In the heart of Lucknow, where the past meets the future, stands a beacon of entrepreneurial success: Chopra Retec Rubber Products Ltd.. Founded by Kiron Chopra, this ISO 9001 certified, ESG-compliant venture has redefined automotive excellence with its niche rubber components that travel the globe, powering vehicles from Germany to China and everywhere in between. At the helm of this Indo-German joint venture is a man whose journey is as remarkable as the company he leads.
A Vision Rooted in Legacy
Kiron Chopra’s entrepreneurial spark was ignited by his late father, Shri J.C. Chopra, who dreamed of seeing India leave an indelible mark on the global automotive industry. Armed with a science degree from the University of Lucknow and specialized training as a rubber technologist from London, Kiron’s path to creating an industry powerhouse was anything but conventional. “It’s all about Junoon, Jugaad, hard work, risk-taking, and luck,” says Kiron, reflecting on his journey.
Beyond his technical expertise, Kiron’s active involvement in policymaking and trade councils underscores his commitment to driving systemic change. From shaping export policies for Uttar Pradesh to representing India in global forums, his leadership extends well beyond the boardroom.
Making Geography History
Starting a business in the landlocked city of Lucknow presented unique challenges. In the late 1970s and early 80s, India lacked a focus on exports, and the automotive aftermarket was nearly non-existent domestically. Kiron recalls, “We took it upon ourselves to deliver on the world stage despite regulatory challenges and limited access to raw materials and services.” By focusing on quality, competitive pricing, and relationship-building, Chopra Retec established itself as a global leader, proving that location is no barrier to ambition.
The turning point? Securing their first export order from Germany under stringent payment terms. This milestone not only marked their entry into Europe but also built the foundation for their reputation as a trusted partner worldwide.
The Secret Sauce to Success
At its core, Chopra Retec Rubber Products Ltd. specializes in manufacturing rubber parts for automotive exhausts and suspension systems. Over time, the company has developed one of the largest ranges of such parts globally. They supply to marquee brands, including Aston Martin Lagonda, UK, where they developed a bespoke component for the exclusive $2.5 million ONE-77 model.
“We built our business around relationships,” shares Kiron. Transparency, empathy, and a commitment to ethics define their operations. “No customer has ever left us in several decades of our association. That’s the strength of trust and quality,” he adds.
Overcoming Challenges with Resilience
Every success story has its hurdles. For Chopra Retec, breaking into the global market as an Indian manufacturer in the 1980s required relentless self-belief. With limited resources and a nascent Indian export ecosystem, the team persevered, leveraging Kiron’s technical acumen and strategic foresight.
The pandemic tested their resilience further. Yet, true to their ethos, they maintained timely payments to employees and vendors, earning immense goodwill and reinforcing their reputation for reliability.
Milestones That Inspire
From a humble start in Lucknow, Chopra Retec now exports to nearly 30 countries and has established itself in the competitive US, European, and Chinese markets. Their foray into ride control parts—rubber components for steering and suspension systems—underscores their adaptability.
A state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Lucknow symbolizes their commitment to excellence. This expansion, coupled with an unwavering focus on customer experience, has positioned them as a leader in their field.
A Culture of Excellence
The company’s culture is a cornerstone of its success. Kiron’s philosophy is simple yet profound: “Never break the chain of communication. Transparency and empathy are the keys to achieving any organizational goal.” This belief has translated into a workplace where ethical practices and timely commitments build trust among employees, vendors, and clients alike.
Today, over 30% of their workforce comprises women, a testament to their focus on empowerment and inclusion. They also invest in community upliftment, from supporting education for underprivileged children to aiding critically ill patients through NGOs.
The Road Ahead
As the mobility sector transitions from internal combustion engines to electric and alternate fuel vehicles, Chopra Retec is evolving to meet the future head-on. “We hope to be global leaders in the sector we represent,” shares Kiron. Diversification into newer verticals and continuous investment in technology are pivotal to their five-year growth strategy.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Kiron’s journey offers invaluable lessons for budding founders. “Never lose faith in your ability to achieve,” he advises. “Build relationships, stay ethical, and adopt technology at the right time. Luck favors the brave, but hard work is irreplaceable.”
Closing Thoughts
From Lucknow to the world, Chopra Retec Rubber Products Ltd. is a story of innovation, perseverance, and vision. As they continue to redefine boundaries, their journey serves as an inspiration—not just for entrepreneurs but for anyone striving to make a difference.
Follow their story at www.chopraretec.com or connect with Kiron Chopra on LinkedIn.