9 minute read
Navelcar Enterprises
Shaping Goa's Architecture: The Rise of Navelcar Enterprises
Navelcar Enterprises stands as a testament to innovation, growth, and the enduring spirit of entrepreneurship. Founded in 1976 by the Late Purshottam Vinaeca Navelcar at the young age of 19, the company has navigated a dynamic business landscape to become a leader in the building materials industry in Goa. With a family business history dating back to 1908, Navelcar Enterprises has consistently adapted to changing market conditions, driven by a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
The Founding of Navelcar Enterprises
The family had been in business for two generations under the sister concern Firma P V P Navelcar, headed by Late Vinaeca Navelcar, started in 1908, dealing with hardware and paints. However, reducing margins of paint sales due to increased competition pushed Purshottam towards looking for new avenues for growth. Drawing from the background of marketing plywood and hardboard for
the firm during the Portuguese regime in Goa, he strategically converted the business to building materials— specifically, plywood and laminates. Knowledge of this new trade was absolutely necessary, so he corresponded extensively with the manufacturers through postal and fax methods, as there were no mobile phones or internet. He also made many personal visits to the factories. To lessen the risk initially, he purchased a small tempo load of Plywood from M/S Bhatkhande, Belgaum.
Plywood, being in heavy demand, the business took off. In a few years, Navelcar Enterprises was directly purchasing truckloads of Plywood from the manufacturer. And then, to enter the niche market of Laminates, it tied up with Sundek in 1981,with purchasing material by truckload.This was a first of a kind deal that set a new trend in Goa for buying material by the truckload. The current management team at Navelcar Enterprises includes Mr. Vijay Navelcar, Mrs. Krupa Navelcar, Mrs. Lavina Naik, Mrs. Isha Navelker, and Mr. Sharmad Navelker, who bring their unique expertise to the table. who bring their unique expertise to the table.
Expansion and Showroom Development
By 2009, Navelcar Enterprises had expanded to eight stores across Goa. Each store, however, lacked a dedicated display section. In 2017, encouraged by vendors, particularly Glo Décor, the company embarked on creating a showroom. Collaborating with architects from Glo and drawing inspiration from showrooms outside Goa, the initial intent to showcase decorative products evolved into a comprehensive display centre at St. Inez. This showroom now exhibits over 800 laminates and 300 veneers, with a floor dedicated to decorative products, ceiling and wall panels and flooring significantly enhancing customer satisfaction by allowing them to view full sheets rather than small catalogue samples.
Bolstered by this success, the company subsequently transformed stores in Aquem, Vasco, and Mapusa into showrooms as well, continuously striving to improve and better serve their valued customers.
Navelcar Enterprises serves their own stores and customers from their godown in Bainguinim.
Strong Connections and Reliable Sourcing
Navelcar Enterprises had developed a strong business base through directly dealing with all the manufacturers of laminates, doors, and veneer. The long-time associations with the manufacturers, some spanning over 30 years, enable them to source materials by truckloads and maintain sufficient inventory to meet the requirements of clients. These long-standing associations reflect Navelcar Enterprises' commitment to quality and reliability, enabling them to supply top-quality products to their clients consistently. With these enduring partnerships, they ensure a continuous supply of quality materials, establishing their reputation as a reliable supplier in the market.
Challenges in the Decorative and Building Materials Industry
Since the time GST has come into effect, the competition landscape has changed dramatically. This new tax regime has increased the number of dealers who operate at the fringes, which are easy to enter because of the ease with which materials can be sourced from out of state. This tends to be a growing trend, with contractors from outside
the state of Goa preferring to purchase material from their suppliers in other states based on existing relationships and credit terms. The market faces additional challenges with the proliferation of counterfeit materials, which undermines quality and erodes trust. It is also challenging to navigate the credit market or to procure the material timely, especially in smaller quantities. All these factors together add to a more complex and competitive environment that needs alertness and adaptability to maintain their standards and serve their customers effectively.
Ensuring Quality Through Rigorous Processes
With nearly half a century of experience in the industry, Navelcar Enterprises proudly works with well-known and reputable companies. Quality and reliability are paramount, maintained through a stringent process before any product reaches the market. They meticulously review product documentation and conduct intensive internal testing. Samples are then distributed to customers for valuable feedback. The market launch proceeds only when they are fully confident in the product's performance and quality. This strict commitment ensures that they deliver only the best products, supported by their decades-long heritage.
