Our vision is to redefine denim as a lifestyle essential
Vishal Fabrics Limited is a leading player in the textile industry and a key member of the India-based Chiripal Group. Established in 1985, the company has been at the forefront of denim innovation and fabric processing, specialising in high-quality stretch denim, 100 per cent cotton, and blended fabrics. With two advanced manufacturing units—Dholi Unit (90 MMPA) and Narol Plant (105 MMPA)—Vishal Fabrics is contributing significantly to India’s textile sector and aligning with the government’s export vision. Speaking to Fibre2Fashion, Chief Executive Officer Suketu Shah shares insights into the company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, global expansion, and the future of textile manufacturing.
Vishal Fabrics has a strong presence in denim manufacturing. What are some of the latest innovations the company is bringing to this segment?
Vishal Fabrics places a strong emphasis on innovation and has been at the forefront of producing wider-width fabrics, setting the company apart from its competitors. As a leading denim manufacturer, we consistently deliver exceptional-quality denim, reflecting our commitment to excellence in every stitch. Our continuous focus on innovation and customer satisfaction drives us to enhance and expand our product range while optimising operations through automation. By embracing technology and sustainable practices, we are constantly innovating to refine our manufacturing processes and improve our products. India’s textile industry can strengthen its competitive edge in the global market only through continuous innovation, research, and development.
Sustainability is a key focus in the textile industry today. How is Vishal Fabrics incorporating sustainable practices in its production processes?
At Vishal Fabrics, sustainability is the most critical element in everything we do. We establish goals to minimise our environmental footprint, monitor progress, and involve stakeholders to ensure that we continue improving. Sustainability is ingrained in our company culture, promoting long-term change. Our actions transcend compliance, enabling us to create strong partnerships. By giving preference to environmentally safe practices, we support India’s energy requirements while ensuring environmental protection for a greener future.
With the growing demand for eco-friendly textiles, is Vishal Fabrics investing in new materials or technologies to reduce environmental impact?
Yes, Vishal Fabrics is investing in sustainable materials and technologies to minimise its environmental impact. The company utilises advanced digital and nanotechnology to enhance the durability of its production processes. Additionally, it recycles excess cotton fibres into products such as denim bags, mats, and covers, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy. Innovations in automation, knitting, pleating, and quality control further maximise efficiency and support exports. As the textile industry evolves, it continues to grow while embracing greener practices.
With sustainability regulations tightening worldwide, how is your company ensuring compliance with international standards and certifications?
At Vishal Fabrics, sustainability is at the core of our operations, and we are fully committed to adhering to global environmental and ethical standards. Our manufacturing processes comply with international sustainability regulations through certifications such as ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, OEKO-TEX, BCI, and GOTS. We ensure that all chemicals and dyes used in our production are certified for environmental safety. Our Zero Discharge facility treats and recycles all water used in manufacturing, minimising our ecological footprint. We integrate solar energy into our operations to reduce carbon emissions. By continuously innovating and adopting sustainable practices, we remain aligned with global benchmarks for responsible textile production.
Can you share insights into your current production capacity and any upcoming expansion plans?
Vishal Fabrics has a dyeing capacity of 90 MMPA and a processing capacity of 105 MMPA, adding 40+ new designs every month. Putting technology and growth to use, the company has established sound alliances and practices environmentally friendly manufacturing. For growth support, ₹198 crore were used in expanding the Dholi unit, ₹71 crore of which were prepaid, resulting in cost savings. A 0.999 MW rooftop solar power plant was installed to promote energy efficiency. ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, OEKO-TEX, BCI, and GOTS certified, Vishal Fabrics maintains international quality standards. Innovation, sustainability, and fiscal discipline being its pillars, the company is further consolidating its industry leadership.
What are the major global markets Vishal Fabrics is focusing on, and how do you plan to strengthen your international footprint?
Despite geopolitical tensions and economic challenges, Vishal Fabrics remains committed to delivering high-quality products across both domestic and international markets. To strengthen its global footprint, the company is focusing on developing markets, which offer strong growth potential due to their young populations, expanding infrastructure, and cost advantages. By leveraging these opportunities, Vishal Fabrics aims to expand its international presence, enhance profitability, and establish long-term partnerships with major global brands.
The textile sector has faced disruptions due to fluctuating raw material prices and global supply chain challenges. How is Vishal Fabrics navigating these challenges?
Vishal Fabrics is addressing these issues through cost reduction, local material sourcing, supply chain efficiency, and material yield maximisation. These measures enable the company to contain increasing raw material costs and operate smoothly.
The textile sector has faced disruptions due to fluctuating raw material prices and global supply chain challenges. How is Vishal Fabrics navigating these challenges?
Vishal Fabrics is addressing these issues through cost reduction, procurement of local raw materials, optimising supply chain, and optimum utilisation of material. These measures assist the company in controlling increasing raw material costs and maintaining hassle-free operations.
