Sustainable development cannot be achieved by a single enterprise or even by the entire business community in isolation. It is a pervasive philosophy to which every stakeholder in society and participant in the global economy must willingly subscribe… The Tata Group of Companies has always believed strongly in the concept of collaborative growth, and this vision has seen it emerge as one of India's and the world's most respected and successful business conglomerates. The Tata Group has traced a route of growth that spans through six continents and embraces diverse cultures. The total revenue of Tata companies, taken together, was 67.4 billion USD (around Rs319,534 crore) in 2009-10, with 57 per cent of this coming from business outside India. In the face of trying economic challenges in recent times, the Tata Group has steered India’s ascent in the global map through its unwavering focus on sustainable development. Over 395,000 people worldwide are currently employed in the seven business sectors in which the Tata Group Companies operate. It is the largest employer in India in the Private Sector and continues to lead with the same commitment towards social and community responsibilities that it has shown in the past. The Tata Group of Companies has business operations (114 companies and subsidiaries) in seven defined sectors – Materials, Engineering, Information Technology and Communications, Energy, Services, Consumer Products and Chemicals. Tata Steel with its acquisition of Corus has secured a place among the top ten steel manufacturers in the world and it is the Tata Group’s flagship Company. Other Group Companies in the different sectors are – Tata Motors, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Tata
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Sustainable development cannot be achieved by a single enterprise or even by the entire business community in isolation. It is a pervasive philosophy to which every stakeholder in society and participant in the global economy must willingly subscribe…
The Tata Group of Companies has always believed strongly in the concept of collaborative growth, and this vision has seen it emerge as one of India's and the world's most respected and successful business conglomerates. The Tata Group has traced a route of growth that spans through six continents and embraces diverse cultures. The total revenue of Tata companies, taken together, was 67.4 billion USD (around Rs319,534 crore) in 2009-10, with 57 per cent of this coming from business outside India. In the face of trying economic challenges in recent times, the Tata Group has steered India’s ascent in the global map through its unwavering focus on sustainable development. Over 395,000 people worldwide are currently employed in the seven business sectors in which the Tata Group Companies operate. It is the largest employer in India in the Private Sector and continues to lead with the same commitment towards social and community responsibilities that it has shown in the past.
The Tata Group of Companies has business operations (114 companies and subsidiaries) in seven defined sectors – Materials, Engineering, Information Technology and Communications, Energy, Services, Consumer Products and Chemicals. Tata Steel with its acquisition of Corus has secured a place among the top ten steel manufacturers in the world and it is the Tata Group’s flagship Company. Other Group Companies in the different sectors are – Tata Motors, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Tata Communications, Tata Power, Indian Hotels, Tata Global Beverages and Tata Chemicals.
Tata Motors is India’s largest automobile company by revenue and is among the top five commercial vehicle manufacturers in the world. Jaguar and Landrover are now part of Tata Motor’s portfolio.
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is an integrated software solutions provider with delivery centres in more than 18 countries. It ranked fifth overall, and topped the list for IT services, in Bloomberg Businessweek's 12th annual 'Tech 100', a ranking of the world's best performing tech companies.
Tata Power has pioneered hydro-power generation in India and is the largest power generator (production capacity of 2300 MW) in India in the private sector.
Indian Hotels Company (Taj Hotels, resorts and palaces) happens to be the leading chain of hotels in India and one of the largest hospitality groups in Asia. It has a presence in 12 countries in 5 continents.
Tata Global Beverages (formerly Tata Tea), with its major acquisitions like Tetley and Good Earth is at present the second largest global branded tea operation.
When Jamsetji Tata gave shape to his vision of nation building by forming what was to become the Tata Group in 1868, he had envisaged India as an independent strength – politically, economically and socially. In order to become a force that the world has to reckon with, the Tata Group has always ventured into path breaking territory and pioneered developments in industries of national importance.
As a policy, the Tata Group Companies promote and encourage economic, social and educational development in the community, returning wealth to the society they serve. Two-thirds of the equity of Tata Sons is held in philanthropic trusts that take care of endowments towards improvement programmes in these spheres.
