Building India’s Kitchens: Rajendra Gandhi on the StoveKraft Growth Story

• Tell us about your entrepreneurial journey.

My entrepreneurial journey began in 1999 when I founded StoveKraft with a small manufacturing unit focused on kerosene wick stoves and LPG stoves. The core philosophy from day one was to build products that were high on quality and fairly priced, with the consumer at the center of every decision.

Over the years, we steadily expanded our manufacturing capabilities, strengthened operational excellence, and nurtured a culture of innovation. Today, StoveKraft’s portfolio goes far beyond gas stoves and pressure cookers to include air fryers, OTGs, chimneys and hobs, personal grooming devices, and innovative cookware.

We operate one of the largest manufacturing facilities in the industry at Harohalli near Bengaluru, along with units in Himachal Pradesh. Our brands—Pigeon, Gilma, and Black + Decker—reach millions of consumers across India and are widely trusted. We also export to more than 14 countries. Our focus continues to be on creating affordable, reliable products that make everyday cooking simpler, more efficient, and enjoyable.

• What inspired you to start StoveKraft?

We identified a clear gap in the market for high-quality kitchen products at accessible prices. The inspiration came from the opportunity to build a company rooted in practical innovation and mass-scale manufacturing. What truly motivated me was the ability to create meaningful impact at scale by improving everyday cooking experiences for Indian households. That vision continues to guide StoveKraft even today.

• How did StoveKraft begin, and how has the journey been so far?

• What has been the biggest milestone for the company?

One of our most significant milestones was our successful IPO in January 2021, with listings on the NSE and BSE. This marked a new phase of growth and expansion. Globally, our stature strengthened through supplies to Walmart and a landmark worldwide cookware supply partnership with IKEA, under which StoveKraft will supply cookware to IKEA stores globally starting in 2026.

On the domestic front, crossing 300 exclusive brand outlets in 2025 was another major milestone, expanding our retail footprint across more than 120 cities and towns. Together, these achievements reflect StoveKraft’s transformation from a modest enterprise into a globally trusted kitchen solutions company.

• When did StoveKraft adopt the franchising model?

We began scaling our franchising model in FY 2023–24, transitioning from a company-owned, company-operated model to a franchise-led network. In FY 2024–25, we onboarded over 100 new franchise partners, witnessing strong traction for Pigeon Exclusive Stores across key markets. Today, we have more than 150 active franchise partners, enabling faster, asset-light expansion and stronger regional penetration. 

• What is your management mantra? How do you manage stress?

My management mantra is passion, clarity, consistency, and compassion. I believe in setting a clear direction, empowering teams, and staying closely connected to consumer needs. Managing multiple priorities comes with the role, and I handle it by staying organized and focused on what truly matters. Passion for the kitchen and home appliances industry keeps me grounded, optimistic, and motivated.

• Your advice to young entrepreneurs?

Stay curious, resilient, and willing to learn. Focus on understanding customers, building strong teams, and empowering them. Execution is more important than excessive planning. Be prepared to take calculated risks, persevere through challenges, and always envision a bigger dream.

• Which are StoveKraft’s most important markets in India?

StoveKraft is a pan-India company today, serving over 19,100 pin codes. The southern region remains a stronghold for us, given our roots and leadership in both appliances and cookware categories. 

• What are StoveKraft’s expansion plans for FY26?

We are accelerating the national rollout of Pigeon Exclusive Outlets, with a target of reaching 500 stores by 2027. A robust innovation pipeline is underway, with upcoming launches in smart appliances, compact cookware, outdoor appliances, and bakeware. Dedicated manufacturing capacity is being created to support global partnerships, including supplies to IKEA starting in 2026.

Internationally, we are present in over 14 countries and are evaluating new markets across Asia, Africa, Australasia, and the Middle East. Growth is supported by our strong manufacturing base, including a fully operational cast-iron foundry at Harohalli and plans for new production and R&D facilities.

• Where do you see StoveKraft in five years?

Over the next five years, we aim to establish StoveKraft as a truly pan-India leader in kitchen and home solutions while significantly strengthening our global footprint. The focus will be on expanding our retail network and diversifying into newer categories, including personal care and small appliances.

• How has the kitchen appliances market evolved in recent years? 

Over the last five years, the market has shifted from basic utility products to convenience- and lifestyle-driven solutions. Rising incomes, nuclear families, and changing lifestyles have increased consumers’ willingness to invest in appliances. Demand today spans essential products as well as compact, energy-efficient small appliances. Health-focused choices and premium cookware are gaining traction, supported by the rapid growth of organized retail and e-commerce.

• How do you see the market evolving over the next five years?

Indian consumers will increasingly seek healthier, smarter, durable, and design-led kitchen solutions. Sustainability, aesthetics, and energy efficiency will become key decision drivers. StoveKraft is well positioned to lead this transition through backward-integrated manufacturing, an expanding retail footprint, and consistent product innovation.

• How will StoveKraft cater to Tier II and Tier III cities?

Tier II and Tier III cities are key growth drivers. We are strengthening our presence through localized retail expansion, robust distribution networks, and region-specific product offerings. We also invest in digital outreach, awareness campaigns, and on-ground demonstrations to help consumers understand the long-term value of modern kitchen appliances.

• What are the key industry trends today? 

Three major trends stand out: a strong focus on health and sustainability, increasing demand for premium and design-led products, and growing interest in smart, user-friendly appliances that enhance convenience.

• How important is franchising to StoveKraft’s future growth?

Franchising is a critical pillar of our growth strategy. It enables faster expansion with lower capital intensity while offering deeper local-market insights. Franchising will power our next phase of growth as we scale from 300 to 500 exclusive outlets nationwide.

• How does StoveKraft support and select its franchisees?

We provide end-to-end support, including training, marketing, operational guidance, technology tools, and inventory management systems. Franchise partners are selected through a structured process that evaluates alignment with our brand values, customer-centric mindset, local market understanding, and financial readiness.