Kitex Garments Limited, one of the world’s biggest makers of infant clothing, is entering a new phase of growth. Based in Kerala, the company is investing heavily to expand capacity, strengthen its global presence, and launch its trusted brand in India’s growing domestic market. Sustainability remains at the heart of everything it does.
Chairman and Managing Director Sabu Jacob says, “For more than three decades, our strength has come from our commitment to quality. That’s what guides us as we grow in an ever-changing world.”
Building Global Trust
Founded in 1992, Kitex quickly became a major exporter of infant apparel to leading retailers in the US and Europe. Within just three years, it was listed on both the NSE and BSE — a sign of the market’s confidence in its performance.
Kitex handles every stage of production in-house, from yarn to finished product. Its factories operate with 85% efficiency, compared to the global average of around 55%. Alongside infantwear, the company now produces garments for men, women, and children, as well as packaging and accessories.
Massive Investment in Telangana
Kitex is investing ₹3,550 crore to build two integrated apparel parks in Telangana — one in Warangal and another in Hyderabad.
- Warangal (Phase I – 2025): ₹1,750 crore
- Hyderabad (Phase II – 2026–27): ₹1,800 crore
So far, ₹1,550 crore has already been spent, and production in Warangal is set to start in April 2025. Once complete, these facilities are expected to generate ₹5,000 crore in annual revenue and create about 25,000 jobs.
“This is not just about factories,” says Jacob. “It’s about building communities and making India stronger in global manufacturing.”
Launching ‘Little Star’ in India
After decades of export success, Kitex has launched its US brand Little Star for Indian consumers. The brand brings international-quality kidswear to the Indian market — a segment growing rapidly as incomes and awareness rise.
Jacob says, “The Indian market has huge potential. Launching Little Star here helps us connect directly with families while opening a new growth path for the company.”
End-to-End Operations
Kitex’s strength lies in its full control of the production process — from fabric and stitching to packaging and accessories. This setup ensures consistent quality, faster delivery, and cost efficiency, which global buyers value highly.
Strong Financial Performance
In FY 2024–25, Kitex reported revenue of ₹98,280.46 lakh and a Profit After Tax of ₹15,295.33 lakh. Growth was driven by higher exports and strong customer trust. The company continues to maintain world-class efficiency and productivity.
Commitment to Sustainability
Kitex runs a zero-discharge, zero-pollution operation. In FY25, it cut energy use by 32.5% and reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 25%. The company also spent ₹2.4 crore on CSR projects supporting housing, education, and women’s empowerment.
“Sustainable growth is our true measure of success,” says Jacob. “We want our progress to benefit both people and the planet.”
Adapting to Industry Shifts
With global brands looking beyond China for sourcing, Kitex is well-positioned to benefit from this shift. It’s also investing in technology like AI-driven design, forecasting, and blockchain-based supply tracking.
“India is becoming a preferred sourcing hub, and we’re ready to lead that change,” Jacob notes.
Looking Ahead
Kitex aims to capture at least 1% of the US apparel market in the coming years. Its Telangana projects and merger with Kitex Childrenswear Limited will help achieve that goal. The company’s push into India through Little Star adds another strong growth channel.
“Our next phase is about scale, diversification, and responsible growth,” says Jacob.
The Road Forward
Kitex stands at an important turning point — stronger, larger, and more ambitious than ever. With major investments, steady profits, a sustainable vision, and an entry into the Indian retail market, the company is shaping itself into a true global leader.
As Jacob puts it, “Our growth is not just about numbers. It’s about creating value for customers, communities, and the country. The future we’re building is one where Kitex stands for quality, innovation, and trust.”
