Shri S.P. Sambandam (Founder)
Sambandam Spinning Mills Limited (SSML) stands as a beacon of resilience and innovation in the textile industry, celebrating its 50th anniversary on November 11th, 2024. Founded in 1973 by the visionary Shri S.P. Sambandam and his brothers, the company has transformed from a modest spinning mill into a significant player in the global textile market. This article chronicles SSML’s remarkable journey, highlights its golden jubilee celebrations, and showcases its commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR).
The Founding Vision
The inception of Sambandam Spinning Mills can be traced back to the entrepreneurial spirit of the Sambandam brothers—Shri S.P. Ratnam, Shri S.P. Sambandam, and Shri S.P. Rajendran. Coming from a lineage deeply rooted in the yarn trade, they recognized the potential for establishing a spinning mill that would not only cater to local weavers but also provide employment opportunities in their hometown of Ammapet.
In the 1970s, India’s textile industry was heavily regulated under a licensing system, presenting significant challenges for new enterprises. Nevertheless, the brothers identified a niche in waste cotton spinning and commenced operations with 3,000 spindles using second-hand machinery to produce yarns up to 14s count. This strategic move laid the foundation for what would become a thriving enterprise.
Chronological Journey
1942-1970: Pre-Establishment Era
- 1942: Three brothers (S.P. Ratnam, S.P. Sambandam, S.P. Rajendran) begin yarn trading
- Family procures yarn from various spinning mills in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh
- Developed strong network with handloom and powerloom weavers in Salem region
1973-1977: Foundational Years
🔗 1973: Company Inception
- Initial setup with 3,000 spindles
- Focus on waste cotton spinning
- Used second-hand machinery
- Produced yarns up to 14s count
🔗 1978: Strategic Transformation
- Government introduces de-licensing scheme
- Incorporated as Private Limited Company
- Leadership Roles Defined:
- S.P. Ratnam: Chairman
- S.P. Sambandam: Managing Director
- S.P. Rajendran: Director
1980-1990: Expansion Phase
🔗 1980-1983: Unit I Development
- Raised fresh share capital
- Secured term loans from SBI, TIIC, SIPCOT
- Installed 25,000 modern spindles
- Began producing diverse yarn counts
🔗 1988: Kandagiri Spinning Mills (Unit I)
- Established in Udayapatti, Salem
- 25,000 spindles
- State-of-the-art machinery
🔗 Early 1990s: Mallur Siddeswara Spinning Mills
- Initially 6,000 second-hand spindles
- Transformed with new machinery
- Expanded to 25,000 spindles by 1993
1994-2000: Public Issues and Growth
🔗 1994: Public Offering Milestone
- Successfully launched public issues
- Oversubscribed 10 times
- Raised funds through public issues and institutional loans
- Installed advanced machinery from global suppliers
🔗 1997: Sambandam Siva Textiles
- Established as sixth unit
- Joint venture with NRI Dr. R. Elangovan
- Located at Seshanchavadi, Vazhapadi
2000-2010: Strategic Realignment
🔗 2002: Family Business Partition
- Strategic division of joint ventures
- Each brother takes charge of respective units
- Ensured continued family prosperity
🔗 2006: Unit I Modernization
- Comprehensive modernization program
- Invested ₹50 Crores in new machinery
- Increased spindle capacity to 40,392
🔗 2009: Unit III Establishment
- Responded to market demand
- Installed 23,000 new spindles
- Added separate gassing unit
- Total spindleage reached 91,108 spindles
Current Status (2024)
🔗 Company Snapshot
- Turnover: 350 crore+
- 4 Manufacturing Units
- 2,400 Employees
- 1,25,000 Spindles Capacity
- Exports to 50+ international markets
- Multiple international certifications (ISO, GOTS, BCI, etc.)
Future Vision
Continuing the legacy of:
- Unmatched product quality
- Technological innovation
- Sustainable manufacturing
- Social responsibility
Milestones in Growth
Incorporation and Expansion
A pivotal moment for SSML came in 1978 when the Government of India introduced a de-licensing scheme, allowing for greater flexibility in operations. SSML was incorporated as a Private Limited Company with defined leadership roles: Sri S.P. Ratnam as Chairman, Sri S.P. Sambandam as Managing Director, and Sri S.P. Rajendran as Director.
By 1983, SSML expanded its operations significantly by installing 25,000 modern spindles funded through share capital and loans from institutions such as SBI and TIIC. This expansion not only diversified their product range but also solidified their reputation within the industry.
Further Units and Technological Advancements
Over the years, SSML established several additional units.
