By K. Gopalakrishnan
Strengthening Functional Textiles Through Strategic Technology Collaboration
Candor Textiles’ transformation from a traditional greige fabric manufacturer into a globally recognised functional textile player reflects a clear strategic direction: move up the value chain, invest in precision technology, and align with international standards. A defining milestone in this journey has been the company’s investment in advanced coating technology from Zimmer Austria, facilitated in India by A.T.E. Enterprises.
Speaking about this transition, Mr. Rakesh Jain, Chief Business Officer, Candor Textiles, explains, “We started our journey under our parent company Jyoti Overseas, primarily dealing in greige canvas fabrics. As our customer base grew, we realised the need to move beyond greige fabrics into finished textiles and eventually into made-ups. Today, we are largely out of conventional textiles and firmly positioned in functional textiles.”
Nearly 90 percent of Candor’s production is export-oriented, serving close to 50 countries worldwide. The United States, Australia and Europe constitute its key markets, where performance consistency and compliance are non-negotiable.
A Diversified Functional Textile Platform
Candor operates through three specialised divisions. Its textile processing unit houses dyeing, padding and coating facilities. The second vertical focuses on art canvases, stretch frames and panels supplied to leading global brands and retail chains. The third division caters to custom sewing operations for heavy-duty bags, tents and multiple products for outdoor applications.
“Our strength lies in heavy-weight canvas fabrics designed for demanding applications such as luxury tents, glamping structures, canopies and heavy-duty outdoor bags,” says Mr. Jain. “These products require waterproofing, water repellency, flame retardancy, UV resistance and high light fastness. In the art canvas segment, coating precision and surface uniformity are absolutely critical.”
Zimmer Austria: Elevating Coating Excellence
Recognising coating as a critical value-add process, Candor invested in a Zimmer coating line approximately two and a half years ago through A.T.E. Enterprises Private Limited, Zimmer Austria’s representative in India.
“Earlier, we operated coating lines up to three meters, but we faced challenges related to consistency and manual variability,” Mr. Jain recalls. “When you are supplying to global brands, consistency is everything. GSM uniformity, surface texture, coating thickness—every parameter must be precise.”
The Zimmer installation significantly improved programmability, automation and repeatability. “The biggest advantage has been consistency and precision,” he notes. “Automation has reduced manual errors and rejections. In segments like art canvases and performance textiles, even minor deviations can result in product rejection. The Zimmer line has given us better control and reliability.”
For international buyers who conduct multiple factory audits before onboarding suppliers, infrastructure plays a decisive role. “When global brands visit our plant, they assess not only the product but the entire setup—machinery, labs, systems,” Mr. Jain explains. “The presence of globally recognised technology like Zimmer enhances our credibility and builds buyer confidence.”
Sustainability as a Core Commitment
Technology integration at Candor is complemented by a strong sustainability framework. The plant operates on captive solar power through rooftop installations and maintains a Zero Liquid Discharge facility. The company holds GOTS and GRS certifications, meeting stringent environmental compliance standards.
“Our entire power requirement is largely met through solar energy,” says Mr. Jain. “We have invested in sustainable practices not just because buyers demand it, but because it aligns with our core values and long-term philosophy.”
Beyond environmental initiatives, Candor has invested in social infrastructure. A newly inaugurated housing facility will accommodate up to 450 workers near the factory premises. The management also runs a school providing subsidised education to nearly 1200 underprivileged children from neighbouring villages. Plans are underway to multiply the school in coming years.
“We believe growth must be inclusive,” Mr. Jain adds. “Our responsibility extends beyond manufacturing and ourselves.”
Capacity and Forward Vision
Candor’s coating capacity currently stands at approximately 0.75 million meters per month across three lines, while fabric processing capacity is about five lakh meters monthly. The company employs around 650 people and operates at a turnover close to ₹95 crore, targeting growth beyond ₹100 crore in the current financial year.
“We have the infrastructure in place, and there is still scope for better utilisation,” Mr. Jain says. “With increasing global opportunities, particularly in functional textiles, we see strong growth potential.”
Future plans include installing a continuous mercerising range and a singeing machine to expand into lightweight fabrics for bags, apparel and selected outdoor products. Automation initiatives are also being explored in the art trade division to enhance efficiency in wood cutting and stretch frame production.
Precision Through Partnership
For Candor Textiles, the collaboration with Zimmer, supported by A.T.E., represents a strategic alignment with global best practices.
“This partnership is not just about machinery,” Mr. Jain concludes. “It reflects our commitment to precision, consistency and global standards. With the right technology and sustainable manufacturing practices, we are confident of strengthening our position in international markets”.
By integrating advanced coating technology with a robust sustainability framework and export-driven strategy, Candor Textiles has reinforced its foundation in functional textiles—positioning itself for sustained growth in an increasingly demanding global landscape.