PI Cottex To Raise Capacity To 1,000 Tonnes, Backs Brückner Technology
PI Cottex, a vertically integrated manufacturer of knitted fabrics based in Ludhiana, is targeting a significant capacity expansion over the next two to five years, with monthly production expected to rise from around 600 tonnes to 1,000 tonnes.
The company plans to support the expansion through investments in automation, advanced technologies and quality assurance systems, while also exploring opportunities to diversify into related areas such as yarns and fabrics.
PI Cottex currently serves leading national and international brands across the fashion, casualwear, sportswear and athleisure segments. International markets account for around 70-75% of its business, while demand from organised retail, sportswear manufacturers and emerging fashion brands is also increasing in India.
The company has developed its competitive strength through vertical integration, with knitting, dyeing and finishing carried out in-house. This allows PI Cottex to maintain control over colour, weight, width, shrinkage and fabric hand feel, while enabling faster response to customer requirements.
A key part of its technology strategy is its long-standing relationship with German textile machinery manufacturer Brückner. PI Cottex operates four stenter frames — one six-chamber, one eight-chamber and two 10-chamber machines — including Brückner equipment.
Jasdeep Singh, Managing Director, PI Cottex Pvt Ltd, said the company’s positive experience with Brückner’s installed machines had strengthened its confidence in the technology and prompted consideration of further investments.
“The reliable performance, high process reliability and consistently high quality of the finishing results convinced the company,” Singh said.
He added that Brückner’s dryer design allows PI Cottex to achieve the required processing results with fewer chambers while delivering high output, consistent heat-setting, improved shrinkage control and greater energy efficiency.
Thomas Wiget, General Manager, Brückner Textile India Pvt Ltd, said the partnership reflects the company’s focus on supporting customers beyond machinery supply.
“Brückner is far more than just a machine supplier. The company has a deep understanding of textile finishing processes and supports its customers in efficiently meeting demanding quality requirements,” Wiget said.
PI Cottex currently generates annual revenue of around ₹200 crore and employs approximately 500 people, with the business growing at about 20% annually. It has evolved from a traditional contract finisher into a fully integrated manufacturer.
Sustainability is another focus area, with the company using agro-based fuels for steam generation, wastewater treatment systems and employee awareness programmes. It also holds certifications including OEKO-TEX, BCI, GOTS, GRS and SEDEX.
The company, however, continues to face industry-wide challenges including volatile raw-material prices, geopolitical uncertainties, international trade disruptions and subdued demand in some export markets. Against this backdrop, PI Cottex sees efficiency, quality, cost control and shorter lead times as critical to its future growth.
