strengths
Over the years, DFPCL has built up some unique strengths that have allowed it to grow, through good and bad times.
Operational flexibility
DFPCL has a broad product range and the operational flexibility to optimise its product mix (by switching between products) depending on market conditions and supply constraints. This is further enhanced by their port storage infrastructure, pipelines and manufacturing facilities, which allow them to switch between imports and manufacturing, again to maximise variations in domestic and international prices. These capabilities have provided the company with significant resilience and stability, despite operating in markets that tend to be cyclical.
Assimilation of the best technology
DFPCL has always sought the best technology and boasts several strong international technology partners. Equally important, we have been able to absorb the technology for optimal utilisation and today have some of the best capabilities in the quality production of bulk hydrocarbons and heavy chemicals.
Our products meet international quality standards and have been well received both in domestic and global markets. All our plants have been tested for 100% capacity run.
| Products | Technology |
Ammonia |
Fish International Engrs. (USA) |
Methanol |
Davy McKee (UK) |
Dilute Nitric Acid |
Weatherly Inc (USA) |
Concentrated Nitric Acid |
Plinke (Germany) |
Low Density Ammonium Nitrate |
Stamicarbon (The Netherlands) |
Nitro Phosphate (fertilisers) |
Stamicarbon (The Netherlands) |
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) |
British Petroleum |
In recognition of our efforts, DFPCL has received several awards, including three awards in different categories at the 2000 Annual Fertilisers Association (FAI) seminar held in New Delhi (India).
Strong marketing and distribution network
DFPCL has a strong marketing and distribution network for bulk fertilizers and chemicals. We have a widespread and loyal dealer network, and our presence is very significant in the agri-input market, especially in some specific areas like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
Branding
A multiple set of agricultural products and services (seeds, fertilisers, micronutrients, testing, advice and education for farmers) are marketed under the umbrella brand "MAHADHAN". This has enabled strong brand recognition and loyalty, even for the commodity itesm in the portfolio of products/services. DPCL has strong brands in Ammonium Nitrate viz. Optimex, Optispan and Optiform.
Import logistics
DFPCL has invested resources in building capabilities for trading and handling bulk imports and exports of hazardous items. We have been able to develop import sources and develop a robust logistic management system by leasing the necessary infrastructure - Port storage capacities at Bombay Port Trust and Vishakhapatnam.
Capability in handling hazardous chemicals
DFPCL has capabilities for handling and movement of hazardous, toxic and inflammable chemicals. A measure of its skill and efforts in maintaining a good record on health and safety, is the fact that in 2000-2001, the company received the British Safety Council Award for the third year in a row.
Ability to raise resources
DFPCL has the ability to raise resources from the financial institutions as well as from the markets, thanks to a relatively strong Balance Sheet and a good track record.
Management resilience
The management of DFPCL has tremendous resilience in adverse external conditions, a trait no doubt, gained from the chairman of the company. Its mettle was put to the test in 1993, when a series of disasters (government decontrol of fertilisers, an explosion at the methanol plant) struck the company, which pushed it into the red zone. However, by 1995, through sheer grit and determination, the company was back in the black! And has never looked back!
Real estate infrastructure to grow capacity
There is real estate infrastructure availability at Taloja as well as at Pune, wherein the company can add to the business portfolio with lower investment as compared to green field projects.
Locational advantage
DFPCL is in the heart of the chemicals market, Western India. And close to another major market, South India. Our port facilities at Vishakapatnam also give us further access to markets in the East and South.
