Raymond Ltd: 99 Years from Woolen Mill to Rs.20,487 Crore Textile Giant

Raymond Ltd., founded in 1925, has grown from a small woolen mill to one of the largest integrated manufacturers of fabrics in the world. With a dominant presence in the textile industry, Raymond is a name synonymous with quality and innovation. This article delves into the rich history and evolution of Raymond, highlighting key milestones and achievements that have shaped the brand.

Early Beginnings

Founded by Albert Raymond and Abraham Jacob Raymond, Raymond Woolen Mills began operations near Thane Creek, Mumbai. The company was taken over by Lala Kailashpat Singhania in 1944, marking the beginning of its transformation into a global brand. Under his leadership, Raymond expanded its production capabilities and set up new manufacturing units​​.

Expansion and Diversification

Raymond's journey of expansion began in earnest during the 1950s and 1960s. In 1958, the company opened its first exclusive showroom, King's Corner, at Ballard Estate, Mumbai. This was followed by the establishment of new manufacturing facilities in Jalgaon, Maharashtra, in 1979 to meet the growing demand for worsted woolen fabrics​.

Key Milestones

• Park Avenue Launch (1986): Raymond introduced Park Avenue, a collection of stylish wardrobes for men, which quickly became a household name in India​​.
• International Presence (1990): The company opened its first international showroom in Oman and launched the premium condom brand, Kamasutra, in the same year​.
• Aviation Industry (1996): Raymond ventured into the aviation sector with Raymond Aviation, offering air charter services for corporate travelers in India​​.
• E-commerce Entry (2018): Raymond launched raymondnext.com, a comprehensive online fashion store for all its brands​​.

The Complete Man Campaign

One of the most iconic moments in Raymond's history was the launch of "The Complete Man" campaign in the mid-80s and early 90s. This campaign redefined masculinity, portraying men as loving fathers, supportive partners, and successful professionals. The campaign was a masterclass in subtle selling, focusing on the emotions and values associated with wearing Raymond suits rather than just the product itself​​.

Technological Innovations

In 2016, Raymond introduced Technosmart, hailed as the world's smartest fabric. This innovation showcased the company's commitment to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Raymond adapted quickly, producing 'Virasafe', an anti-viral fabric, and converting garment plants to manufacture PPE suits​.

Social Initiatives

Raymond's "Beyond Business" approach includes various initiatives aimed at social welfare and sustainable development. The JK Trust Gram Vikas Yojana and JK Bovagenix are notable examples. These programs focus on improving cattle breeds and empowering rural communities through skill development and economic upliftment​.

Retail and Global Presence

Raymond's retail network is extensive, with over 2 million square feet of retail space across 1100+ locations in 380+ cities and towns. The company has a robust international presence, exporting to over 55 countries, including the USA, Canada, Europe, Japan, and the Middle East​.

Diverse Business Segments

• Garment Business: Through subsidiaries like Silver Spark Apparel Ltd. and EverBlue Apparel Ltd., Raymond manufactures and exports high-quality garments globally.
• Shirt Business: Raymond's Kolhapur facility produces premium shirt fabrics, catering to national and international brands.
• Denim Business: Raymond UCO Denim, a joint venture with UCO NV of Europe, specialises in specialty ring denim for both domestic and international markets​.

Modern Era and Financial Performance

Today, Raymond is a diversified conglomerate with interests in textiles, apparel, FMCG, engineering, and prophylactics. The company has a strong presence in both national and international markets. As of the financial year ending March 2024, Raymond reported consolidated net sales of ₹2,688.18 crore, marking a year-on-year growth of 21.87%. The company's net profit for the same period stood at ₹229.79 crore​.

Net Worth and Market Position

Raymond's current net worth is bolstered by its robust financial performance and strategic business decisions. The company has consistently increased its revenue and profits, with a significant rise in net profit by 93.6% in Q3 FY24 compared to the previous year. The market capitalisation of Raymond as of July 2024 is approximately ₹20,487.40 crore​.

From its humble beginnings as a woolen mill to becoming a global fashion icon, Raymond's journey is a testament to innovation, quality, and resilience. With a strong foundation and a forward-thinking approach, Raymond continues to set benchmarks in the textile and fashion industry, embodying the essence of "The Complete Man."

Raymond's story is not just about fabrics and garments; it is about a legacy of excellence, a commitment to social responsibility, and an unyielding pursuit of perfection.