- Kandagiri Spinning Mills (P) Ltd: Operational by 1988 with 25,000 spindles.
- Mallur Siddeswara Spinning Mills (P) Ltd: Acquired and modernized by SSML in 1993.
- Sambandam Siva Textiles (P) Ltd: A joint venture established in 1997 that further increased capacity.
By 2006, modernization efforts at Unit I significantly enhanced spindle capacity with state-of-the-art machinery sourced from leading suppliers worldwide.
Family Legacy and Strategic Realignment
In 2002, after decades of collaboration among the brothers, a strategic partition was made to allow each brother to lead their respective ventures independently. This decision respected their contributions while ensuring sustained growth for future generations.
Commitment to Quality and Innovation
From its inception, Sambandam Spinning Mills has prioritized quality and innovation. The establishment of a dedicated Research & Development centre equipped with advanced testing facilities has allowed SSML to maintain stringent quality standards across its diverse product range:
- 100% Cotton Yarns: Premium combed yarns and specialty yarns like core-spun slub yarn.
- Blended Yarns: Various blends including cotton-polyester and bamboo.
- Fancy Yarns: Unique offerings such as neppy yarns and multi-colour neppy yarns.
SSML actively participates in national and international exhibitions to showcase its products while understanding market demands better.
Certifications and Achievements
The company proudly holds numerous certifications, including QMS: ISO 9001, EMS: ISO 14001, and OHSMS: ISO 45001, alongside GOTS, OCS, GRS, RCS, OEKOTEX, BCI, REGENAGRI, KASTURI, HIGG INDEX, and SLCP. Trusted by brands like C&A and Inditex, their Sambandam Unit I has also received the esteemed 5S Platinum Award.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Sambandam Spinning Mills Limited is deeply committed to corporate social responsibility, reflecting the vision of its founder. Through various initiatives focusing on healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability, SSML aims to make a meaningful impact on society.
Healthcare Initiatives:
S.P. Palaniandi Mudaliar Memorial Hospital
- S.P. Palaniandi Mudaliar Memorial Hospital: A multi-speciality hospital offering advanced cardiac care with 100 beds. It provides concessional treatment for all patients, including free surgeries for underprivileged individuals.
- Artificial Limb Fitment Camps: For over three decades, SSML has collaborated with local organizations to conduct annual camps providing free artificial limbs to amputees.
Educational Initiatives:
- Sengunthar Education Trust: Established in 1982, this trust has founded several educational institutions aimed at providing vocational training and higher education to underprivileged students from rural areas:
- Salem Polytechnic College (1983)
- Salem Polytechnic Industrial Training Institute (1992)
- Sengunthar Matriculation Higher Secondary School (1999)
- Support for Local Schools: Annual contributions are made to nearby government schools for infrastructure improvements such as toilet facilities and drinking water access.
Environmental Sustainability:
SSML has made significant investments in renewable energy sources:
- Wind Electric Generators: A total capacity of 12.35 MW installed in Kanyakumari District.
- Solar Power Plant: A 10 MW solar power plant with both ground-mounted and rooftop installations enhances self-reliance in energy production.
Additionally, rainwater harvesting systems across all units contribute significantly towards sustainable practices by utilizing collected water for humidification and gardening purposes.
Golden Jubilee Celebrations
The golden jubilee celebrations of SSML were marked by grandeur and reflection on its illustrious journey. The celebrations also served as a platform for leadership to outline future goals while reinforcing their commitment to quality, sustainability, and social responsibility.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter
As SSML celebrates its Golden Jubilee alongside the centenary of its founder Shri S.P. Sambandam, it reflects on its rich history while looking forward to future opportunities. The leadership emphasizes continued innovation while adhering to sustainable practices that respect both people and the planet.
The company aims to enhance customer experiences through innovative products while nurturing talent within its workforce. With a robust foundation built on integrity and excellence, Sambandam Spinning Mills Limited is poised for continued success in the textile industry.
In conclusion, the story of Sambandam Spinning Mills Limited is one of vision, resilience, and commitment that spans fifty years. From humble beginnings to becoming a major player in textiles today, SSML embodies the spirit of innovation intertwined with community service instilled by its founders. As it moves forward into its next chapter, it carries not just a legacy but also an unwavering dedication to quality and social responsibility that will guide its future endeavours.
Through this celebration of fifty years of excellence, Sambandam Spinning Mills Limited not only honours its past but also sets ambitious goals for tomorrow ensuring that it remains at the forefront of the textile industry while making meaningful contributions to society at large.
