Founded in 1968, Rupa & Company Limited has grown from a small knitwear brand into a major force in the Indian and global fashion industry. Known for its diverse range of products, from innerwear to outerwear, Rupa continues to blend tradition with innovation. With a commitment to sustainability and a focus on meeting the demands of style-conscious consumers, the company has established itself as a leader in the industry. In this interview, Mr. Ramesh Agarwal, Whole-Time Director of Rupa & Company Limited, shares insights into the company’s journey, recent innovations, and future growth plans.
A Journey Rooted in Quality and Innovation
Rupa’s origins date back to 1968, starting as a modest knitwear brand that has since transformed into a household name in fashion. Driven by its core values of quality, innovation, and customer delight, the company has continually evolved to meet changing market demands. Today, Rupa’s product portfolio extends beyond innerwear to include outerwear, activewear, and winterwear, catering to the style-conscious Gen Z and millennials. By combining sustainability with trendsetting designs, Rupa is not just growing but leading the fashion game in India and beyond.
Expansive Product Portfolio
At the heart of Rupa’s success is its extensive product range. Known for its exceptional innerwear, the company offers a variety of products for men, women, kids, and infants. Beyond innerwear, Rupa has diversified into outerwear, including trendy t-shirts, polos, and loungewear. The activewear line merges performance with style, appealing to the modern consumer. Additionally, the company’s thermal wear range, including its popular Rupa Thermocot and Torrido brands, provides warmth without compromising on comfort. Brands such as Frontline, Jon, Euro, Colors, Peek-a-Boo, Bumchums, Femmora, and Softline showcase Rupa’s dedication to fashion innovation.
Manufacturing Infrastructure
Rupa’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities play a key role in its success. With locations in Domjur, Tirupur, Ghaziabad, and Bengaluru, the company produces over 700,000 garments daily. Spread across 850,000 sq. ft., Rupa’s warehouse serves both domestic and export markets. The company uses advanced technologies such as CNC and CAD systems for precision cutting and the Spectraflash SF450 for accurate color matching, ensuring high-quality products. By blending innovation with sustainability, Rupa delivers premium innerwear, outerwear, and activewear to customers around the world.
Future Investments
Rupa’s growth trajectory has been bolstered by significant investments in expanding its manufacturing capacity and improving operational efficiency. Over the past five years, the company has upgraded its facilities with advanced technology, moving towards full automation. This transition has not only increased production capacity but also enhanced product quality. Looking ahead, Rupa plans to continue investing in technology and infrastructure, with a focus on eco-friendly practices. These initiatives are aimed at meeting growing demand and cementing Rupa’s position as a leader in the apparel industry.
Product Innovations
Recent product innovations at Rupa include moisture-wicking fabrics, breathable materials, and 3D knitting technology that allows for seamless designs. The company has also embraced eco-friendly processes, incorporating organic materials and water-efficient dyeing methods. With daily production exceeding 700,000 garments, Rupa’s commitment to innovation is evident in every piece. The company’s fully automated operations ensure efficiency, while strict quality control systems, such as AQL Level 1 standards, maintain high product standards.
Growing Export Markets
Rupa’s primary focus remains the Indian market, which accounts for approximately 98% of its revenue. The company has a strong presence in general trade, e-commerce, and retail. However, Rupa is also expanding its global footprint, with key export markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia. This international expansion provides new growth opportunities while reinforcing Rupa’s core business in India.
Unique Advantages
Rupa stands out in a crowded market by offering more than just clothing — it delivers a lifestyle. The company’s comprehensive product range covers innerwear, outerwear, activewear, and thermal wear, ensuring every consumer segment is catered to. Rupa’s forward-thinking approach to fashion, such as introducing digital-printed underwear and the Peek-a-Boo collection for infants, sets it apart from competitors. The company’s commitment to sustainability, from using eco-friendly dyes to water-efficient processes, further differentiates Rupa as a brand that blends style, comfort, and environmental responsibility.
Rupa has experienced impressive financial growth in recent years. In FY 2023-24, the company’s consolidated turnover reached approximately ₹1,217 crore, a 6.4% increase from the previous year. EBITDA rose by 32% to ₹117 crore, and Profit After Tax (PAT) increased by 30% to ₹70 crore. This growth reflects Rupa’s ability to adapt and seize opportunities in both domestic and international markets.
Focus on Sustainability
Sustainability is a core element of Rupa’s business strategy. The company has implemented innovative green technologies to reduce water and energy consumption, and it is committed to responsible sourcing. Rupa’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives focus on education, healthcare, and environmental conservation, with ₹3.64 crore allocated to CSR activities in FY 2023-24. These efforts underscore the company’s belief that true growth is achieved when both society and the environment thrive together.
Vision for 2030
Looking to the future, Rupa envisions itself as a global leader in fashion by 2030, driven by a combination of style, sustainability, and technology. The company aims to be the go-to brand for comfort and eco-friendly innovations, while continuing to set trends in both the Indian and international markets.
Rupa & Company’s journey from a modest knitwear brand to a leader in the fashion industry is a testament to its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. With a diverse product range, cutting-edge manufacturing capabilities, and a vision for future growth, Rupa is poised to continue making its mark on the global fashion landscape. As the company looks ahead to 2030, its focus on blending tradition with modernity ensures that it will remain a trusted brand for generations to come.