Through the years, the Tata Group has been amongst the most prestigious corporate presences in the world governed by its principles of business ethics. Its foray into international business has been recognised by various bodies and institutions. The Tata brand has been ranked as the first Indian brand to be in the top 50 club of global brands as per the Brand Finance (a UK-based
consultancy firm) Global 500 report 2011. The key companies and brands that add the brand value to the Group as per Brand Finance are Tata Steel Group, Tata Motors Group and Tata Consultancy Services. Also, in Business Week Magazine's list of the 25 most innovative companies the Tata name appears 13th and The Reputation Institute, USA has evaluated the Tata Group as the 11th in a global study of the most reputed companies.
In the road ahead, the Tata Group is focusing on integration of new technologies in its operations and breaking new grounds in product development. The Eka supercomputer had been ranked the world’s fourth fastest in 2008 and the launch of the Nano has been a benchmark for the auto industry specifically and the economy in general.
With a holistic approach in all its business operations, a loyal and dedicated workforce and its rooted belief in value creation and corporate citizenship, the Tata Group is always ready to realise its vision and objectives. The challenges of the future will only help to enhance the Group’s performance and transform newer dreams to reality.
To know more, visit: www.tata.com
Vision and Mission
The long journey of Tata Steel has seen the Company re-define its performance parameters in a number of ways to become the global steel industry benchmark for value creation and corporate citizenship. It ensures a total commitment to its ethical business practices and a people oriented vision.
Vision
We aspire to be the global steel industry benchmark for Value Creation and Corporate Citizenship
We make the difference through:
Our people, by fostering team work, nurturing talent, enhancing leadership capability and acting with pace, pride and passion.
Our offer, by becoming the supplier of choice, delivering premium products and services, and creating value for our customers.
Our innovative approach, by developing leading edge solutions in technology, processes and products.
Our conduct, by providing a safe working place, respecting the environment, caring for our communities and demonstrating high ethical standards.
The long journey of Tata Steel has seen the Company re-define its performance parameters in a number of ways to become the global steel industry benchmark for value creation and corporate citizenship. It ensures a total commitment to its ethical business practices and a people oriented vision.
Guided by a powerful vision, Tata Steel strives forward to reach newer and higher milestones, every year.
MissionConsistent with the vision and values of the founder Jamsetji Tata, Tata Steel strives to strengthen India’s industrial base through the effective utilization of staff and materials. The means envisaged to achieve this are high technology and productivity, consistent with modern management practices.
Tata Steel recognizes that while honesty and integrity are the essential ingredients of a strong and stable enterprise, profitability provides the main spark for economic activity.
Overall, the Company seeks to scale the heights of excellence in all that it does in an atmosphere free from fear, and thereby reaffirms its faith in democratic values.
Business Ethics
"We do not claim to be more unselfish, more generous or more philanthropic than others, but we think, we started on sound and straightforward business principles considering the interest of the shareholders, our own health and welfare of our employees... the sure foundation of our prosperity" – J.N. Tata
A strong focus on Value Creation and Corporate Citizenship has helped the Tata Steel Group build an enviable corporate reputation founded in honest and transparent approaches.
The values and principles, which have Governed Tata Steel’s business for a century, have been deployed through the implementation of the Tata Code of Conduct ( TCOC, often referred to as the 'Code' ), which was first formally articulated in 1998. This was intended to serve as a guide to each employee on the values, ethics and business principles expected of him or her in personal and professional conduct. The Management of Business Ethics is effectively instituted today in Tata Steel through its four pillars concept.
Leadership System and Processes Training and Awareness Measurement
In 2008, in line with changing times and the globalisation of the Tata Group, the Code was updated in consultation with group companies around the world. The revised Code of Conduct was adopted by the Tata Steel Group Board in October 2008. It addresses contemporary issues of concern for global business along with the importance of implementing a sustainability protocol.
The Tata Code of Conduct - HighlightsThe TCOC is a testament to Tata Steel’s determination to help its employees in every way to understand their duties and commitments towards shared values and principles. The comprehensive document serves as the ethical road map for Tata employees and Group companies.
National Interest being given foremost importance, The Code also embodies such values as clarity of communication, transparency, respect for others and an ethical approach in conducting
business, all of which contribute towards building team spirit and enhance integrity in the Company’s involvement with all stakeholders.
The TCOC has added significance in the Group’s aspiration to be the global industry benchmark for value creation and corporate citizenship. It highlights the importance of group efforts in improving the quality of life of the people in the communities in which it operates. This includes the understanding that in the process of production and sale of its products and services, the Company will strive for economic, social and environmental sustainability.
