‘DBL is committed to excellence’

Country’s ceramic industry has been growing steadily against the backdrop of rapid urbanisation and modern lifestyle changes, among others. Amid such transformation, the DBL Group has emerged as a big name in the country’s ceramic industry. Mr. M. A. Jabbar, managing director of DBL Group, talking to The Financial Express recently, highlighted the current state of the industry and his company’s performance. Excerpts follow:

Question (Q): Could you please briefly introduce your company and share its vision?

Answer (A): DBL Group started its journey over three decades ago with a belief that responsible business can drive lasting impact. From textiles and apparel to ceramics, pharmaceuticals and ICT, our every venture reflects our commitment to innovation, sustainability and integrity. Our broader vision remains simple which is to build businesses that create value for people while protecting the planet, proving that growth and conscience can go hand in hand.

Q: Could you please give us an overview of the ceramics industry in Bangladesh today and your share in the overall market?

A: The ceramics industry in Bangladesh is growing steadily, driven by rapid urbanization, infrastructural development and evolving lifestyle preferences. At the same time, the industry has become far more sophisticated by adopting advanced machinery, automation and sustainable production systems that align with international standards. With several major players, ceramic industry has become increasingly competitive and dynamic. DBL Ceramics has secured a strong position in the market through its wide product portfolio, strong distribution network and consistent superior quality. We continue to expand our footprint as demand for premium tiles grows nationwide.

Q: How do you differentiate your brand from others in the competitive ceramics market of Bangladesh?

A: What truly sets DBL Ceramics apart is our commitment to excellence. We invest in advanced technology, innovative designs and high-quality raw materials to ensure superior finishes and durability. Our products reflect a blend of aesthetics and functionality. Alongside product innovation, our focus on customer service, sustainability and brand integrity allows us to maintain a distinctive position in the market.

Q: How much is the current demand for ceramics in the country, and what growth potential do you foresee over the next five years?

A: Demand for ceramics in Bangladesh continues to grow rapidly, supported by booming construction and housing sectors. Residential, commercial and public infrastructure projects are driving the market. Over the next five years, we expect this demand to increase at an annual rate of 7–10%. With rising consumer expectations and modernization, the market holds strong growth potential for innovative and sustainable products.

Q: Do you have any plans for expansion or modernization?

A: Yes, absolutely. DBL Ceramics is continuously investing in modernizing its facilities and expanding production capacity. We’re adopting state-of-the-art technologies, introducing new product lines, and optimizing processes to ensure operational excellence. As part of our expansion, we have launched “Stiles”, a new range of stylish and versatile tiles designed to meet modern interior trends. Alongside Stiles, our product portfolio includes glazed wall tiles, polished floor tiles, textured tiles, wood look tiles and marble-effect tiles. These initiatives allow us to cater to growing demand, offer more design options and strengthen our presence both domestically and internationally.

Q: How is your company adopting technology and innovation in ceramics production?

A: Innovation is at the heart of everything we do. DBL Ceramics leverages digital printing, automation and advanced quality control systems to deliver high-precision, beautifully designed products. Our R&D team continuously works on creating new textures, finishes and patterns to meet evolving design trends. We see technology not just as a tool for efficiency but as a way to inspire creativity.

Q: Sustainability is becoming increasingly important. What initiatives has your company taken regarding energy efficiency, emissions reduction, or green ceramics production?

A: Sustainability is a core part of our strategy. We have implemented energy-efficient kilns, optimized manufacturing processes to reduce emissions and focused on waste minimization and responsible sourcing of raw materials. Many of our textile units are LEED-certified green factories, with renewable energy systems and zero-liquid discharge water recycling. At DBL Ceramics, this commitment is deeply ingrained. We became the first in Bangladesh’s ceramics industry to achieve ISO 50001 certification for energy management and continue to maintain it through yearly audits. Our factory operates on 100% recycled process water and through cogeneration, we recover kiln exhaust heat to save millions of cubic meters of gas annually. Our recently launched TileChalk project transforms residue clay into eco-friendly chalk and broken tiles into slates for underprivileged schools, with 10,000 packs already distributed across 1,000 schools. We’ve also developed small mosaic tiles from production waste, turning what was once discarded into something beautiful and functional.

For us, sustainability is deeply personal. It’s about how we live, how we produce, and what legacy we leave behind. At DBL, we don’t just want to build better businesses, we want to build a better planet.

Q: Does the ceramics manufacturing sector face any challenges in logistics and raw material sourcing? If yes, how are you addressing them?

A: Like many industries, the ceramics sector faces challenges such as fluctuating raw material costs, global supply chain disruptions and transportation complexities. At DBL Ceramics, we address these issues by maintaining strong relationships with suppliers, building efficient logistics frameworks and ensuring adequate inventory levels. Proactive planning helps us maintain smooth operations and reliable product availability.

Q: What are the biggest challenges the ceramics industry in Bangladesh is facing?

A: Some of the biggest challenges include volatility in raw material prices, high energy costs, technological upgrading needs and environmental compliance requirements. As the industry grows, maintaining competitive pricing while ensuring quality and sustainability becomes more complex. However, we see these challenges as opportunities to innovate and strengthen the sector.

Q: Where do you see your company and the ceramics industry as a whole, in the next decade in terms of innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness?

A: We see a future where Bangladeshi ceramics stand proudly on the global stage. Over the next decade, we aim to lead in innovation, sustainability and design excellence. DBL Ceramics will continue to invest in R&D, eco-friendly technologies and modern facilities to strengthen our international competitiveness. The industry as a whole is on track to become a key contributor to the country’s export earnings.