The Mumbai-based Nishan is targeting a turnover of Rs 12 crore in three years. The Rs 5 crore company, which makes bi-metal, steel and bronze bushings along with automobile spares, will double output to ten lakh bushings a month by 2009.

Nishan, which began operations in Mumbai four decades ago, has a facility in Sewri. However, it is its Umargaon unit in Gujarat that accounts for 75 percent of production. The major thrust is on bi-metal bushings which contribute to 80 percent of business. The company supplies bushings to 33 leading spring makers both here and abroad. It also meets the needs of 22 state transport corporations. Exports go to 17 countries and take up 70 percent of turnover, of which 55 percent is from the replacement market.

"Our customers in the export market are Tier 1 suppliers like spring/kingpin kit manufacturers and other suppliers. We also supply to large wholesalers in the replacement market," ZA Sultan, managing director, told Autocar Professional. "Our old customers recommended Nishan to our new customers. We focus on quality, timely supplies and total reliability," he added.

Nishan’s strategy to achieve its targets revolves around retaining existing customers and expanding export markets. Europe will be the new focus area this year and talks are on with Tier 1 suppliers in Germany and France. "As per our policy, no market or customer contributes to over 15 percent of business. We also do not supply the same items to more than one buyer," Sultan said.

The company plans to increase the number of customers in North America from next year and explore Latin America where Brazil and Argentina are key markets. According to him, Nishan is open to new products. It has developed a full range of adjustable rods and propeller shafts for select customers and will look at importing high technology precision items. "We do not want to concentrate on the beaten items where we only compete on price," Sultan said.