Knauf India: Comprehensive Corporate Profile

Knauf India (operating as Knauf Gypsum India Pvt. Ltd. and Knauf Ceiling Solutions in the country) is the Indian arm of the Knauf Group, a global leader in gypsum-based drywall systems, ceilings, and building materials. As part of a family-owned enterprise founded in 1932, Knauf today operates in over 90 countries with more than 300 production sites and a workforce of over 41,000 employees worldwide, delivering trusted solutions for modern construction and interior fit-outs.

In India, Knauf provides a comprehensive portfolio spanning plasterboards, metal framing, jointing and finishing systems, gypsum plasters, and ceiling systems, supporting performance needs such as fire safety, acoustics, moisture resistance, and fast-track construction. Following Knauf’s global acquisitions of USG Corporation (2019) and the USG Boral joint venture (2021), the Indian operations were integrated and rebranded to Knauf, aligning local customers with the Group’s global R&D, technical standards, and system warranties.

This comprehensive guide provides essential insights into Knauf India's operations, culture, and recruitment process, equipping readers with the knowledge needed to excel in interviews and understand the company's strategic direction.

1. Company Overview

About Knauf India

Knauf India represents the Knauf Group’s building materials and systems portfolio in the Indian market, focusing on gypsum-based drywall and ceiling solutions for residential, commercial, institutional, healthcare, and industrial applications. The company supplies integrated systems-including plasterboards, metal profiles, jointing and finishing compounds, gypsum plasters, and ceiling tiles and grids-backed by global R&D, system tests, and technical advisory.

Knauf’s entry into India was significantly strengthened through the global integrations of USG (2019) and USG Boral (2021), after which the Indian business was rebranded to Knauf, providing customers with a unified, standards-driven product range and specification support across regions.

Company History

Trace Knauf India's evolution through key periods, highlighting major transformations and growth phases.

• 2006: Knauf India was established and began providing building material solutions under various brand names through subsequent corporate alignments.
• 2019: The Knauf Group’s acquisition of USG Corporation strengthened Knauf India’s market position as part of a major global consolidation.
• 2024: Knauf India reported operating revenue exceeding ₹500 crore with EBITDA growing by nearly 200% year-over-year.
• 2024: The company expanded manufacturing capabilities through facilities such as Khushkhera (Rajasthan) and SriCity (Andhra Pradesh).
• 2024–2025: Knauf India advanced its sustainability agenda, promoting circular construction and targeting 50% lower CO₂ emissions and zero waste by 2032.
• 2024–2025: The company introduced new innovations like gypsum-based GIFAfloor systems for high-performance flooring.
• 2025: Knauf India participated in the GRIHA Summit 2025, showcasing its leadership in sustainable and circular building technologies.

Key Milestones in Knauf India History

Critical achievements that shaped Knauf India's trajectory and market position.

2. Mission, Vision, and Values

Core principles and strategic direction sourced directly from Knauf India's official website.

Mission

The company aims to rethink traditional ideas about insulation and develop new, advanced solutions that improve how buildings are designed and lived in. It emphasizes creating products with genuine concern for three groups

Vision

The company wants to be a global leader in creating smarter and more efficient insulation solutions. It aspires to be the most trusted partner worldwide by offering high-performance products and intelligent services that contribute to a better, more sustainable world.

Core Values

Knauf India's corporate values as officially listed on its website.

• Menschlichkeit: Act responsibly, build an inclusive community, and treat everyone with fairness and respect.
• Partnership: Work as one team, encourage new ideas, take responsibility, and build mutual trust.
• Commitment: Strive to be the best, take ownership, support people’s growth, and always go the extra mile.
• Entrepreneurship: Think boldly, drive innovation, take smart risks, and focus on achieving results.

3. Comprehensive Product and Service Offerings

Knauf India offers integrated gypsum-based drywall and ceiling systems designed for performance, safety, and speed of construction. The portfolio includes plasterboards, metal framing, jointing and finishing systems, gypsum plasters, and a wide range of suspended ceiling tiles and grids, supported by specification services and technical advisory.

1. Drywall (Gypsum Board) Systems

Knauf’s drywall systems replace conventional masonry partitions with lighter, faster, and tested solutions engineered for fire, acoustic, impact, and moisture performance. Systems combine plasterboards with metal framing, jointing, and accessories to meet design, code, and lifecycle requirements across building types.

