KRBL integrates Bühler’s Eco Dryers to boost efficiency, elevate basmati rice quality
Bühler’s Eco Dry technology is recognised for its gentle, uniform drying, which minimises grain breakage and maintains integrity.
INDIA – KRBL Limited, India’s largest exporter of Basmati rice and the parent company of the globally renowned India Gate brand, has partnered with Switzerland-based Bühler Group to implement its state-of-the-art Eco Dry paddy dryers.
The integration, already operational on both 6-pass and 7-pass processing lines, marks a major step toward enhancing processing efficiency, reducing energy usage, and elevating rice quality for global and domestic markets.
Bühler’s Eco Dry technology is recognised for its gentle, uniform drying, which minimises grain breakage and maintains integrity, key factors for meeting premium export standards. These dryers are engineered with advanced airflow optimization and heat recovery systems, which help cut energy consumption significantly during the drying phase.
As a result, KRBL has reported a notable increase in sales revenue, directly linked to the improved product quality and consistency delivered by the upgraded drying systems.
“We are honoured to support KRBL in their journey toward excellence. Our Eco Dryers strike the perfect balance between efficiency and grain preservation, which is crucial for a high-value product like Basmati rice,” noted Buhler.
This partnership complements KRBL’s broader strategy of combining tradition with innovation. The company has recently made headlines for its collaboration with Landor India, aimed at transforming consumer interaction with the Basmati rice category.
Understanding that consumers often struggle to differentiate among rice varieties, Landor’s Insights & Analytics team conducted deep market research to uncover core consumer mindsets. The findings informed a consumer-centric portfolio navigation and packaging design for India Gate, tailored to guide shoppers in making more informed purchasing decisions.
The new packaging employs visually engaging illustrations inspired by Indian folk art with a modern twist, addressing diverse needs, whether it’s consistency, quality, or value.
In addition to refreshed branding and a modernized logo, the packaging includes detailed product descriptors and a scannable digital interface, offering consumers a richer, more interactive buying experience.
Kunal Sharma, Head of Marketing & Business Head – Modern Trade & Ecommerce at KRBL, commented, “Our collaboration with Landor has been pivotal in redefining how consumers engage with packaged Basmati rice. Through a mindset-forward approach, we aim to educate and empower households, helping them become self-reliant in identifying the quality that best suits their needs.”
Landor’s agency spokesperson added, “This project is a milestone in breaking category norms—blending heritage with innovation. Our data-driven design approach, shaped by direct consumer feedback, is reshaping rice shopping experiences and setting new standards for the industry.”
Beyond branding and technology, KRBL continues to perform strongly on the financial front. The company recently reported improved profit margins, driven by operational efficiencies and sustained global demand. Additionally, KRBL is investing in sustainable sourcing and traceability systems, aligning with the rising expectations of environmentally conscious consumers.
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