In the context of Tata Steel’s increasing global presence the Tata Code of Conduct has been reviewed to accommodate required and appropriate modifications. This has ensured that diverse cultural and business related issues are addressed universally across the Group. The Tata Code of Conduct was launched in Tata Steel (Thailand), NatSteel in July 2007 and in Corus in January 2009.
Click here to view -- Complete Tata Code of Conduct TCOC film
All employees have a clear responsibility to implement the Code. Additionally the Code now extends to contractors and vendors, who must agree to respect it. The systems and processes are revisited and modified constantly to ensure that they are not subjected to unethical practices.
The Communications function of Tata Steel Group has been of supreme importance in connecting and building relationships of trust within the organisation and outside and in reflecting the aspirations and goals for the future. The senior leadership team in the Company is actively engaged in communication on business ethics at various levels and forums. The Company does not ever hesitate to take visible disciplinary actions when necessary and no violation of TCOC, however insignificant, is ever tolerated. The aim is to strengthen employee involvement in a positive and regular manner and enhance the sense of accountability.
Code of Conduct for Non-Executive DirectorsNon-Executive Directors of a company will :
- Always act in the interest of the company and ensure that any other business or personal association which they may have, does not involve any conflict of interest with the operations of the company and his role therein.
- Comply with all applicable laws and regulations of all the relevant regulatory and other authorities as may be applicable to such Directors in their individual capacities.
- Safeguard the confidentiality of all information received by them by virtue of their position.
July is celebrated as ‘Ethics Month’ every year, with numerous programmes and activities. The effectiveness of all initiatives is measured by various internal and external surveys and the result of these studies are proactively incorporated in the existing system.
Over the years, Tata Steel has placed continuous emphasis on improving processes, with a view to consistently increasing efficiencies, enhancing quality and thereby achieving better performance benchmarks in all areas. The various initiatives taken in its operations across the world have gradually evolved to become recognised models of improvement and growth.
Since the formal incorporation of Total Quality Management (TQM) for Business Excellence in the late 1980’s Tata Steel has adopted a number of improvement initiatives popular around the world.
At Tata Steel’s European operations, Continuous Improvement activities are focused on providing Business Units with the ability to drive business through Lean Management, a common strategy deployment process, training of CI coaches and knowledge sharing through operations.
NatSteel maintains a systematic approach towards improving productivity and enhancing quality while reducing cost at the same time. The Singapore operations concentrated on yield improvement, reduction in power consumption and a significant bottom line benefit. The Xiamen operations have also adopted measures to reduce vulnerability caused by price fluctuations.
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A Customer Centric Approach
Being prepared for the Future
The Improvement Philosophy
Tata Steel India Corporate Objective
Performance Improvement Initiatives
ASPIRE
Performance Improvement Initiatives
Performance Improvement Teams
Tata Steel set up the Performance Improvement Committee (PIC) in January 2008 to accelerate performance improvement on a continual basis. Seven (7) PI groups have started functioning under the PIC identifying Key Performance Indicators (KPI) to be improved and improvement projects to be undertaken.
Considerable progress has been made in strengthening the work of the Performance Improvement Teams (PITs), charged with improving manufacturing processes. At the moment, 17 of these teams are operating across the Tata Steel Group and initial estimates indicate the value of PIT-facilitated projects being undertaken in FY 11 to be more than £ 110 million.
Change in Performance Culture
The Performance Improvement journey has resulted in some positive changes in the performance culture.
KPI Comparisons -
KPI comparisons across groups have led to identification of performance gaps within the Company enabling the initiation of improvement projects in the area of concern.
Bottom Line Orientation -
Most projects are being conceptualised with an expected financial benefit to consider.
People Involvement
The People Involvement team meetings have had a positive influence on having more people participate actively in different performance improvement initiatives.
Policies
In adherence to the Tata Code of Conduct, Tata Steel’s policies pertain to active sets of principles, in different areas of operation that help to bring uniformity in processes by clearly defining the Company’s approach.
Affirmative Action Policy
Alcohol and Drugs Policy
HIV / AIDS POLICY
Corporate Social Responsibility & Accountability Policy
Quality Policy
Human Resource Policy
Safety Principles & Occupational Health Policy
Environmental Policy
Research Policy
Affirmative Action Policy
Tata Steel recognize that diversity in the workplace positively impacts business. The company will ensure employment opportunities and provide training to develop the socially disadvantaged.
