As the ‘China Plus One’ sourcing strategy reshapes global apparel trade, Tirupur-based Eastman Exports Global Clothing is consolidating its position as a dominant vertically integrated powerhouse. For the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, the company recorded a robust revenue of Rs 1,440 crore, reflecting a 15 per cent Y-o-Y growth. This financial gr follows a strategic 20 per cent stake sale to Bharat Biotech Group’s investment arm, providing the capital necessary to transition from a traditional garment exporter to a technology-first manufacturing hub.
Backward integration and the synthetics shift
To insulate itself from the volatility of raw cotton prices, Eastman has intensified its focus on backward integration, expanding its in-house spinning and fabric processing capabilities. The company recently allocated Rs 35 crore to its fabric division to boost its synthetic material base, aiming to capture a larger share of the high-margin winter clothing and performance sportswear segments. By controlling production from fiber to finished garment, the firm currently ships up to 12 million pieces per month, serving premium global labels like Hugo Boss and Burberry.
Decarbonizing the supply chain for 2026 compliance
With the European Union’s carbon-border adjustments and ESG mandates coming into effect, Eastman has accelerated its sustainability roadmap. The firm has successfully transitioned away from coal by adopting agricultural bio-briquettes and now recycles 4 million liters of wastewater daily through Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) systems. According to its latest SBTi progress report, these measures have contributed to significant Scope 1 and Scope 2 emission reductions, ensuring that its facilities remain compliant with the increasingly stringent audit requirements of its UK and US-based retail partners.
Strategic expansion into high-growth markets
Under the leadership of N Chandran, Chairman the company is diversifying its market footprint beyond traditional Western strongholds. Leveraging India’s recently signed FTAs, Eastman is aggressively pursuing growth in Australia, Japan, and the UAE. This geographic expansion is supported by the establishment of a dedicated US office and a newly operational UK hub, positioning the brand to offer shorter lead times and localized customer support. We cannot predict the market, but we can extend our flexibility through integrated strength, noted Chandran, signaling a shift toward more agile, demand-driven manufacturing models.
Headquartered in Tirupur, Eastman Exports is a premier vertically integrated knitwear specialist. It serves high-end fashion brands across the US, Europe, and the Middle East. With Rs 1,440 crore in FY25 revenue, the firm is targeting expanded synthetic production and global market diversification through strategic partnerships.
