Swiss group Bühler is set to make a substantial investment of CHF 21 million (Rs 200 crore) over the next two to three years in India. The investment is part of the company’s strategic plan to enhance its manufacturing capabilities in the country and address the growing demands of a flourishing domestic market and customers abroad.
Prashant Gokhale, Managing Director, Bühler India, highlighted the significance of this investment. He said, “This investment is not only about growth; it is about combining Bühler’s state-of-the-art technologies with local expertise to offer the most sustainable processes and solutions to our customers.”
The company also plans to hire about 300 employees over the next two to three years as part of its growth strategy.
The decision to expand its investments in India marks a significant milestone in Bühler Group’s 30-year journey in the country, which began with the establishment of Bühler India in Bengaluru. Over the years, Bühler India has evolved into one of the company’s leading global technology centres, boasting manufacturing infrastructure, research and development teams, application centers, and training facilities.
Bühler India, currently employing 600 people, has been a key player in manufacturing high-quality grain and food processing equipment for customers both within India and internationally. Over the past three years, the company’s business has experienced remarkable growth, with a consistent annual increase of more than 10 per cent.
In August 2022, Bühler India achieved a significant milestone by initiating the local production of Sortex color sorters. This move not only enhances the accessibility of crucial technology for the grains and food industries but also contributes to improved food quality and safety. The company has also been providing retrofitting and refurbishing services for existing Sortex machines.
Expanding its product portfolio further, Bühler India has already commenced the production of Square Plansifter Areniter MPAV, a vital component in the flour production process used in wheat, rye, maize, and durum mills. Additionally, core machines such as purifiers and roller mills are in the pipeline, scheduled to be made available to customers by 2024.
Presently, Bühler India’s Bengaluru premises, covering 32,000 square metres, serve as the company’s headquarters, a manufacturing hub, and an Application & Training Center (ATC) that caters to multiple industrial applications. The ATC provides a platform for customers to conduct product and equipment trials, optimise processes, and receive training across all operational levels.
Johannes Wick, CEO Grains & Food at Bühler Group, emphasised the benefits of these new solutions produced in India. He said, “With these new solutions produced in India, customers will benefit in multiple ways: shorter delivery times, increased supply chain efficiency, and an improved CO2e footprint for their equipment.”
