Tiruppur has long been recognized for its dynamic, entrepreneurial spirit, emerging as the country’s apparel hub with countless success stories. One such example is Esstee Exports India Private Limited, a company that has earned a stellar reputation for its wide range of ready-to-market fashion merchandise. With an unwavering commitment to premium quality and sustainable manufacturing, Esstee Exports has significantly expanded its footprint, exporting products to key global markets.
In an exclusive interview, N. Thirukkumaran, Chairman of Esstee Exports India Pvt Ltd, reflected on his early entrepreneurial journey: “I hail from the neighboring Erode district. After completing my Diploma in Engineering, I came to Tiruppur in 1987. That was when exports from the city were just beginning to boom. A group of five of us started an apparel manufacturing unit. After a few years, I felt the need to start my own venture. So, in 1992, I exited the partnership and founded Esstee Exports.”
He recalled their humble beginnings, saying, “We started small, worked hard, and gradually grew. Today, we operate 5 units with around 1,500 employees.”
Esstee Exports has made a distinct mark in the market, specializing in custom knitted garments for men, women, and children. “We focus on high fashion, which represents only about 10% of Tiruppur’s market. We add significant value to our products through techniques such as washes, embellishments, and embroidery,” said Thirukkumaran. “We work with several top global brands, offering them unique, high-fashion products. While our client base is limited, it is niche and prestigious.”
Manufacturing Infrastructure
When discussing the company’s manufacturing capabilities, he explained, “We can be considered a semi-vertically integrated company since we don’t yet have spinning and dyeing units. However, we plan to add them soon. At present, we operate five units – two for garmenting, and one each for embroidery, washing, and printing, all located within a 10-15 minute distance from each other. Our production capacity is around 15,000 pieces per day, supported by a workforce of approximately 1,500 personnel.”
Sustainability focus
Sustainability is central to Esstee Exports’ operations. Thirukkumaran highlighted that 80% of their energy consumption is derived from renewable sources, primarily solar and wind. “Our aim is to transition fully to renewable energy in the coming years. Additionally, we employ advanced CAD and 3D modeling technologies to ensure precision in garment design, minimizing fabric waste. We are certified by GOTS, OCS, GRS, OEKO-TEX, BCI & Fair Trade, and we are member of the Textile Exchange. From the beginning, we’ve supported the ‘Vanathakul Tiruppur’ initiative, which seeks to enhance the green cover of Tiruppur.”
The company also places significant emphasis on automation to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and reduce manual intervention. “Automation aligns with our focus on innovation and sustainability. For example, our state-of-the-art printing unit, spanning over 22,000 square feet, handles up to 50,000 impressions daily. We’ve also automated tasks like label, zipper, and pocket attachment to improve efficiency and productivity,” he explained.
Esstee Exports offers a comprehensive range of embroidery services, specializing in advanced techniques such as patches, sequins, chenille, and tuft embroidery. The company also excels in adding intricate, hand-applied details to garments. In-house garment washing options, paired with a dedicated laboratory that tests raw materials, fabrics, garments, and trims, ensure consistent product quality and durability.
Vision for the future
Esstee Exports is deeply invested in corporate social responsibility (CSR). “We’ve always believed in giving back to society,” said Thirukkumaran. “We’ve adopted a nearby government school and contributed to smart classroom for easy & visual learning for the student, constructed a computer laboratory and provided 15 computers with power backup. We regularly conduct various health camps like Eye camps, Dental Camps, General Medical Camps to the people living surrounding of our factory. Also conducted voluntary blood donation camps along with local Rotary Club. In addition, we conducted dedicated ‘Mammogram and pap smear tests (above age of 40) in tie-up with a leading hospital, for our women employees. Also, we have been involved in the ‘Vanathukul Tiruppur’ green initiative from the start. Provided CCTV camera and monitor at the nearest junction for the police surveillance. Moreover we are funding to the needy people for their medical treatments through charitable trusts, funding for students’ education through educational trusts,” he added.
Looking ahead to 2030, Thirukkumaran is clear about his vision: “We don’t believe in chasing turnover. Our primary focus is on delivering value to our customers and fostering long-term relationships. We aim for steady growth of 5% to 10% year-on-year, while continuing to strengthen our sustainability efforts.”
With a strong foundation of quality, sustainability, and innovation, Esstee Exports is poised to achieve its future ambitions while continuing to make a positive impact both locally and globally.