• Standard Gypsum Plasterboard: Core board for general internal partitions and linings, offering a smooth surface ready for finishing and compatibility with Knauf metal framing and jointing systems.
• Moisture-Resistant Plasterboard: Paper-faced gypsum board with moisture-resistant additives for areas with intermittent humidity exposure such as kitchens and washrooms (with appropriate detailing and ventilation).
• Fire-Resistant Plasterboard: Specialty board used in tested fire-rated wall and ceiling assemblies to help achieve required fire-resistance ratings when installed as part of complete Knauf systems.

2. Ceiling Systems

Through Knauf Ceiling Solutions, Knauf provides suspended ceiling systems that address acoustics, aesthetics, hygiene, and service integration. The range includes mineral fiber, metal, wood, and gypsum-based tiles and planks, paired with suspension grids and perimeter accessories.

• Mineral Fiber Ceiling Tiles: Acoustic tiles for offices, education, and healthcare, balancing sound absorption, fire performance, and visual uniformity when paired with compatible suspension grids.
• Metal Ceiling Systems: Durable metal tiles and linear systems available in perforated and solid options for enhanced acoustics, cleanability, and design flexibility.
• Suspension Grids and Accessories: Complete T-grid and specialty suspension solutions engineered for strength, ease of installation, and coordination with building services.

3. Gypsum Plasters and Finishes

Knauf supplies gypsum-based plasters and finishing solutions that enable faster application, reduced drying times, and high-quality finishes compared to traditional sand-cement rendering for interior walls and ceilings.

• Ready-Mix Gypsum Plasters: Factory-blended gypsum plasters formulated for machine or manual application, delivering smooth, paint-ready surfaces with predictable setting characteristics.
• Skim Coats and Finish Plasters: Thin-coat finishing materials used to achieve fine, even surfaces on boards and rendered substrates before painting.
• Repair and Patch Materials: Gypsum-based fillers designed for snagging, small-area repairs, and surface correction to maintain finish continuity.

4. Metal Profiles and Framing Accessories

Engineered steel studs, tracks, channels, and accessories form the structural backbone of Knauf drywall and ceiling systems, designed for dimensional stability, ease of installation, and system performance.

• Wall Studs and Tracks: Cold-formed steel profiles used to construct partition frames with defined spacing and load capacities for different performance requirements.
• Ceiling Channels and Furring Systems: Profiles and hangers for suspended ceilings and soffits, enabling level alignment and service integration.
• Perimeter and Specialty Profiles: Angles, trims, and beads that ensure clean terminations, movement accommodation, and protection of vulnerable edges.

5. Jointing, Finishing, and Accessories

Complete systems for board jointing, surface finishing, and secure installation help deliver warranted performance and long-term durability when installed to Knauf specifications.

• Jointing Compounds and Tapes: Powder and ready-mix compounds with paper or fiberglass tapes for seamless joints, edge reinforcement, and crack resistance.
• Fasteners and Fixings: Drywall screws, anchors, and related fixings compatible with Knauf boards and metal profiles for reliable attachment.
• Sealants and Acoustic Accessories: Perimeter sealants, acoustic insulation strips, and gaskets that enhance fire, sound, and air-seal performance of assemblies.

4. Key Competitors of Knauf India:

Knauf India operates in gypsum drywall, ceilings, and broader dry construction systems, facing strong competition from established building-materials brands in India such as [Saint-Gobain Gyproc India, Everest Industries, HIL Limited (Aerocon), Ramco Industries (Hilux), Visaka Industries (Vnext)].

These players challenge Knauf India on product breadth (gypsum, fibre cement, and calcium-silicate boards), pricing and distribution reach, and performance specifications in commercial and institutional projects (acoustics, fire/safety, and speed of installation).

1. Saint-Gobain Gyproc India

Part of the Saint-Gobain group, Gyproc is a leading manufacturer of gypsum boards, plasters, metal framing, and ceiling systems in India.

• Overview: Indian business unit of Saint-Gobain’s Gypsum division with multiple plants and a nationwide distribution network.
• Services: Gypsum plasterboards, ceiling tiles and grids, metal framing, jointing compounds, plasters, and complete drywall systems.
• Market Position: A leading brand in gypsum boards and drywall solutions across residential, commercial, and institutional projects in India.

