By introducing a new technology which is cost-effective and sensitive towards environment for the construction industry, Nitin Mittal, Founder, Knest Aluforms, has made an impact in this sector. Read on more to know about his journey and what future growth plans he has for the company.
Tell us about your journey in the Formworks business.
In 2013, during an overseas visit to an exhibition I came across a company who was manufacturing Aluforms and was intrigued by the method, precision and cutting edge technology that they used. I realised that the Indian real estate sector badly needed this technology and upon my return discussed it with my brother and now partner Prashant Agarwal. Also, the rate at which this material was being imported was high, which was one more reason I felt the need to bring this technology back home. After researching, Prashant was confident this could be manufactured in India after which Knest Aluforms was incepted in 2014. The technology I came across abroad was top notch and this is what I wanted to bring back to India. It just made sense to try and provide this same technology at a better quality service and price in my own country.
Having experience in the real estate sector how did it help you in this formwork industry?
Being a developer myself, I knew the challenges faced by them. One of the main challenges is the timely completion of projects. Aluminium Formworks helps solve this major issue without compromising on the quality. Aluforms are fast to set, affordable, durable and also of the highest quality ensuring all RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) guidelines are followed. Another major problem faced by developers are the soaring rate of interest which they have to pay because of the delay in construction, Aluminium Formworks solves this major problem too.
What are the standard protocols being followed by your company while offering these solutions?
To ensure the quality is being maintained, the material is specially imported. At Knest, all manufacturing processes go through a stringent quality check. Also, no compromise on the quality is possible since these are all single extrusions.
Can you tell us about the recent projects where your solutions are presently being used and name some of your clients?
Some of our clients are Larsen & Toubro, Tata Projects, Shapoorji Pallonji Engineering & Construction, ACC, ATS, Nyati, Kumar Properties, Kohinoor, Pride Purple, Aishwaryam, Nirala India, SRS Group, Earnest, Magicrete and many more…
How has the market for Aluminium Formwork shaped up in Indian residential and commercial scenario, state some key trends that you have noticed?
Aluminium Formworks as a technology is catching up soon as more and more builders and developers are becoming aware of the benefits of it. As we get more conscious of the environmental hazards of using wood in construction, we as builders and developers have to switch over to more environmentally friendly methods of construction. This awareness is soon growing in the construction fraternity and my endeavour is to spread the word on a one on one basis.
What makes Knest Aluform’s way of working in the country different from the rest of its competitors in this business?
Since it is an Indian company, it can provide unlimited support when it comes to service to developers which might be difficult for other international companies to do. Also at Knest, the material used in the manufacturing of Aluminium Formworks is of the most superior quality. The material is specially imported so as to ensure the quality is not ampered with. The material Knest uses is of high tensile strength and all are single extrusions. The panel of Aluminium that Knest manufactures is 600 mm without any welding, which is a single extrusion compared to 200 to 300 mm from other manufacturers. No compromise on the quality is possible since these are all single extrusions. Also, any kind of dimension or groove in a structure can be manufactured by Knest. Moreover, Knest manufactures different risers, which canbe made in different sizes and this so far no other Aluminium Formworks company has been able to create. The lead time is faster since Knest always has all the raw material and accessories necessary in stock. The machinery used for cutting is highly automated and the robotic welding technique used by Knest is accurate and the end product as a clean finish. The after-sales service is excellent leading to the exponential growth they have seen in the last couple of years. And last but not the least, the zero usage of wood throughout the construction process thereby supporting the environment is the biggest USP and contribution of Knest.
What is your emphasis on R&D?
Without R&D no work should be done and any progress is impossible. No innovation is possible without R&D. I am data driven guy and thrive on R&D and Knest is a result of such research and development.
Your company aims at providing “green building” to the customers so how is this working on?
As mentioned before, there is a growing awareness to the environmental damage we are causing as we construct. It is we as developers and builders who should spearhead the change. It starts with ‘US’. Using Aluminium Formworks method of construction completely does away with using wood to construct. Moreover, the speed of construction is faster and more durable. Also Aluminium Formworks can be recycled and refurbished upto 1,000 times which means there is no wastage unlike wood. As customers understand the benefits of constructing using Aluminium Formworks, the word is slowing but steadily spreading.
Recently you have received an award from the Canadian University for the research of Aluminium Formwork and contribution of it in the Indian construction industry, so what were the efforts behind the award?
My background as a developer for the last decade came handy here. I knew the in and out of what goes into construction during these tumultuous times. My thirst for learning any new technology which could change the method of construction helped here. I travelled abroad extensively and attended many exhibitions abroad where new and innovative ways of construction are showcased. Observing, learning and asking questions have been an integral part of whatever I have learnt so far. My partners Prashant Agarwal and Ashish Agarwal believed in me and helped support my vision. All in all, it takes an army to win a war and without the support and contribution of the entire Knest team nothing would be possible.
What are your future plans for the company?
Knest is synonymous with Monolithic Aluforms structures in India. I would like to see Knest Manufacturers LLP listed in the stock markets in the coming year. Also, our very own extrusion plan is something which will propel the growth of Knest further. For me, Knest is a way of giving back to society and to the developer community. Job creation is always goingto be my number one vision and mission. I hope to provide employment to 2,000 people by the end of 2025 as a contribution to society.
How do you unwind yourself from the daily hectic schedule?
All the work I do adds to the happiness in my life and it never feels hectic. I enjoy playing sports and meeting my friends. I also enjoy meeting new people to ideate. Such interactions enrich my life and give me more energy and peace.
What message would you give to budding entrepreneurs?
I wish to personally educate the younger generation on the benefits of Aluminium Formworks and will personally be visiting as many colleges possible to impart the knowledge and expertise I have gained. I strongly believe the future lies in the hands of these young minds. If they understand the benefits of Aluminium Formworks we are rest assured, our future is in safe hands. I am a crusader for saving of our forests and to totally do away with usage of wood in construction. I know it’s the construction fraternity and the future entrepreneurs who are responsible for this change.