Tata Steel will volunteer its training resources to the extent possible to improve employability of disadvantaged sections of society. The company will encourages business entrepreneurs from socially disadvantages communities through monitoring and inclusion in supply chain on the basis of equal merit.
Tata Steel will assist in upward mobility of talented youth from marginalized communities by increasing their access to quality higher education.
Tata Steel will report Affirmative Action initiatives in its annual sustainability report.
Alcohol and Drugs Policy
Tata Steel believes that the loyalty and commitment of its employees depend upon the quality of life they are offered at work and at home.
We recognize that indiscriminate use of alcohol and drugs is injurious to the well being of individuals, their families and the community as a whole. We acknowledge that the misuse of these psychoactive substance is a major health and safety hazard. Tata Steel is therefore committed to creating an alcohol drug-free environment at the work place. This would be achieved through the involvement of all employees and the Joint Department Councils in spearheading appropriate initiatives. The initiatives would include:
Raising awareness, through the dissemination of information education, education and training and by promoting healthy life styles among our employees and their families.
Motivating those employees who have an alcohol / drug problem, to seek assistance, while maintaining confidentiality about such cases.
HIV / AIDS POLICY
Tata Steel is committed to contribute to the global effort towards halting and reversing the course of HIV/AIDS.
The Company would take measures to actively disseminate information & education regarding HIV/AIDS within our workplace and surrounding communities, with the objective to reduce its transmission.
The company would ensure a safe working environment, confidentially and non – discrimination of affected employees, if any.
The company would provide appropriate medical management for all affected employees and their families.
Corporate Social Responsibility & Accountability Policy
Tata Steel believes that the primary purpose of a business is to improve the quality of life of people
Tata Steel shall volunteer its resources, to the extent it can reasonably afford, to sustain and improve healthy and prosperous environment and to improve the quality of life of the employees and the communities it serves.
Tata Steel shall conduct its business ever mindful of its social accountability, respecting applicable laws and with regard for human dignity.
Tata Steel shall positively impact and influence its partners in fostering a sense of social commitment for their stakeholders.
Quality Policy
Consistent with the group purpose, Tata Steel constantly strives to improve the quality of life of the communities it serves through excellence in all facets of its activities.
We are committed to create value for all our customers and key stakeholders by continually standardizing, improving and innovating our offerings, systems and processes involving all our employees.
This policy shall form the basis of establishing and reviewing the Business Objectives and Strategies and shall be communicated across the organization. The policy will be reviewed to align with business direction and to comply with all the requirements of TQM Principles.
Human Resource Policy
Tata Steel is an equal opportunity employer.
Tata Steel recognizes that its people are the primary source of its competitiveness.
It will pursue management practices designed to enrich the quality of life of its employees, develop their potential and maximize their productivity.
It will aim at ensuring transparency, fairness and equality in all its dealings with its employees.
Tata Steel shall strive continuously to foster a climate of openness, mutual trust and teamwork.
In the process Tata Steel shall strive to be the employer of choice by attracting the best available talent and ensuring a cosmopolitan workforce.
Safety Principles & Occupational Health Policy
Tata Steel’s safety and occupational responsibilities are driven by our commitment to ensure zero harm to people we work with and society at large and are integral to the way we do business.
Safety Principles
Safety is a line management responsibility. All injuries can be prevented. Felt concern and care for the employee on “24 hours safety” shall be demonstrated by Leaders. Employees shall be trained to work safely. Working safely shall be condition of employment. Every job shall be assessed for the risk involved and shall be carried out as per authorized
procedures/checklist/necessary work permit and using necessary work permit and using necessary personal protective equipment.
We are committed to continual improvement in our S&OH performance.
We shall set objective-targets, develop, implement and maintain management standards and systems, and go beyond compliance of the relevant industry standards, legal and other requirements.
Environmental Policy
Tata Steel’s environmental responsibilities are driven by our commitment to preserve the environment and are integral to the way we do business.