2. Everest Industries

An Indian building materials company offering fibre cement boards, ceilings, wall panels, and roofing solutions.

• Overview: Established in 1934 with multiple manufacturing facilities; known for Everest Boards and Rapicon Wall Panels.
• Services: Fibre cement boards and planks, Rapicon wall panels, ceiling systems, drywall/partition solutions, and roofing sheets.
• Market Position: One of the leading fibre cement board providers in India with strong channel reach and specification presence.

3. HIL Limited (Aerocon)

A CK Birla Group company manufacturing fibre cement boards and Aerocon wall panels for dry construction applications.

• Overview: Formerly Hyderabad Industries Limited; brands include Charminar and Aerocon, with pan-India presence.
• Services: Aerocon wall panels, fibre cement boards, ceiling boards, and related building solutions.
• Market Position: Recognized player in walling and partition systems, competing in commercial and institutional segments.

4. Ramco Industries (Hilux)

Part of the Ramco Group, producing Hilux calcium silicate boards and ceilings alongside fibre cement products.

• Overview: Manufacturer with plants in India; Hilux boards are widely specified for fire-rated partitions, ceilings, and wet-area applications.
• Services: Hilux calcium silicate boards and tiles, fibre cement boards/sheets, and interior wall and ceiling solutions.
• Market Position: Key participant in the calcium-silicate board segment, competing on fire performance and durability.

5. Visaka Industries (Vnext)

Indian manufacturer of fibre cement boards and panels under the Vnext brand, with complementary roofing and integrated solar roofing products.

• Overview: Founded in 1981; Vnext boards and wall solutions are distributed across major Indian markets.
• Services: Vnext fibre cement boards and panels, ceilings, and dry construction/partition systems.
• Market Position: Among prominent fibre cement board brands in India with a growing project and retail footprint.

5. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):

Knauf India demonstrates its commitment to social impact through comprehensive Corporate Social Responsibility programs. The company's initiatives span environmental sustainability, community development, education, and social welfare, reflecting its dedication to creating positive change beyond business operations.

6. Career Opportunities at Knauf India

Knauf India offers diverse career paths across its global operations, providing opportunities for professionals at various stages of their careers. The company's commitment to talent development and inclusive growth creates an environment where individuals can build meaningful and impactful careers.

Job Profiles and Departments

Explore the wide range of professional opportunities available across Knauf India's organizational structure:

• Sales & Business Development: Drive channel and project sales for gypsum systems and ceilings; engage distributors, contractors, architects, and consultants; manage key accounts and territory P&L; forecast demand and execute pricing and promotion plans; use CRM for pipeline visibility. Skills: B2B construction sales, solution selling, specification selling, negotiation, data-driven planning. Growth: Senior Sales Manager, Regional Head, National Key Accounts, or Segment Lead.
• Technical & Specifications (Design Support): Support architects and consultants with system selection and compliance (fire, acoustic, structural, and seismic as applicable); prepare drawings, BOQs, and submittals; validate installation details and site method statements; deliver CPDs and product demos. Skills: Civil/Mechanical background, codes/standards literacy, AutoCAD/Revit, technical writing, stakeholder communication. Growth: Senior Specification Manager, Head of Technical, or Solutions Leader.
• Manufacturing & Plant Operations (Sri City, AP): Run plasterboard production lines and allied processes; oversee operations, maintenance, and utilities; drive OEE, quality yield, and safety; implement Lean/TPM; coordinate with planning and logistics. Skills: Process engineering, continuous improvement, reliability engineering, automation/PLC basics, EHS. Growth: Line Lead, Production Manager, and Plant Leadership roles.
• Quality, EHS & Compliance: Own product and process quality (incoming, in-process, final), lab testing, and certification support; implement ISO-based management systems and safety programs; conduct audits, RCAs, and CAPAs. Skills: QA/QC methods, metrology, statistical tools, risk assessment, regulatory awareness. Growth: Quality Lead, EHS Lead, and Integrated Management Systems Manager.
• Supply Chain, Procurement & Logistics: Manage sourcing of raw materials and packaging; optimize inventory, warehousing, and dispatch; plan S&OP with sales and production; improve freight and service levels. Skills: Demand planning, supplier management, logistics operations, ERP proficiency, analytics. Growth: Procurement Manager, Supply Chain Manager, and Network Operations Lead.
• Marketing & Product Management: Lead category strategy, product launches, and lifecycle management; develop technical collateral, EPD/green documentation support, and channel programs; drive brand, digital campaigns, events, and training content. Skills: Product marketing, market research, content and digital marketing, stakeholder coordination. Growth: Category Manager, Marketing Lead, and APAC product roles.

