The Oz connection to 'Mysore sandal' soap factory

FOR the last 107 years, Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL) has enraptured the state with its sandalwood soaps. However, dwindling sandalwood tree cover in the country, apart from the need to serve diverse customers, has prompted KSDL – the maker of iconic ‘Mysore Sandal’ soap – to reimagine its strategy, with an investment of ₹ 500 crore.

- AGITHIK MIRAR EAGADE

The company’s roadmap includes expansion, modernization and diversification, with a vision to secure Rs 4,000 crore turnover by March 2026, sai MB Patil, Minister for Large and Medium Industries and Infrastructure Development. The plan includes expanding in other markets with new offerings, cultivating a robust raw material supply chain and manufacturing base, and entering new product segments.

Around 81% of KSDL’s sales come from South India, on the back of Mysore Sandal soap (in 75 gm, 125 gm and 150 gm SKUs of Classic, Gold, etc), while the East contributes 9%, West 6%, and North 2.5%. It now wants to improve its presence beyond South India, and will launch soaps of lime, turmeric, lavender, neem, rose, jasmine, and transparent, primarily aimed at North India. Priced at Rs 20, these bars address factors of per capita income, awareness, and distinct customer preferences. KSDL is also scouting for 3-4 contract manufacturers to outsource production for that market, and ensure economies of scale.