FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX), and the world’s largest express transportation company, is supporting the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in India, bringing its first virtual ‘SME Connect’ series to Pune, Maharashtra. The SME Connect series, now in its fourth edition, is a thought leadership and knowledge sharing platform for SMEs to interact with industry and subject matter experts for solution-oriented discussions that impact their business.
According to a recent survey by Udyog Aadhar[1], Pune emerged as the most preferred destination for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Maharashtra, and accounts for 214,000[2] MSMEs. A significant contributor to this sector is the automotive and automotive ancillary industry; the state of Maharashtra delivers almost 35% of the automobiles output in the country, with Pune being the largest automobile hub in India[3].
India, one of the most promising global automotive markets, was impacted by the pandemic-induced lockdowns and is now showing signs of recovery. The theme for the virtual SME session is ‘Indian Automotive Industry: Shifting Gears from Resilience to Resurgence’. Leading industry experts will share their business insights on the effects of the pandemic in the automotive industry, along with building resilience in the auto supply chain, the impact of disruptive technologies, and priority areas to make India a hub for automobiles.
Speaking at the event, Mohamad Sayegh, Vice President Operations for FedEx Express said, “FedEx plays an important role in connecting SMEs to a world of possibilities through the strength of our global network, tailored solutions, and valued-added services. We
are delighted to launch the fourth edition of the SME Connect series, focused on the growing automotive industry in India.”
The FedEx SME Connect focuses on specially curated topics relevant to the local market, delivered through panel discussions with industry experts to give small businesses guidance and tips to innovate and learn.
“We believe SMEs, which account for one-third of India’s auto components sector[4], contribute significantly to the economy, help provide employment opportunities, and grow India’s export trade. By enabling SMEs to pursue their global ambitions, we believe the insights shared in the FedEx SME Connect series will equip them to enhance their solutions and access global opportunities.” continued Sayegh.
FedEx has a long history of supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses and is committed to helping them reach their full potential. Earlier this year, FedEx enabled more than 700 women-led small businessesacross Maharashtra[5] by providing the essential resources to restart businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