1. We are committed to deal proactively with Climate Change issue by efficient use of natural resources & energy; reducing and preventing pollution; promoting waste avoidance and recycling measures; and product stewardship.
o We shall identify, assess and mange our environmental impact.o We shall regularly monitor, review and report publicly our environmental performance.o Well shall develop & rehabilitate abandoned sites through afforestation and landscaping
and shall protect and preserve the bio-diversity in the areas of our operations.o We shall enhance awareness, skill and competence of our employees and contractors so
as to enable them to demonstrate their involvement, responsibility and accountability for sound environmental performance.
2. We are committed to continual improvement in our environmental performance. o We shall set objectives, targets, develop, implement and maintain management
standards and system, and go beyond compliance of the relevant industry standards legal and other requirements.
3. We will truly succeed when we sustain our environmental achievement and are valued by the communities in which we work.
Research Policy
Tata Steel believes that research provides the foundation for sustained, long-term, stakeholder delight.
Tata Steel shall nurture and encourage innovative research in a creative ambience to ensure that the competitive advantages in its overall business is retained and surpassed. Towards this goal, the Company commits itself to providing all necessary resources and facilities for use by motivated researchers of the highest calibre.
Research in Tata Steel shall be aligned to the technological initiatives necessary to evolve and fulfill the overall business objectives of the Company.
Subsidiaries
Tata Steel's position has been strengthened over the years through meaningful acquisitions of enterprises across the globe. These enterprises have individually emerged as leaders in their respective industry segments leading to judicious investments, therefore facilitating growth.
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Jamshedpur Injection Powder Limited (Jamipol)
Jamshedpur Utility and Services Company Limited (JUSCO)
Lanka Special Steel Limited
Rawmet Ferrous Industries
Sila Eastern Company Limited
Tata Steel KZN
Tata Metaliks Limited
Tata Pigments Limited
Tata Refractories Limited (TRL)
Tata Steel Processing and Distribution Limited (TSPDL)
Tata Sponge Iron Limited (TSIL)
Tayo Rolls Limited
Tinplate Company of India Limited (TCIL)
TRF Limited
The Indian Steel and Wire Products Limited (ISWP)
Joint Ventures
Tata Steel is a global player with a balanced presence in developed European and fast growing Asian markets. The Company has set itself the objective of expanding its capacities and becoming globally competitive in its businesses.
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Dhamra Port Company Ltd.
mjunction services limited
Tata BlueScope Steel Limited
TM International Logistics Limited (TMILL)
Tata NYK
S&T Mining Company Pvt Ltd
Vietnam Steel Project
JV with SODEMI in Ivory Coast
JV with Riversdale Mining Limited
JV with Al Bahja Group
JV with Vale
Management Speak
“When you are inspired by some great purpose, some extraordinary project, all your thoughts break their bonds – your mind transcends limitations, your consciousness expands in every direction, and you find yourself in a new, great, and wonderful world. Dormant forces, faculties and talents become alive and you discover yourself to be a greater person by far than you ever dreamed”.
Chairman’s Statement
Dear Shareholder,
Following two years of the worst global economic downturn in most peoples’ living memory, the world seems to be regaining some economic stability but with some dramatic shifts in concentration of economic strength.
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The growth rates in the economies of the developed world are still extremely moderate, while countries in the developing world have registered high levels of economic growth and some have become new centres of global capacity, demand and control over natural resources.
In the developed world, there are definite signs of a recovery in the United States. Continental Europe is seeing a much more modest level of economic revival with some concerns about its sustainability. In the United Kingdom, a recovery is yet to take place.
By contrast, in the developing world, China, India, Brazil and certain Asian countries are registering very strong and sustainable economic growth with robust domestic markets. In 2025, it is forecast that the BRIC countries will have 42% of the global population, will consume 60% of the global production and will have 70% of the global GDP.
The steel industry has also been impacted by these global shifts. The requirement of steel is growing in Asia, where downstream user industries are experiencing high demand, whereas the markets for steel in the United Kingdom and Continental Europe have remained depressed. Major iron ore and coking coal resources have continued to be controlled by three companies
which continue to opportunistically elevate prices that can never be passed on to the customer in these depressed times. One hopes that better sense prevails and a more responsible perspective is adopted by these mining companies, so as to enable an economic recovery to take place at this crucial time rather than drive the world into another collapse due to the spiraling cost of basic materials.
Through these difficult times, Tata Steel has struggled to adhere to its long-term strategies, both in India and overseas. There has nevertheless been need to re-schedule and re-prioritise investment strategies in consonance with market conditions during this period.
