Shamvik Glasstech is a leading Indian manufacturer of glass forming machines, feeders and spare parts, meeting the current requirements for the production of glass containers

Dear colleagues!

We are publishing an interview with Rahul Munshi, Business Development Director of the Indian company Shamvik Glasstech, for the magazine "Glass Russia".

Rahul Munshi: "We independently produce a full range of equipment for the hot section"

Shamvik Glasstech is a leading Indian manufacturer of glass forming machines, feeders and spare parts that meet the current requirements for the production of glass containers.

Please tell our readers about the history of your company.

The company was founded in 1973 under the name Maul Eastern - a joint venture with Maul Brothers, USA. During this period, the company became a pioneer in the production of glass container equipment in India, and in 1984-1991 it firmly established itself in the market of the Soviet Union, providing not only production equipment to existing glass factories, but also creating completely new glass factories from scratch in Zhitomir, Poltava, as well as "Biomedsteklo" and many others. Following a buyout by its US partners, the company was renamed Shamvik Glasstech in honour of its founding father.

With a robust Emhart technology platform inherited from Maul partnerhsip, the company has entered into a number of technology partnerships with leading manufacturers in Europe (such as Heye International, GPS, Saint Gobain) as well as the US (O-I) to expand its product range and offer the best technology and quality to its customers. The competitive advantage the company has gained from its sourcing and talent acquisition skills has ensured competitive pricing and a dominant position in the Indian market, as well as an advantage in global markets.

As a result of these factors, the company has shown strong growth in its financial performance, which has grown by 25-30% year-on-year since the slowdown during the COVID pandemic.

How long has your company been operating in Russia?

The company was present on the market with its own office during the Soviet Union in 1984-1991, after which it left due to the lack of foreign currency in the market. Four years ago, we returned to the market indirectly through trading companies, and two years ago - directly, supplying products to more than 60% of Russian glass container manufacturers, which invariably causes positive feedback.

In which segment does your company operate on the Russian market?

In addition to the fact that we produce a full range of Emhart/Maul spare parts (including distributors, feeders, transport equipment - ladles, trays, reflectors, etc.), as well as many parts for other manufacturers, we also supply refractories, lubricants, glass molds and electronics (Siemens), etc. from original manufacturers to our customers in the CIS countries.

What equipment do you offer to your customers?

We manufacture a full range of hot section equipment ourselves, from feeders to the Emhart/Maul stacker, and have learned through decades of research and development that our equipment and components are fully compatible and compatible with those of other manufacturers. With over 50 years of presence in the glass industry, we have very close relationships with distribution partners for a variety of products such as glass furnaces, refractories, consumables and lubricants, glass moulds, electronics, lehrs, inspection and packaging equipment – all of which we can offer to our customers in the Russian Federation.

The main advantages here are that Shamvik can be a one-stop shop for all glassworks needs, while at the same time offering much better prices and delivery times than other companies.

What technologies do you use in your production?

We use the Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) — a system of interconnected computer networks and connected production facilities with embedded sensors and software for collecting and exchanging data, with the ability to remotely monitor and control them in an automated mode, without human intervention. We also use specially treated materials to increase the heat resistance of products, and we also use servo drives.

What do you think about the main trends in the global glass market?

First of all, I would like to note that environmental friendliness is becoming increasingly important in all industries, including glass production. Companies are increasingly implementing environmentally friendly methods, such as the use of recycled materials and reducing energy consumption in production.

Technological innovations are also being introduced more and more — this allows the industry to move forward in glass production technology. Advances in materials science, automation and digitalization are also significant, leading to improved product quality and production efficiency.

We are seeing a noticeable shift to specialty glass products, driven by demand in industries such as electronics, healthcare and aerospace. These industries require high-quality glass with special properties such as strength, transparency or heat resistance. It must be said that the effects of COVID-19 are still being felt: the pandemic has disrupted global supply chains and affected demand patterns across all industries, including the glass industry. Although the pandemic initially caused some slowdown in growth, efforts to recover and adapt to the new normal have helped stabilize the market.

How unique is the Russian glass market?

As for the Russian glass market, it may be influenced by similar global trends, but with some unique features:

1. Economic factors: Economic conditions and government policies play an important role in shaping the Russian glass market. Factors such as exchange rate fluctuations, trade policies, and investment incentives may influence the dynamics of the industry.

2. Domestic demand: Demand for glass products in Russia, especially in the construction and automotive sectors, largely determines market activity. Economic development projects and infrastructure investments also influence the level of demand.

3. Technological development: Russian glass manufacturers are investing in technology upgrades to improve efficiency, quality, and environmental sustainability. Collaboration with international partners in the transfer of technology and expertise may also influence the trajectory of the industry.

4. Global trade dynamics: Russia’s participation in global trade and its relationships with key trading partners may affect the import and export of glass products, as well as competition in the domestic market.

It is important to note that market trends may change over time and for the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to review the latest industry reports and analysis.

Tell us about your latest projects in Russia and neighboring countries.

In addition to regular supplies of glass forming machines and spare parts for more than four years, Shamvik Glasstech has successfully supplied fully independent and integrated electronic control systems, NNPB equipment, furnace equipment. Customers have also trusted Shamvik to carry out complete refurbishment and maintenance of their existing equipment and develop the necessary components. Given its strong partnerships and experience, Shamvik is also actively negotiating the development of turnkey container and medical glass production projects for companies in Russia and the CIS in the near future.