Almost one and a half years back, Narinder Chugh was not much aware about the garmenting business…, but now his company – Million Exporter, Ludhiana has been recognized by Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) with the prestigious award – Highest Global Exports By New Entrepreneur.
Earlier engaged in running the family business of tyre trading in Ludhiana, Narinder had interest in fashion, and one and a half years back he took Rama Krishna Knitters on lease and struggled a lot to understand and improve systems at the factory, for which he made several changes. “Things were really difficult for me as at the age of 53, I had to become a student to learn all about garmenting. I continuously worked and understood the minutes of garment trade, which is very tempting, and I love this business. ‘Make in India’ campaign also motivated me a lot. We hired good professionals from other organizations and kept the focus on improving. As the unit already had systems in place, it helped me a lot; but the thing that I had to improve was the way of working. I think everything from a customer’s perspective rather than an exporter or production manager. This approach is appreciated by my buyers too,” Narinder shared with Apparel Resources.
Also Read – Indian apparel exporter KG Exports to invest US $ 9 million in new unit
Talking about the changes he brought to the organization, Narinder said, “Earlier the company was exporting mainly to Dubai and that too economical products only, but I felt strongly that exports to the US will be a better option, and that not just because it is a traditional market for Indian apparel export industry. I upgraded the products as well,” adding, “I was expecting Donald Trumph’s victory and hopes for its positive effects on India as he supports the country. Exports to the US will grow more compared to any other main market across the globe.”
Currently having 900 stitching machines and an annual turnover of Rs. 60.5 crore, the company has enough orders for the next six months. Narinder further added that his next move is to focus on Indian domestic apparel market and to work with organized and established brands. “Our samples have already been approved or are in the process of approval by some of the prestigious apparel brands like Allen Solly, Van Heusen, Color Plus. We have the advantage of having state-of-the-art manufacturing unit.” With the daily capacity of 35,000 pieces of hoodies, jackets, track suits, etc., Million Exporter has recently started manufacturing kidswear too. Currently, the company is exporting 70 per cent of its garments, and depending upon the response from domestic brands, it will decide to expand its production capacity.