Bulten Expands India Operations with Full Ownership and New Chennai Facility!
Bulten has signed a binding agreement with its joint venture partner to take full ownership of its operations in India, reinforcing the country’s growing importance in the company’s long-term strategy. The move follows a broader strategic assessment and reflects Bulten’s ambition to strengthen its operational footprint in carefully selected growth markets.
As part of the transition, Bulten plans to relocate its Indian operations to Chennai, a major hub for consumer electronics and advanced manufacturing. The new facility will be established within an industrial park that is attracting leading global contract manufacturers. This location is expected to provide strategic proximity to both customers and suppliers, improving supply chain responsiveness and operational efficiency.
A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed with local authorities to support the development of the new site. The project will be executed in phases, with the initial phase estimated to require an investment of approximately SEK 30–50 million. Future expansion plans will be evaluated based on evolving customer requirements and market conditions.
The India expansion represents one of the first concrete outcomes of Bulten’s previously announced strategic review. The company is sharpening its focus on selected customer relationships and value chains beyond its traditional automotive business. While automotive remains a core segment, Bulten is increasingly targeting growth areas such as consumer electronics and broader industrial applications.
According to President and CEO Axel Berntsson, global supply chain shifts are playing a significant role in this decision. Many customers are reassessing their manufacturing footprints and adopting “China-plus-one” strategies to diversify production bases. India is emerging as a critical addition to global supply chains, particularly in electronics and industrial manufacturing. In parallel, changes in global trade dynamics and policy developments are further underscoring the importance of strengthening regional presence.
By consolidating full ownership of its Indian operations and establishing a new facility in Chennai, Bulten aims to position itself closer to key customers and participate more actively in diversified global value chains. The initiative is also expected to support improved profitability by aligning operations with high-growth segments.
Bulten Group operates as a global manufacturer and distributor of fasteners, primarily serving the automotive sector while also supporting industries such as consumer electronics. The company provides both standard and customized fastening solutions. Through its Full Service Provider concept, Bulten manages the entire fastener supply chain for customers, including development, sourcing, logistics and after-sales service.
With its expanded commitment to India, Bulten is aligning its manufacturing strategy with shifting global production patterns, reinforcing its presence in a market that continues to gain importance within international supply chains.
