#CSStart#
<dhhead>Chairman’s Message </dhhead>
DEAR STAKEHOLDERS,
It is with great pride that I present the Annual Report for FY 2024-25,
a year that truly reflects the essence of our journey. This report highlights our
achievements in growth, progress, and sustainability at the backdrop of evolving market
dynamics and emerging opportunities. Furthermore, it emphasises our firm conviction to
create enduring value for all stakeholders. India is at a defining moment in its economic
trajectory, with opportunities emerging at every turn. As the world’s largest
democracy and one of the fastest-growing economies, the country is home to a vast and
educated lower-to-middle-class population that is aspirational and eager for consumption.
India stands as the fourth-largest economy globally, with a GDP of approximately US$4.19
trillion, and is the third-largest economy by purchasing power parity, while its GDP per
capita on a PPP basis ranks 119th. The resilience of the economy is evident
despite a host of challenges, including ongoing inflationary pressures, a depreciating
rupee, and volatile crude oil and commodity prices. Improved agricultural prospects,
growing rural demand, and rising consumption in the middle-income segment further bolster
the economic momentum, presenting a cautiously optimistic outlook for our operations.
Along our journey, the brand ‘Eveready’ has come to represent
leadership and innovation. As a consumer-focused company, we have consistently evolved to
fulfil the changing demands of our consumers. We continue to fortify our brand-building
efforts, undertaking sustained investments in advertising, promotions, and targeted
activations across electronic, print, and digital media. In step with the dynamic consumer
preferences, we are expanding our reach across modern trade, e-commerce, and quick
commerce, while maintaining our stronghold in traditional trade channels. Our
innovation-led growth focuses on uplifting product quality, as we leverage technology to
introduce energy-efficient solutions and expand premium offerings. By firming up our
supply chain and distribution networks, we prioritise customer satisfaction,
accessibility, and timely delivery, reinforcing our position as a trusted and
forward-thinking brand.
Aligned with our vision for growth and innovation, we have finalised
plans for a greenfield production facility dedicated to alkaline batteries, backed by a
capital investment of around Rs180 Crore. Strategically located in Jammu’s SIDCO
industrial complex, this facility is expected to commence commercial production by the end
of financial year 2025-26, marking a significant advancement in our manufacturing
capabilities. As India’s only alkaline battery production facility, the unit will
serve as a game changer – augmenting operational efficiencies, optimising production
costs, and supporting the phased expansion of our Ultima Pro and Ultima ranges.
Additionally, with a long-term outlook, we intend to develop this site
into a multi-product hub, leveraging economies of scale to drive cost efficiencies and
long-term progress.
Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond manufacturing
milestones – it is deeply embedded in our vision for responsible growth. We have
significantly intensified our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) efforts by
collaborating with external consultants to establish comprehensive policies and
frameworks. Our focus remains on reducing carbon footprint, minimising wastage, and
optimising resource consumption, particularly in water and energy usage. Complementing our
environmental stewardship, we continue to empower our people by promoting a culture of
inclusivity, continuous learning, and development, fostering a highly engaged and agile
workforce. Our dedication to social progress is reflected in impactful community
initiatives spanning education, healthcare, and livelihood enhancement, reaffirming our
role as a catalyst for change. Strengthening governance practices remains our priority, as
we uphold transparency, ethical decision-making, and regulatory compliance, cementing the
foundation of trust and performance excellence that defines our legacy.
None of our endeavours would have been successful without the astute
partnership and support of our stakeholders. I extend my sincere gratitude to our
employees, customers, partners, and shareholders for their trust, collaboration, and
shared commitment to excellence. As we move forward, I am confident that Eveready is
stronger than ever – well-positioned to capitalise on emerging opportunities and
create sustained value for all stakeholders.
Together, we stay focused on accelerating innovation and powering
sustainable growth for collective progress.
Warm regards,
Dr. Anand Chand Burman