Starting a manufacturing business is a strategic move that has long-term advantages. Unlike trading or service sectors, manufacturing creates tangible assets, offers employment opportunities, and strengthens the economy. In 2019, with the “Make in India” initiative and government-backed MSME schemes gaining momentum, entrepreneurs are presented with numerous opportunities. If you’re planning to enter the industry, choosing the right product and aligning it with market trends is crucial. Here are the 10 Profitable Manufacturing Businesses that stood out in 2019 for their low investment, high returns, and consistent demand.
Top 10 Profitable Manufacturing Businesses to Start in 2019
1. Candle Making Business
The candle manufacturing industry saw a huge demand in 2019, not only for traditional religious or festive purposes but also for decorative and aromatic uses. With minimal investment in molds, wax, scents, and dyes, this business can be started even from home. It offers high-profit margins and flexibility in production size. Among the 10 profitable manufacturing businesses, candle making holds a unique place due to its low entry barrier and creative potential.
2. Paper Bag Manufacturing
With the global shift towards sustainability and the ban on plastic bags in many regions, paper bag manufacturing turned into a hot venture in 2019. These bags are used by retail stores, restaurants, and shopping chains. With the increasing awareness of eco-friendly alternatives, starting this business requires basic machines and raw materials like kraft paper, glue, and printing ink.
3. Disposable Paper Plate Manufacturing
This is another eco-friendly business that made it into the list of 10 profitable manufacturing businesses. Used in food joints, parties, and catering services, disposable plates and bowls have mass demand. The machinery is semi-automatic or automatic and can churn out thousands of units per day. The government also supported biodegradable product businesses, giving more momentum to this field.
4. Agarbatti (Incense Stick) Manufacturing
India is a leading producer and consumer of incense sticks. It is used in homes, temples, and religious functions regularly. The raw materials such as bamboo sticks, charcoal powder, and essential oils are easily available. With growing exports and demand in the domestic market, this small-scale business yields good profits and is easy to set up.
5. Detergent Powder & Cake Manufacturing
The household cleaning segment has seen constant growth. Detergents are daily-use products in every home. Whether you start a small unit or a medium-scale factory, detergent manufacturing is a profitable venture. The demand never dips, and the formula can be customized to suit different market needs. In the scope of 10 profitable manufacturing businesses, this is an evergreen choice.
6. PVC Pipe Manufacturing
PVC pipes are essential in the construction, agriculture, and plumbing sectors. With the booming infrastructure development in 2019, PVC pipe manufacturing saw a steady demand. The setup requires extrusion machines and raw materials like PVC resin. Although it involves more capital, the returns and industrial demand are promising. The consistent construction activity assures sustained growth for this venture.
7. Organic & Herbal Cosmetic Manufacturing
This industry saw a revolution in 2019 with consumers shifting toward chemical-free skincare. Products like herbal shampoos, soaps, creams, and oils became mainstream. Setting up a small-scale cosmetic unit doesn’t require massive machinery and can begin with basic mixing, packaging, and labeling equipment. This business is especially suitable for entrepreneurs looking to tap into the wellness and beauty niche.
8. Packaging Box Manufacturing
With the rise of e-commerce and increased retail activity, the packaging industry, especially corrugated box manufacturing, experienced massive growth. Every seller needs safe and customized packaging. The machines involved are box-making, printing, and stitching units. With the right client base, this business can scale quickly. As a part of the 10 profitable manufacturing businesses, it represents both B2B and retail potential.
9. LED Light Manufacturing
Energy efficiency became a prime concern in households, commercial spaces, and industries in 2019. LED lighting offered an effective solution with long lifespan and power savings. Although this business involves technical knowledge and precise assembling, the demand curve continues to rise. Government support through subsidies for energy-efficient products added further fuel to this sector.
10. Flour Mill (Atta Chakki)
Basic food processing, especially wheat flour milling, is a stable and scalable business. With the rise in demand for freshly ground and packaged flour, many small-scale units emerged in 2019. This venture requires grinding machines, packaging units, and a small storage area. The margins are decent, and it allows expansion into other grains or mixes.
Why 2019 Was Ideal for Starting These Businesses
The year 2019 provided a solid backdrop for aspiring manufacturers. With schemes like Startup India, MUDRA loans, and Udyog Aadhaar registration, small and micro manufacturing businesses got unprecedented support. This made many of the 10 profitable manufacturing businesses easily accessible, even for first-time entrepreneurs. Moreover, digital platforms enabled easy marketing, client acquisition, and access to suppliers and logistics.
Tips for Starting a Profitable Manufacturing Business
If you’re inspired by these ideas, here are some tips to enhance your chances of success:
- Market Research: Understand your local and regional demand. For example, starting a flour mill in an urban apartment area may not yield as much return as it would in a semi-rural or peri-urban locality.
- Understand Licensing: Ensure your unit has pollution control approvals (if needed), FSSAI registration for food businesses, and GST for legal compliance.
- Start Small and Scale Up: Begin with a small investment, especially if you’re new. Test the market and then expand based on actual demand.
- Utilize Digital Marketing: Promote your product on B2B platforms like IndiaMART, TradeIndia, and social media. It helps you get orders early on.
- Train Your Staff: If your business involves technical steps (like LED manufacturing or detergent formulation), invest in skill development to avoid quality issues.
Final Thoughts
Starting a manufacturing unit is a rewarding journey when approached with careful planning. The 10 profitable manufacturing businesses listed above are proof that innovation, demand, and low investment can co-exist. These ventures are not only scalable but also have the potential to turn into export-oriented units. If you missed the opportunity in 2019, many of these industries are still thriving and relevant today.
Whether you’re planning to start small or dream of building a brand, the key is to begin — research the market, choose the right business, and take the first step with confidence.
Visit the page Select and Choose the Right Business Startup for You for sorting out the questions arising in your mind before starting any business and know which start-up you can plan. We, at NPCS, endeavor to make business selection a simple and convenient step for any entrepreneur/startup. Our expert team, by capitalizing on its dexterity and decade’s long experience in the field, has created a list of profitable ventures for entrepreneurs who wish to diversify or venture. The list so mentioned is updated regularly to give you a regular dose of new emerging opportunities.