The Importance of Customer Feedback
Customer feedback is the lifeline of Navelcar Enterprises. "The customer is always right regarding taste and choice" is not merely a saying for them. Though they have their preferences, they are often pleased with their customers' tastes. Listening actively to customer feedback helps them introduce new and appealing offerings. In fact, one of their best sellers was recommended by a customer! This dynamic interaction ensures that their product range remains relevant and exciting.
Current Trends in Interior Design
Among their products, Navelcar Enterprises has observed a growing preference for louvred options. Initially, customers preferred PVC and MDF louvres, but there is now an increasing demand for louvred laminates in both Kraft and Acrylic. In the laminate category, there is a slight rise in demand for digital and stone laminates, while the demand for wood designs remains strong. Additionally, there is increased interest in Charco decors, while traditional tastes such as teak and walnut continue to maintain their popularity.
Staying Ahead of Industry Trends
They are fortunate to be among the first to learn about new products from their suppliers, giving them an early insight into the latest innovations. Additionally, they actively visit exhibitions across India to stay abreast of industry trends and regularly follow online channels for updates. Their customers also play a vital role in keeping them informed, often sharing exciting finds from platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. If a desired product is not in their current inventory, they leverage their extensive network to source it. This proactive approach ensures they always offer the most contemporary and sought-after materials to their clients.
Success Stories and Memorable Projects
A reputed builder in Goa had an inquiry for a unique door design. Despite approaching multiple vendors and carpenters, the design proved challenging to execute, and the architect was not willing to settle for anything less than perfect. When they approached
Navelcar Enterprises, they contacted their manufacturer and successfully had the doors made to their specifications. This experience was memorable for Navelcar Enterprises because they delivered where many others had failed or perhaps not even attempted.
Future Plans and Strategic Initiatives
Navelcar Enterprises future plans are centred on enhancing efficiency, particularly in logistics and inventory management. Last year, they upgraded their backend system to provide real-time data, significantly improving their operational capabilities. Additionally, they are transforming some of their stores into showrooms to better showcase their products. They are constantly on the lookout for new and exciting products that align with their offerings, ensuring they continue to meet and exceed their customers' expectations. These strategic initiatives reflect their commitment to innovation and excellence in serving their clientele.
In 2020, Navelcar Enterprises expanded into the hospitality sector with the opening of their Banquet Hall, Salle 59, on Kadamba Plateau.
Digital Transformation: Embracing New Technologies
Embracing digital transformation has been crucial for their business. Their data is securely stored on the cloud, and using UPI and Google Pay has made their processes smoother. Despite fewer visits to their physical stores during the pandemic, communication over WhatsApp kept their business going strong. Most of their sales happened over the phone during this time, showing their adaptability and dedication to customer relations even in tough times. This seamless use of technology has not only kept them in business but also set them up for future growth.
Commitment to Sustainability
Navelcar Enterprises places a high priority on sustainability, focusing on three key aspects to ensure they meet both environmental and customer needs.
Renewable Resources: The company uses products sourced from renewable resources, which are inherently more sustainable. Most of their products, by volume, are made from wood or wood-based materials, considered renewable resources.
Product Longevity: The greater the longevity of a product, the more sustainable it is. Navelcar Enterprises prioritises delivering long-lasting products. For instance, during a recent site visit for a renovation project, a client proudly displayed a piece of Truwood plywood purchased 20 years ago. The client mentioned that all his furniture was made from this plywood and it remained in excellent condition. This reflects the company's core principle of supplying durable materials, enhancing their sustainability profile
Production and Transportation Impact: While they have limited control over production processes, Navelcar Enterprises partners with companies whose products are certified by a Green Building Body. They prefer Indianmanufactured goods over imported ones, which reduces transportation-related emissions. This approach not only gives them more control over their supply chain but also supports the Indian industry.
By focusing on these aspects, Navelcar Enterprises upholds its commitment to sustainability while continuing to meet its customers' needs.
The Future of Interior Design and Building Materials in India
The future looks bright for Navelcar Enterprises as the market grows across India, especially with a real estate boom in Goa. With a growing economy, higher incomes, and a desire for a better life, they expect the market to grow soon. Their customers are becoming more aware of product quality and brand value, and are often willing to pay more for better products. Navelcar Enterprises believes this trend will continue as people become more educated and focused on their well-being.