In India, the Company has given top priority to the 2.9 million tonne expansion programme at its Jamshedpur Works and its major greenfield 6 million tonne integrated steel plant in Orissa. Tata Steel Asia has steelmaking and finishing facilities in various Asian countries including India) aggregating 10.5 million tonnes. Equal importance has been given to raw material security through the acquisition of iron ore and coal resources overseas to feed its UK and European plants, while rationalising capacities to make them viable in this period of slack demand.
Some of the decisions have been hard and some of the actions have been painful. Nevertheless, these were necessitated in order for the overall enterprise in the UK and Europe to survive. While Tata Steel’s Indian operations have remained profitable, albeit at a lower level than the previous year, Tata Steel’s European operations remained underutilised and hence unprofitable. However, with the rationalisation, the European operations have become EBITDA positive for the last two quarters. The benefits of the rationalization will of course be more evident in the coming year.
As the economies of several nations return to normalcy, the demand for steel-based goods will undoubtedly grow. This is already starting to be evident in automotive products, building construction and large infrastructure projects. Steel has been and will be, the basic foundation material for national growth and the industry will continue to be an important ingredient in a global economic recovery. The concentration of economic growth rates, manufacturing capacities, market size and control over natural resources will shift markedly towards Asia, Latin America and the CIS countries. China, India and Brazil will become important centres of economic growth in the coming decade.
In the coming years, Tata Steel expects to emerge as a global steel producer with a total annual output of between 40-50 million tonnes, with major manufacturing plants in India, several
countries in Asia, the UK and Continental Europe, supported by integrated mining operations in several geographies. Tata Steel has managed to weather the storm and the Company looks forward to the opportunity of fulfilling its objective of being a viable and innovative international steel producer in the years ahead.
Ratan N. TataChairman
Mumbai, 31st May, 2009
Projects and Operations: India
The Tata Steel Group’s growth and globalisation strategy is driven by its business expansion while maintaining profitability and mitigating risks. The Tata Steel Group over the years has focused on enhancing raw material security and announced major joint ventures in various parts of the globe.
Tata Steel’s Indian operations are one of the most competitive assets in the global steel industry and therefore, capacity expansion in India is one of the key strategies for Tata Steel. The Indian operations draws its greatest strength and its competitive position as one of the lowest cost producers of steel in the world from the quality and yield of its raw material units. The mines have successfully offered raw material security and have partially insulated Tata Steel from the volatility of the global markets. The Company has, therefore, continuously modernised and expanded its raw material facilities right from the 1950s, when it had launched its two million tonne expansion programme.
In FY 2009-10, the steel division of the Indian operations registered an increase of 20% in their saleable steel from 5.37 million tonnes to 6.44 million tonnes. The production from the larger furnaces were maximised with better productivity and lower coke consumption while increased vessel life in the steel melting area enhanced the production level. There were several best ever performances recorded by many units in the Steel Works of the Company:
The Ferro Alloys and Minerals division registered an increase of 22% in their saleable production (1302k tonnes during 2009-10 over 1064k tonnes in 2008-09) while their sale was higher by 36% over FY 2008-09.
Chrome Alloys exports and Manganese Alloys sales also scaled new peaks during 2009-10. The Tubes division grew by 11% and 10% in production and sales respectively over the previous
year, boosted by various improvement initiatives across all its units. The division continues to pioneer the Closed Structural Business, with landmark structures being built using Tata Structura, which crossed the three-lakh tonnes landmark this year.
Sales in the Bearings division registered a growth of 23% while its production increased by 8%.
Therefore the India growth strategy remains a fundamental part of the long-term strategy of the Tata Steel Group.
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Jharkhand
Chhattisgarh
Odisha
West Bengal
Tamil Nadu
Projects and Operations: International
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Australia
Canada
Ivory Coast
Mozambique
The Netherlands
Oman
Singapore
South Africa
Thailand
United Kingdom
Vietnam
Technical Innovations
Tata Steel feels that self-reliance in technology is a pre-requisite for growth, especially in the context of globalisation and expanding operations. The Group's advanced Research and Development centres are competent enough to meet emerging challenges and ensure that the Company always stays ahead of all competition.
Over the years, Tata Steel has placed a continuous emphasis on improving processes, with a view to consistently enhancing efficiencies, improving quality and thereby achieving better performance benchmarks in all areas of operations. The Research Department established by Tata Steel way back in 1935, was the first of its kind in India, and stands as a testimony to the foresight of the early pioneers and the vision of the founder of the Company.
