Kansai Nerolac Paints Ltd (KNPL) is strengthening its position across decorative and industrial coatings through a diversified portfolio, premiumisation initiatives, customer engagement programmes, and technology-driven innovation, according to Managing Director Pravin Chaudhari.
In the company’s Annual Report 2025-26, Chaudhari said KNPL’s balanced presence in both decorative and industrial segments has enabled it to effectively navigate demand cycles while supporting long-term growth. The company continues to focus on premiumisation, customer engagement, technology leverage and operational efficiency as key growth pillars.
Leveraging Kansai Paint Group strengths
As part of the global Kansai Paint Group, KNPL is benefiting from international operations, advanced technologies and talent capabilities. Under the Group’s ‘ONE KANSAI’ initiative, cross-border collaboration has accelerated, facilitating faster deployment of global technologies, enhanced knowledge sharing and improved cost competitiveness.
Decorative business expands product portfolio
KNPL expanded its decorative coatings portfolio during FY26 with the launch of more than 15 new products. Secondary sales growth was supported by increased engagement with painters through the Pragati Loyalty Programme, training initiatives and outreach activities.
The company also strengthened influencer engagement through its Illuminati Programme and industry participation efforts. Retail visibility was enhanced through the expansion of more than 150 Nerolac NxtGen Shoppes, 250 Shop-in-Shop units and over 250 Paint Zone touchpoints.
Project Business and specialised segments gain traction
The Project Business division expanded its geographic reach while increasing engagement with contractors and offering specialised solutions. Key projects executed during the year included the Jharkhand High Court and the Raipur Vidhan Sabha.
In the Construction Chemicals and Waterproofing segment, the company introduced targeted solutions to address diverse customer requirements. The Wood Coatings business continued its premiumisation journey, supported by KNPL’s collaboration with ICRO.
Industrial coatings drive technology-led growth
In the industrial segment, KNPL focused on developing advanced and sustainable coating solutions aimed at enhancing efficiency and resource utilisation.
The Automotive division introduced technologically advanced products aligned with evolving industry requirements, while the Auto Refinish business expanded its presence across premium A-class body shops. Performance Coatings delivered growth through high-technology solutions catering to key industrial and infrastructure sectors.
According to the company, these initiatives are helping reinforce its market leadership through differentiated offerings, technological excellence and stronger customer partnerships.
Demand environment improves in second half
Commenting on market conditions, Chaudhari noted that FY26 was characterised by a dynamic operating environment. The Decorative segment faced near-term challenges due to geopolitical developments, an extended monsoon season and a shorter festive cycle.
However, demand trends improved progressively during the second half of the year. Rural demand remained stable, while urban demand showed signs of gradual recovery.
On the industrial side, the automotive sector maintained strong momentum, supported by improved affordability and sustained demand across vehicle segments. Performance coatings also recorded growth, aided by continued infrastructure investments.