In a recent conversation with channeliam.com, Jean Mane, President and CEO of Mane Group, discussed the company’s strong presence in India through its subsidiary, Mane Kancor. He shared insights into the journey and significance of this partnership, the strategic role of Kerala in the spice and natural extracts business, and the evolving position of India in the global spice and food flavoring industry.
Significance of the Mane Kancor Partnership
Jean emphasized that the partnership’s significance lies in the strong relationships established with local families. The collaboration began with a modest investment in a joint venture, which laid the groundwork for mutual growth. Over time, Mane Group assumed full responsibility for the company’s development, focusing on improving technology and techniques to elevate it to a world-class standard. A key aspect of this growth has been mastering the supply chain, enabling integration from agriculture to final extract. This approach allows Mane Kancor to tackle issues like contamination, shortages, and product quality effectively.
Kerala as a Strategic Hub
According to Jean, Kerala serves as a strategic hub for Mane Kancor’s operations due to its rich agricultural resources and expertise. The transformation of the industrial estate facilitated the adoption of advanced European technologies tailored for local production. This synergy creates a pathway for delivering high-quality products at affordable prices for Indian consumers while also enabling exports that benefit the economy of Kerala and other states.
India’s Evolving Role in the Global Spice Industry
India is renowned as the spice capital of the world, and Jean sees its role in the global spice and food flavoring industry as increasingly vital. He highlighted the necessity for innovation in agriculture to maintain competitiveness. While traditional spices remain crucial, Jean emphasized the importance of exploring alternative crops that offer higher value for both the state and its farmers. Research initiatives focused on crops like vanilla aim to leverage the agricultural potential not only in Kerala but also in states such as Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka, ensuring sustainable growth and adaptability within the industry.
