History

History of Balmer Lawrie: Highlights and Key Developments

Balmer Lawrie's journey from an interest in oil exploration to becoming India's leading grease producer is marked by resilience, strategic partnerships, and innovation. Their ability to adapt to changing market conditions and focus on niche markets has solidified their position in the industry. The establishment of the Applications Research Laboratory was a crucial step in maintaining their technological edge and developing specialized products.

Corporate Journey
Adventure in Oil

1878-1910

1878
Balmer Lawrie applied for petroleum and other finds rights in Assam but was not granted the concession.
1881
Assam Railways & Trading secured extensive concessions and succeeded in oil exploration in Digboi, near Balmer Lawrie's applied area.
Early 1900s
Balmer Lawrie maintained its interest in oil through the Assam Oil Syndicate, which was later taken over by Assam Oil.
1910
Balmer Lawrie attempted another oil venture in Re-lai Sang, North Assam, but it did not materialize.

Corporate Journey
Greases and Specialities

1930 - 1937

1930
Balmer Lawrie imported and distributed lubricating oils, later expanding to blended oils, including motor oils from Alexander Duckhams in 1933.
1937
Began manufacturing grease at Peelkhana, Howrah, along with 'Balarene' (disinfectant) and 'Killem' (insecticide), targeting tea gardens.

Corporate Journey
Initial Challenges and Growth

1940 - 1950

1940s
Expanded production in Bombay; repackaged grease for Burmah Shell.
1946
Faced challenges with Grease No. 1 production, but management decided to continue despite setbacks.
1950s
Attempted to gain expertise from UK companies but had to develop skills internally. Mr. Paul Gonsalves, a key figure, joined in 1954, later known as the 'Father' of the Indian grease industry.

Corporate Journey
Key Business Developments

1953 - 1960

1953
Entered a pivotal agreement with Burmah Shell and Caltex to process greases in return for transferring its lubricating oils business.
1960
Emerged as India's largest grease producer, supplying to Castrol, Gulf Oil, Shell, and Caltex, in addition to its own formulations.

Corporate Journey
Changes in the Oil Industry

1970 - 1978

1970s
Nationalization of major oil companies led to a shift, with Balmer Lawrie focusing on direct sales and niche markets.
1978
Established the Applications Research Laboratory to develop specialities and high-performance products.

Corporate Journey
Applications Research Laboratory and Expansion

1981 - 1987

1981
Applications Research Laboratory officially set up in Kolkata.
1980
Shifted focus to high-performance and specialty products, especially synthetic, eco-friendly, and food-grade lubricants.
1987
Opened a new grease plant in Madras to meet growing demands and logistical needs.