Alcoi: offering end-to-end fenestration solutions

The point when different human communities in different parts of the world began the shift to an agricultural life, was when a host of new changes were perpetrated across our collective consciousness. For instance, the constant improvements in housing, textiles, food stuffs and healthcare. We moved from small communities to centralized nation-states. Now, connected by the internet, we’re trying to go beyond. Where exactly, we do not know yet. However, there are some patterns and indications that we can think of, to keep ourselves directed towards the future. 

For instance, the shift towards sustainability and adopting greener solutions whenever possible. Many are looking out to do their fair share of being a part of a cause greater than themselves. There can be no bigger macro challenge for our complex global economy than the consequences of climate change on the health and welfare of humans everywhere. We collectively need to upgrade our infrastructure and thinking at the same time. All of us can choose our own niche markets and interests and do our bit. 

Engineering firms and ventures who manufacture the products we need for all sorts of applications, from the steel and cement for our buildings to precision-engineered electronics, possess a unique vantage point of it all. Today, at Bangalore Insider, we spoke to Nitin Mehta, the founder of Alcoi, a company that makes fenestration systems for residential and commercial customers. Below are the excerpts from our interaction.  

Give a brief info about your brand?

Alcoi is a full-service provider of precision-engineered, environment-friendly, high-performance residential and commercial fenestration systems for homeowners, contractors and architects. Since its formation in 2006, ALCOI has been dedicated to developing eco-friendly fenestration systems that benefit sustainable habitats. We offer end-to-end fenestration solutions which comprise the complete professional package from conception to installation

What made you start your brand, and what problem does it solve?

In 1984, I started Aloci after recognising that aluminium systems were viable alternatives to conventional wooden systems that provide exceptional strength for longevity. On the other hand, Wood windows expand, wrap, and contract during the end of the year as temperatures and humidity levels change. In addition, damaged seals may cause the wood frame to soak, necessitating replacing the window

Tell us about yourself, your previous jobs/ventures? What were you doing before this startup?

I managed the family’s metal rims export business during my first eight years, which required travelling overseas extensively. Here, I saw and learned about new products that had potential on the Indian market

Where is your brand based? Why do you think that is the best place for you?

We are based out of Panchkula, Haryana, close to Chandigarh ( designed by the renowned Architect Le-Corbusier). Starting in Punjab, the brand soon expanded across the country. Branding has nothing to do with geography but is more about delivering excellence and promises – like we have in the last 12 years and continue to do so. | Now may just be the right time to expand in newer territories.

As a brand founder, what are you paranoid about? What keeps you awake at night?

A brand must surpass the expectations of every individual it touches. For this to happen consistently, there needs to be a continual improvement in understanding customer needs and preferences across all regions. My main concern lies in improving customer experiences through our products. There is no more significant reason than a dissatisfied customer resulting in lousy night sleep.

Who are your competitors, and how are you better than them?

The MNCs that we essentially compete with include Schuco, AluK, etc.
Our focus on customers is what makes us different from our competitors. In addition to the efforts that we have taken to appoint Channel Partners to expand our reach, we still believe that hands-on sales and marketing teams can help us monitor customer satisfaction levels and provide valuable inputs during the product’s sales cycle.

How hard is it to have a work-life balance as a startup founder, and how do you manage it?

It is tough initially when one has to manage multiple functions. One should be flexible and open to working with a diverse team, especially young and qualified professionals, to build a robust organisation that automatically helps you strike a work-life balance. Alongside, loving what you do is important too

Have you raised funding? If yes, then we would like to know the details. If not, then please tell us if you are looking to expand.

The venture is self-funded. Its expansion needs are met with loans from banks. Should a promising opportunity present itself, we might seek venture capital.

What’s the most prominent misconception people have about you? Why do they have that? What’s the reality?

We are an Indian company that provides European standard quality and designs. This may sound surprising to many, but this stereotype changes when they see our products. Indians are often biased towards European fenestrations, assuming that it must be of high quality, which might not be the case always.

While European brands are using our country to extend the life of their old technology products, Indian brands are very aware of the locals’ needs and have tailored their products accordingly

What gets you excited about this company?

I am excited about the company’s future because I see it growing exponentially over the next 5-10 years despite the presence of several MNCs as competitors. We attribute this growth to our amazing team and their efforts

Tell us how a day in your life looks like? Your schedule for a day right from when you get up till you hit the bed at night.

I am an early riser, and my day starts with an hour session of yoga and playing tennis, followed by preparing for the office. After that, I spend around 8-9 hours at work, after which it is family and dinner time.  I also make it a point to read a book, listen to a spiritual podcast or watch a tennis lesson on YouTube dozing off.

Tell us about your team and how did you meet each other?

I have known some of the team members for a long time. However, as the product potential continued to gain prominence, I connected with industry experts to help us seal up the same. As they say, “good people attract good people” – and this helped us set up a hard-working, efficient team.