History

Balmer Lawrie applied for petroleum and other finds rights in Assam but was not granted the concession.

Assam Railways & Trading secured extensive concessions and succeeded in oil exploration in Digboi, near Balmer Lawrie's applied area.

Balmer Lawrie maintained its interest in oil through the Assam Oil Syndicate, which was later taken over by Assam Oil.

Balmer Lawrie attempted another oil venture in Re-lai Sang, North Assam, but it did not materialize.

Balmer Lawrie imported and distributed lubricating oils, later expanding to blended oils, including motor oils from Alexander Duckhams in 1933.

Began manufacturing grease at Peelkhana, Howrah, along with 'Balarene' (disinfectant) and 'Killem' (insecticide), targeting tea gardens.

Expanded production in Bombay; repackaged grease for Burmah Shell.

Faced challenges with Grease No. 1 production, but management decided to continue despite setbacks.

Attempted to gain expertise from UK companies but had to develop skills internally. Mr. Paul Gonsalves, a key figure, joined in 1954, later known as the 'Father' of the Indian grease industry.

Entered a pivotal agreement with Burmah Shell and Caltex to process greases in return for transferring its lubricating oils business.

Emerged as India's largest grease producer, supplying to Castrol, Gulf Oil, Shell, and Caltex, in addition to its own formulations.

Nationalization of major oil companies led to a shift, with Balmer Lawrie focusing on direct sales and niche markets.

Established the Applications Research Laboratory to develop specialities and high-performance products.

Applications Research Laboratory officially set up in Kolkata.

Shifted focus to high-performance and specialty products, especially synthetic, eco-friendly, and food-grade lubricants.

Opened a new grease plant in Madras to meet growing demands and logistical needs.