The Group’s research programme is split between programmes funded by the separate business units (which make up the major part of the work done in the European research centres) and work on a number of identified thrust areas that receive corporate funding. The thrust areas also incorporate the projects that were previously a part of the strategic programme of Tata Steel in Europe. Currently, the Tata Steel Group has five research centres with over 1000 people involving themselves in R&D activities. These centers are:
IJmuiden Technology Centre (the Netherlands) : Located in IJmuiden, this centre focuses predominantly on process and product research for strip products and its application in the automotive and packaging sectors. In addition, the Ceramics Research Centre contributes to the availability of high temperature installations by developing “value in use” refractory solutions.
Swinden Technology Centre (United Kingdom): This R&D Centre of Tata Steel in Rotherham focuses primarily on product research and applications research for the transport, building and construction sectors. Process research is undertaken for the mills operations, concentrating largely on environmental research.
Teesside Technology Centre (United Kingdom): The Teesside Technology Centre (TTC) is located at Grangetown, Cleveland and operates as a satellite focusing on process and long product research. This Centre has a significant capability – that of the 8 tonnes heavy pilot plant facility with an arc melting furnace and steel casting capability.
Automotive Engineering Group (United Kingdom) : The Automotive Engineering Group (AEG) was initially built as a technical bridge between Tata Steel and its automotive sector customers. Its key focus is on cost-effective light weighting, to keep steel positioned as the automotive material of choice in the transition to a low carbon economy. It services the automotive, construction, materials handling and defence market sectors.
Jamshedpur R&D Centre (India) : The Jamshedpur R&D centre in India was established in 1937 and is one of the oldest industrial R&D centres in the country. Since its inception, this centre has played a pivotal role in the development of steel products and process routes that have given the Company a competitive advantage in local and global markets. The innovative processes and superior quality of output is reflected in 42 filed and 36 granted patents during the past year along with publication of 56 papers in top international peer-reviewed journals.
Anticipating the need to become self-reliant in technology, Tata Steel has taken several steps that would help consolidate its position as a leader in chosen technologies.
Focus on IPR
Research in Thrust Areas
Major Facilities and Process Improvements
Recent Achievements
Marketing Innovations
Assurance, reliability and superior brand experience in every segment have always been the key focus for Tata Steel's brand building endeavours. In addition, the realigned operating strategy takes into account current realities of the marketplace and enhancement of customer satisfaction and relationships with existing clients.
In recent times, the Tata Steel Group has been concentrating on the geographies that are logistically favourable to its plants in Europe and Asia, in response to current realities of the marketplace. Tata Steel has been working to enhance customer satisfaction and relationships with existing clients. As opposed to competitors who split and diversify, Tata Steel is focusing on positive markets by applying its resources to the core business where they are most needed. In order to spread the customer base and maximise leverage from the economic packages, special initiatives were devoted to Government funded projects and the Railways.
The Singapore operations of NatSteel and the Xiamen operations engaged in efforts to align the price-cost cycle to mitigate risks of price fluctuations. A focus area for Tata Steel European operations have been the continuous enhancement of customer support in the automotive market.
Several new initiatives have been undertaken to improve customer service in every market segment.
Tata Steel had implemented Vehicle Tracking system (VTS) way back in 2002. In line with the Company’s endeavour to improve customer service, approx 1600 Global Positioning System (GPS) mounted vehicles have been deployed by transport partners of material movement across the Country. This is the largest implementation of GPS enabled fleet in the steel industry.
To bring about improvement in delivery reliability, a billboard has been created and uploaded on CSD webpage to track vehicles on-line, again a first in the Indian Steel industry.
Major drive has been taken to reduce service claims through development of desired infrastructure at Hubs/Stock yards and deployment of specialised vehicles.
In order to create service differentiation, an auto compliant hub has been developed at Chennai. Fleet of special vehicles has further been augmented to deliver damage free skin panels.
Standard operating procedures for receipt, storage, handling and delivery of steel materials at all stock points have been implemented.
Tata Steel has created transport parks in Jamshedpur to ease out traffic flow and educate all drivers on safety and health concerns. As a CSR initiative approximately 2000 drivers undergo medical check-up at our facilities every month.
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