What are the biggest challenges the textile industry is currently facing in terms of supply chain disruptions, raw material availability, and global trade regulations?
The textile industry is navigating several challenges, including raw material shortages, supply chain disruptions, and evolving trade regulations. One of the most pressing issues is the limited availability of long-staple cotton, which India largely relies on imports for despite being a major cotton producer. Additionally, outdated machinery and labour-intensive processes affect productivity and competitiveness compared to global standards. Trade regulations, currency fluctuations, and geopolitical uncertainties further complicate international expansion. To address these challenges, we are optimising our supply chain, investing in modern technology, and adopting strategic sourcing practices to ensure consistent raw material availability and operational efficiency.
Are there any new product lines or strategies aimed at diversifying your customer base?
Vishal Fabrics has a vision to increase the size of its customer base and generate revenue through optimal capacity utilisation, cost reduction, and new product launches. Our emphasis lies in enhancing top-line as well as bottom-line performance and capturing nascent opportunities. We regularly evaluate our strengths and weaknesses with a view to creating competitive strategies for increasing sales, market share, brand equity, and overall image. We also give prime importance to product quality and sustainability to make our business innovative and future-proof.
How is the company leveraging automation, digitalisation, or AI-driven processes to enhance operational efficiency?
The Indian textile industry has long been dependent on labour, but with the use of automation and digital technologies, manufacturing processes have come a full circle. Automation minimises human error, enhances efficiency, and provides for uniform quality. Data-driven decision-making and productivity, along with better customer service, is facilitated through AI-based processes. Through adopting innovation, the industry can remain at the forefront of trends in the market and provide customisable, high-quality fabrics according to changing customer needs.
With automation and AI transforming manufacturing, how do you think digitalisation will impact textile production efficiency and workforce dynamics in the coming years?
Digitalisation is revolutionising textile manufacturing, and we are leveraging automation and AI to enhance efficiency, precision, and quality. Automated systems are reducing human errors, streamlining production, and enabling faster turnaround times. AI-driven design and 3D fabric visualisation allow us to create innovative and customised textiles while minimising material wastage. While automation boosts productivity, we also recognise the importance of workforce reskilling. We are committed to equipping our employees with the necessary skills to operate advanced digital systems, ensuring a seamless transition into a more technology-driven manufacturing landscape.
How is the growing consumer demand for transparency and traceability influencing textile manufacturers, and what steps are being taken to ensure ethical sourcing and production?
Growing consumer demand for ethical sourcing is driving textile manufacturers to increase traceability. We uphold the highest standards of integrity, sustainability, and compliance. Our corporate governance framework promotes transparency, accountability, and ethical decision-making across all levels of our organisation. Our responsible sourcing policies ensure that all raw materials, including dyes and fabrics, meet stringent environmental and ethical criteria. We have implemented water recycling initiatives, use eco-friendly dyes, and maintain globally recognised sustainability certifications. By prioritising responsible production and full supply chain traceability, we are strengthening consumer trust and reinforcing our commitment to sustainability.
How do you see the future of sustainable textiles evolving, and what key innovations are shaping the industry’s transition towards eco-friendly manufacturing?
The future of textiles is increasingly driven by sustainability and technological advancements. At Vishal Fabrics, we are embracing this evolution by integrating nanotechnology, digital textile printing, and 3D fabric design into our processes. These innovations not only enhance product quality but also reduce waste and environmental impact. The growing adoption of pleating technology, high efficiency knitting equipment, and 3D visualisation is enabling faster, more precise production. The rise of e-commerce is also reshaping consumer engagement, creating direct connections between manufacturers and buyers. As a company, we are investing in automation, sustainable fabric production, and eco-friendly dyes to lead the industry’s transition towards responsible and future-ready textile manufacturing.
What trends do you foresee dominating the textile and apparel industry in the next five years, particularly in terms of fabric innovation, consumer preferences, and sustainability regulations?
The industry is witnessing a surge in sustainable textiles, digital fashion, and unique fabrics. Vishal Fabrics is positioned to leverage these trends by enhancing product innovation, adopting greener technologies, and expanding its global footprint. With stricter sustainability regulations, companies focusing on eco-friendly production and digital integration will gain a competitive edge.
What is your vision for Vishal Fabrics in the next five years, and what key milestones do you aim to achieve?
Our vision at Vishal Fabrics is to redefine denim as not just a fashion trend but a lifestyle essential while expanding our global footprint. Over the next five years, we aim to strengthen our manufacturing capabilities, improve product innovation, and scale our operations to new markets. Sustainability remains a key focus, and we are contributing to optimising production efficiency while reducing environmental impact. We also plan to forge strategic partnerships with leading global retail brands, expand our product portfolio, and integrate cutting-edge automation to enhance quality and cost-effectiveness. Through innovation, technology, and sustainability, we strive to strengthen our position as a leader in the textile industry.