Growth and Development Opportunities

Knauf India invests significantly in employee development through structured programs and initiatives:

• Knauf Academy (Technical & Commercial Learning): Role-based technical curricula covering drywall, ceilings, finishing, and building physics; hands-on installer training; structured CPDs for specifiers; and commercial excellence modules for sales teams. Blended learning includes classroom, site tool-box sessions, and e-learning.
• Leadership & Manager Development: Managerial skills programs on coaching, feedback, performance management, and cross-functional leadership, aligned to Knauf’s values of entrepreneurship, commitment, partnership, and humanity. Clear progression pathways and succession planning support growth into larger responsibilities.
• International Mobility & Cross-Functional Exposure: Opportunities to collaborate across APAC and the global Knauf network; project assignments with regional technical, operations, and category teams; short-term exchanges to learn global best practices and apply them locally.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Employee-led Kaizen and problem-solving projects in plants and warehouses; product and application feedback loops from sites to technical teams; recognition for ideas that improve safety, quality, and efficiency.
• Diversity, Well-being & Benefits: Inclusive hiring and workplace practices; comprehensive medical coverage; safety-first culture; and initiatives supporting work-life balance through flexible learning, wellness awareness, and supportive policies as per local guidelines.

7. Future Outlook and Strategic Plans

This section presents Knauf India's official strategic direction based on investor presentations, press releases, and sustainability reports. All information is sourced from verified company communications and reflects confirmed initiatives and goals.

Knauf India's future strategy is structured around key focus areas designed to align with global market trends and industry evolution:

1. Digital Transformation

Digitalization supports Knauf’s customer-centric model by making system knowledge, technical data, and service accessible to architects, contractors, and channel partners. In India, the company continues to strengthen digital touchpoints that simplify specification, submittals, and order fulfilment. This includes enriched product and systems information, technical literature, and training content available through unified APAC platforms. Webinars, virtual demonstrations, and e-learning extend outreach and upskilling to dispersed stakeholders.

Internally, standardized processes and data integration post-acquisition enhance planning, inventory, and service reliability. The overarching objective is faster, higher-quality decisions across the value chain-from design and estimation to installation and after-sales-while ensuring documentation remains consistent and up to date.

• Post-acquisition rebrand and migration from USG Boral to Knauf across India, with unified digital assets and documentation (2021–2022).
• Expanded online access to Indian product datasheets, system guides, and technical literature via Knauf APAC portals.
• Regular virtual CPDs and webinars to engage the specification community and installers nationwide.
• Progressive standardization of master data and processes to improve forecast accuracy and on-time delivery.

2. Sustainability and ESG Goals

Sustainability is embedded in Knauf’s manufacturing and product stewardship. The company emphasizes resource efficiency, waste minimization, and responsible sourcing for gypsum and paper liners. Product health and indoor air quality remain priorities, with low-emission products and third-party documentation where available.

Circular-economy measures such as process scrap recovery and initiatives to increase recycled content support reduced environmental impact. Safety and well-being are foundational, reinforced through robust EHS systems and training. In India, these efforts align with customer demand for certified materials and green-building compliance while contributing to Knauf Group’s broader sustainability ambitions.

• Resource- and energy-efficiency programs in gypsum board manufacturing to reduce waste and emissions.
• Ongoing development of environmental documentation (e.g., EPDs/low-VOC proofs) to support green building compliance.
• Continuous enhancement of EHS performance through training, audits, and ISO-aligned management systems.
• Actions to increase circularity, including recovery of process scrap and responsible materials management.

3. Market Expansion

Following the integration of USG Boral’s business in India into the Knauf Group, the company is positioned to broaden its reach across priority segments such as commercial offices, healthcare, education, hospitality, industrial, and residential high-rise. Strategy centers on deeper channel partnerships, strengthened service levels, and consistent technical support to accelerate drywall and ceiling adoption. Manufacturing in India underpins competitiveness and responsiveness, while the broader APAC network enables portfolio breadth and supply resilience.

