Industree

Industree provides livelihood to rural artisans through market opportunities, producing contemporary products using traditional crafts. A social entrepreneurship based in Bangalore, the business venture focuses on financial, social and environmental bottom lines. Industree works primarily to benefit the artisan and the customers who buy the artisanal product.

Industree is unique because it represents two ends of the spectrum, the artisan and the market. In order to cater to the distinctive demands of both segments it works through a hybrid model, a 'for-profit' component, Industree Crafts Private Limited (ICPL) and a 'non-profit' wing, Industree Crafts Foundation (ICF). The former involves retail, design, sourcing, warehousing and direct artisanal enhancement across its rural village centres, while the latter acts as a conduit for capacity building, skill training and design development.

Gita Ram, with a 30-year voluntary work history in the craft sector and Neelam Chhiber, Industrial Designer and Executive Director Industree, founded the organization in 1986. Industree currently has a turnover of Rs 5 crore ($US 1,187,088). They work with 3000 artisans, sell to over 50 stores in India and export to companies like IKEA, Crate & Barrel and Interface UK.

Industree has received the UNESCO seal of excellence for two years consecutively. They also have a membership in International Fair Trade.

Industree is launching a scaled up multi-brand retail presence in the market. Artisan producer groups will form the backbone of the enterprise. Investment has come from the Future Group, Future Ventures, India's largest retail group. Mr. Raminder Singh Rekhi has been inducted as Chief Executive Officer and shareholder to lead the company.