMCG company, has launched its first integrated greenfield plant in Chengalpattu District, near Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The new facility was inaugurated by the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru M. K. Stalin, alongside Nadir Godrej, Chairperson of Godrej Industries Group, and Sudhir Sitapati, MD & CEO of Godrej Consumer Products Limited. The plant officially commenced operations with the ceremonial activation of the production line by the Chief Minister, who marked the occasion by initiating the first production run. This milestone saw the rollout of the inaugural Cinthol Original soap bar, symbolising the plant's successful launch.
In 2024, GCPL conducted the groundbreaking ceremony for this state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu, committing an investment of approximately Rs 515 crore over five years. This marks GCPL's largest single investment aimed at enhancing its production capabilities. Spanning 27 acres, the facility was constructed in a record time of just 13 months.
Commenting on the plant's inauguration, Nadir Godrej, Chairperson of Godrej Industries Group, stated, "The Chengalpattu plant stands as a testament to Godrej Consumer Products' unwavering commitment to shaping the future of manufacturing, where innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity seamlessly converge. This cutting-edge facility not only supports our mission to deliver high-quality products to consumers but also places a strong emphasis on the well-being and diversity of our workforce. With 50 per cent women and 5 per cent representation from people with disabilities (PWD) and LGBTQIA+ communities, we are proud of our ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment. At Godrej, we believe that the future of manufacturing lies in empowering people and protecting the planet, driving sustainable growth for all."
Thiru M. K. Stalin, Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, remarked, "Tamil Nadu has always prioritised progress through strategic investments, strong infrastructure, and a commitment to employment generation and women's empowerment. The establishment of Godrej Consumer Products' first integrated factory in Chengalpattu marks a significant milestone in this journey. By choosing Tamil Nadu as the base for their facility, Godrej is not only contributing to the state's economic advancement but also reinforcing our commitment to fostering industries that drive innovation, create jobs, and uplift communities. Together, we are shaping a future where growth and inclusivity go hand in hand."
Dr T.R.B. Rajaa, Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion, and Commerce, Tamil Nadu, added, "We are immensely proud of this new facility and extend our gratitude to Godrej Consumer Products for choosing to establish it in Tamil Nadu. This facility embodies several key pillars of the M. K. Stalin era of Dravidian Model growth. It is a smart manufacturing facility that aligns with Tamil Nadu's vision for advanced manufacturing. Moreover, the facility places DEI at its core, with plans to employ 50% women and 5% of employees from LGBTQIA+ communities and persons with disabilities—an ethos that resonates with Tamil Nadu's vision of inclusive and equitable industrial growth. Furthermore, the facility was swiftly operationalised in a record 13 months, demonstrating our commitment to efficient governance."
Sudhir Sitapati, MD & CEO of Godrej Consumer Products Limited (GCPL), further noted, "The Chengalpattu plant represents a transformational shift in our manufacturing capabilities, serving as GCPL's first fully integrated facility under one roof. This advanced facility will produce products from some of our best-selling brands, including Cinthol, Godrej No.1, GoodKnight, Godrej Aer, and Godrej Expert Hair Colour. We anticipate that this factory will generate INR 1,500 crore in turnover once all planned production lines are fully operational. Beyond serving as a manufacturing hub, this facility is set to be a key driver of innovation, productivity, and sustainability, positioning GCPL for continued growth and success in the future. We commend the Tamil Nadu government for its progressive and forward-thinking vision, which has enabled us to achieve this milestone."
Saurabh Jhawar, Head of the Product Supply Organisation for India & SAARC at Godrej Consumer Products Limited (GCPL), added, "Designed with cutting-edge automation and digitisation, the plant features highly automated, high-speed production lines that operate two to four times faster than our current lines, significantly enhancing production efficiency. The facility will integrate Industry 4.0 technologies, including IoT for real-time data analytics, AI, and machine learning, to optimise processes."
The plant has created over 1,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities across various functions, positively impacting both the local community and the business. Employees from LGBTQIA+ and people with disabilities communities will take on essential shop-floor operational roles, such as machine operators, as well as positions in the quality and engineering departments. This ensures their integration into key functions, allowing them to contribute directly to the plant's operations. The facility's design reflects GCPL's vision for the future, featuring accessibility elements such as gender-neutral washrooms and comprehensive infrastructure tailored for individuals with disabilities, ensuring that every employee can thrive in an equitable environment.
In line with GCPL's broader sustainability goals, the facility has been designed with a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility, adhering to the guidelines of the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC).