• Integration of the former USG Boral India operations into Knauf’s APAC network (completed 2021) with subsequent rebranding.
• Local manufacturing of plasterboard at Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, supporting faster service to Indian markets.
• Strengthening distributor networks and project coverage across metros and growth corridors.
• Focused engagement of specifiers and contractors to expand system penetration in targeted verticals.

4. Innovation and R&D

Knauf’s innovation approach combines global R&D expertise with localized application engineering. System development emphasizes safety (fire), performance (acoustics, impact, moisture), speed of installation, and total cost of ownership. Feedback from project sites informs iterative improvements in boards, metal framing, compounds, and accessories. Collaboration with accredited laboratories and adherence to relevant standards ensure reliable, validated performance. In India, technical teams tailor details and documentation to local codes and climatic conditions while leveraging the Group’s global know-how.

• Global gypsum R&D capabilities supporting regional adaptation of system solutions.
• Ongoing product and system enhancements for fire-, moisture-, and impact-resistance and faster installation.
• Testing and validation through accredited labs to meet applicable performance standards.
• Structured feedback loops from Indian job sites to guide product and application improvements.

5. Talent and Workforce Strategy

People development is central to Knauf’s values-driven culture. The company invests in technical, commercial, and leadership capability-building through the Knauf Academy and structured manager programs. Safety, inclusion, and well-being are foundational to a high-performance workplace. Career mobility across functions and geographies supports retention and knowledge transfer, while strong frontline training uplifts installer ecosystems critical to quality execution.

• Targeted hiring in sales, technical, manufacturing, and supply chain to support growth in India.
• Inclusive, values-led culture emphasizing safety, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Role-based upskilling, certification, and leadership development through Knauf Academy.
• Mobility opportunities within the wider Knauf APAC and global network.

6. Financial Performance Goals

As a privately owned company, Knauf focuses on long-term value creation rather than short-term disclosures. Capital is allocated to resilient growth, operational excellence, safety, sustainability, and customer service. In India and APAC, investments prioritize manufacturing capability, logistics efficiency, and product availability to deliver superior service and reliability.

• Emphasis on sustainable, profitable growth supported by operational excellence.
• Ongoing capital investments in APAC manufacturing and distribution capabilities.
• No public dividend or buyback policy disclosures, consistent with private ownership.
• Continuous cost and productivity programs (Lean/TPM) to enhance competitiveness.

9. Latest News & Updates about Knauf India

Stay informed about Knauf India's recent developments, announcements, and industry recognition through curated news coverage.

10. Conclusion

Founded in 1932, Knauf is a global, family-owned leader in building materials. In India, the company’s presence has been strengthened by the integration of the former USG Boral business and local plasterboard manufacturing at Sri City, enabling responsive service and a broad systems portfolio for walls, ceilings, and finishing.

Guided by values of entrepreneurship, commitment, partnership, and humanity, Knauf India emphasizes product performance, safety, and responsible manufacturing. Its outlook focuses on digital enablement, sustainability, and market expansion across key segments, positioning the company as a trusted partner for specifiers, contractors, and developers in India’s evolving construction landscape.

For candidates, Knauf India offers structured careers in sales, technical support, manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and marketing. Employees benefit from Knauf Academy learning paths, hands-on project exposure, and a culture that prioritizes safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement. With local manufacturing and global expertise, the company provides meaningful opportunities to build expertise in modern construction systems and to grow into leadership roles while contributing to high-quality, sustainable buildings across India.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Knauf India Candidates

• Research and Preparation: Thoroughly understand Knauf India's business model, recent developments, and strategic initiatives. Stay updated on industry trends and the company's competitive positioning to demonstrate genuine interest and knowledge during interviews.
• Cultural Alignment: Familiarize yourself with Knauf India's values, mission, and corporate culture. Prepare examples from your experience that demonstrate alignment with these principles and showcase how you can contribute to the company's objectives.
• Technical Competency: Develop relevant skills and knowledge specific to your target role at Knauf India. Understand the technical requirements and industry standards that apply to your area of interest within the organization.
• Industry Awareness: Stay informed about broader industry trends, challenges, and opportunities that affect Knauf India's business. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful discussions about the company's strategic direction and market position.