Mayer & Cie, a global leader in circular knitting machines, has been at the forefront of textile machinery innovation for decades. With a strong presence in India for over 40 years through its partnership with Batliboi, the company has played a significant role in advancing the Indian knitting industry. In this exclusive interview, Timo Schramm, Area Sales Manager at Mayer & Cie, and Abhay Sidham, CEO of Batliboi Textile Machinery Division, discuss the company’s journey, technological advancements, and future outlook in the Indian market.
A Challenging Yet Productive 2024 for Mayer & Cie
The year 2024 posed several challenges for mechanical and textile engineering companies globally. Mayer & Cie closed the year with a lower-than-average production of circular knitting machines. However, despite the difficulties, the company remained committed to research and development. Their relentless efforts led to the launch of several innovations, including the high-speed Interlock machine D4-4.4, the optical defect detection system Knithawk, Control 5.0, and Knitlink, an integrated hub for machine information and services. Additionally, in their braiding business, Mayer & Cie successfully produced and shipped its first MR-11 model equipped with 48 carriers, marking a significant milestone.
Mayer & Cie’s Journey in India: A 40-Year Legacy
Mayer & Cie has had a longstanding presence in India, spanning over four decades. Through its partnership with Batliboi, the company has firmly established itself in the Indian textile industry. From being a representative, Batliboi evolved into a strategic partner, contributing significantly to Mayer & Cie’s success in India. The collaboration has ensured that the company’s advanced knitting machines reach Indian manufacturers with strong after-sales support and technical expertise.
India has become a crucial market for Mayer & Cie, with Batliboi providing valuable market insights, assisting in development trials, and helping establish successful product lines like the S4 and D4 series. The company has built a strong service network, not only for India but also for Southeast Asia, enhancing its global footprint.
Innovative Product Offerings for the Indian Market
Mayer & Cie has continuously adapted its products to meet the evolving demands of the Indian textile sector. The S4-3.2 II circular knitting machine has been a consistent bestseller, particularly in the Tiruppur region. Known for its superior quality and efficiency, this machine has set high standards in knitwear production.
To help customers maximize their investments, Mayer & Cie provides multiple upgrade kits that enhance machine performance, increase reliability, and reduce downtime. A notable upgrade is the high-performance yarn guide for the S4-3.2 II, which ensures flawless elastomeric plating at maximum machine speeds.
A Strong Local Partnership with Batliboi
Batliboi’s role in supporting Indian customers is instrumental in Mayer & Cie’s success. The company’s local team consists of experienced technicians who are well-versed with Mayer & Cie machines and provide prompt technical assistance. Furthermore, Batliboi maintains a dedicated spare parts warehouse, ensuring that essential components are readily available, minimizing machine downtime and maximizing productivity.
The Mayer & Cie Advantage
In a highly competitive market, Mayer & Cie distinguishes itself with its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. The durability and consistency of its machines make them a preferred choice among textile manufacturers. Despite rising energy and labor costs, the company maintains a balance between premium quality and affordability through engineering excellence and digital advancements.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
With sustainability becoming a priority for brands and manufacturers worldwide, Mayer & Cie has taken proactive steps to reduce its environmental footprint. The company has introduced the improved Relanit 3.2 HS II machine, which incorporates new spring sinker technology to lower energy consumption and carbon emissions.
Digitalization also plays a crucial role in sustainability efforts. Mayer & Cie’s Knithawk system, an optical defect detection tool, ensures that any knitting errors are detected immediately, preventing wastage of fabric and materials.
Comprehensive After-Sales Service and Support
Mayer & Cie offers a robust after-sales support system in India, including an online webshop for easy ordering of spare parts. Customers can register their machines and access tailored recommendations, ensuring they receive the right components. The company’s upgrade and conversion kits further add value, allowing customers to enhance their machines’ longevity and performance.
The Mayer & Cie Loyalty Club provides additional benefits, such as attractive pricing on spare parts packages and exclusive discounts on upgrades.
India’s Growth Potential in the Textile Industry
India’s rapidly expanding economy and increasing prominence in global supply chains make it a vital market for Mayer & Cie. The country is not only a major textile consumer but also an emerging export hub. The demand for synthetic yarn knitwear is growing rapidly, positioning India as a key player in the global textile and knitting industry.
While traditional hubs like Tiruppur continue to dominate, newer regions such as Surat are emerging as strong centers for knitwear production. Mayer & Cie is committed to supporting this growth by providing cutting-edge technology, expert guidance, and reliable after-sales service.
Mayer & Cie’s legacy of innovation, combined with its strong partnership with Batliboi, has cemented its position as a leader in the Indian circular knitting industry. With a focus on sustainability, automation, and continuous technological advancements, the company is well-equipped to navigate future challenges and opportunities. As India’s textile sector continues to expand, Mayer & Cie remains committed to empowering manufacturers with state-of-the-art solutions that drive efficiency, quality, and long-term success.