Leading the uPVC & ALUMINIUM REVOLUTION in India
In the ever-evolving construction and renovation landscape in India, the demand for innovative, efficient, and sustainable solutions has never been higher. Homeowners and builders alike are constantly seeking materials that offer durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Amidst this growing demand, uPVC & aluminium doors and windows have emerged as a game-changer, offering unparalleled benefits over traditional materials. As one of the pioneering players in the UPVC & aluminium space, AIS Windows, a division of Asahi India Glass, stands at the forefront of innovation and quality in engineered window solutions. The company’s mission is to transform living spaces with advanced door and window solutions that provide acoustic comfort, security, durability, anti-air pollution and energy efficiency.
“The uPVC & aluminium doors and windows sector in India has witnessed robust growth, outpacing traditional materials like wood and steel,” says Naveen Karki, Business Head at AIS Windows. “With an estimated market size of Rs 25,000 crore, only a fraction of this market is organized, leaving significant opportunities for expansion.”
UPVC & aluminium offerings
However, despite its growth trajectory, many consumers are still unaware of the benefits offered by uPVC as well as aluminum systems over conventional materials like wood and steel. Issues such as moisture absorption in wood during monsoons and high maintenance costs persist, underscoring the need for extensive awareness campaigns and educational initiatives. "We are currently organizing many awareness sessions in architecture colleges and conducting webinars for architects, interior designers, and influencers," says Karki. These initiatives aim to educate the market about the superior qualities of uPVC and aluminium doors and windows, emphasizing their durability, low maintenance, and enhanced performance.
Specializing in both uPVC and aluminium substrates, AIS Windows offers a wide array of products tailored for diverse architectural needs. From standard casement and sliding windows to specialized solutions like slide-and-fold and lift-and-slide doors and windows, the company ensures every product meets stringent quality and performance standards. “Recognizing that the majority of window solutions involve significant glass components, we leverage advanced glass technologies to enhance sound insulation, energy efficiency, and security,” explains Karki.
Digitization for customer satisfaction
At the core of the company’s operations is a commitment to transparency, reliability, and technological integration. From initial inquiry to final installation, AIS Windows employs a digitally-driven approach to streamline processes and enhance customer experience. The moment a customer engages with the company—whether through a call center, a dealer, or a salesperson—the entire journey is digitized. This digitized ‘window journey’ ensures seamless communication and efficiency, covering every stage, including inquiry handling, lead generation, quotation, order finalization, and manufacturing.
Quality assurance remains paramount at AIS Windows, drawing from best practices established in its automotive division. Rigorous quality checks at every stage, from material intake to manufacturing processes and pre-dispatch inspections, ensure that only superior products reach customers, enhancing reliability and reinforces the company's reputation as a trusted provider in the industry.
Currently, AIS Windows is in the process of implementing a manufacturing execution system (MES) to further improve visibility and control over production. This system will enable real-time tracking of orders through various stages of production, ensuring timely delivery and high-quality output. Another innovative step is the digitization of the measurement and survey process, eliminating errors and improving accuracy, increasing overall operational efficiency.
Cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality
AIS Windows continues to invest in R&D to drive innovation and affordability in its product offerings without compromising on quality. Whether designing specialized windows for kitchens or enhancing uPVC formulations for better performance, the company’s R&D endeavors are geared towards advancing the boundaries of window technology in India.
“For example, in areas like kitchens and bathrooms, where ventilation and moisture control are critical, we have developed specialized window solutions that address these specific needs,” adds Karki. “In addition to working on new uPVC formulations that promise enhanced durability and performance, we are expanding the range of surface finishes available for aluminum windows to ensure greater choice and longevity.”
Expanding across manufacturing, sales, and service domains
Starting its journey in 2012 with a modest 25,000 square feet factory and quadrupling in size five years later, AIS Windows plans to expand its manufacturing capabilities with a new facility in Bengaluru, slated to commence operations in the coming fiscal year. The introduction of aluminium products and venturing into adjacent markets, like shower enclosures, facades, and railings, have added to the company’s competitive edge. Today, the company is on track to surpass Rs 100 crore in revenue, a testament to its strategic vision and operational excellence.
Besides the new manufacturing facility in Bengaluru, AIS Windows envisions a robust network of over 300 dealers by 2030 and a comprehensive service network covering the entire country. Experience centers will also play a crucial role as part of the expansion of the company’s sales network expansion strategy, offering customers a firsthand look at the range and quality of its products.
“With advanced technologies, a robust R&D framework, and a commitment to superior customer service, we remain poised to redefine living spaces with reliable, aesthetic, and high-performance door and window solutions. Our goal is to lead the uPVC & aluminium revolution in India and to be recognized as the top player in the door and window industry by 2030," concludes Karki.
