SKF India (Industrial) will establish a Factory of the Future in Pune with an investment of Rs 6,530 million (Rs 6,530 mn). The facility is intended to modernise manufacturing and localise production of bearings and related components for domestic and export markets. The company described the project as a step to integrate automation and digital systems aimed at improving productivity and product quality. The investment forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen supply chain resilience and respond to growing customer requirements.

The new plant will incorporate Industry four point zero practices, including advanced automation, data analytics and connected equipment, to streamline production processes and reduce lead times. It is expected to enable flexible manufacturing that can support small batch production and rapid design changes without compromising efficiency. The layout will allow for enhanced testing and assembly capabilities and for tighter quality control at multiple stages of production. Such capabilities are intended to support both original equipment manufacturers and aftermarket customers.

The project is projected to enhance the company's competitiveness in the region by lowering dependence on imports and by enabling closer collaboration with suppliers and customers. The factory is expected to facilitate technology transfer and to foster skills development through training on modern manufacturing systems. Local sourcing of certain components is likely to increase, which may benefit domestic suppliers and logistics partners. The plant is also designed to meet evolving regulatory and sustainability expectations in manufacturing.

Company executives indicated that the investment will be financed through internal resources and that implementation will follow a phased approach to align with demand and capacity planning. The initiative complements previous efforts to upgrade manufacturing capabilities across the firm and to pursue greater operational efficiency. The new Pune facility is positioned as a strategic asset to support long term growth in the industrial segment.