Mecca Rafeeque Ahmed was born in 1940 in a family with a strong business background. His father, Haji M. Abdul Majid Sahib, founded the Farida Group in 1957, primarily focusing on leather exports. Rafeeque Ahmed took the reins of the family business in 1964, at the age of 24, after completing his education.
Farida Group: Growth and Expansion
Under Rafeeque Ahmed’s leadership, the Farida Group saw substantial growth and diversification. The group started with exporting tanned leather to the UK and gradually expanded into manufacturing finished leather products. Today, Farida Group is one of India’s largest footwear manufacturers and exporters, comprising several companies such as Farida Classic Shoes, Farida Shoes Private Limited, and India Shoes Exports Private Limited.
Farida Group’s first full-fledged shoe factory, Farida Classic Shoes Private Limited, started operations in 1981 with a capacity of producing 1,000 pairs of shoes per day. It has grown significantly, now delivering 6,000 pairs daily and employing around 1,500 workers. Another notable entity, Farida Shoes Private Limited, established in 1976, is one of South India’s largest footwear factories, with a capacity of 14,000 pairs per day.
Contributions and Innovations
Rafeeque Ahmed has been instrumental in modernizing the Indian leather industry. He emphasized the importance of skilling workers across all levels, not just at the base but also mid-management and supervisors. He believes that improving skills and efficiency at every level is crucial for competing with international players like China and Vietnam.
He has also advocated for capacity building and professional planning to enhance productivity and competitiveness. Under his guidance, the Farida Group adopted advanced technologies and practices, such as ProCAM, ShoeMaster, and CAD tools, to stay ahead in design and manufacturing.
Recognition and Awards
Rafeeque Ahmed’s contributions to the leather industry have been widely recognized. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2011, one of India’s highest civilian honors, for his significant impact on trade and industry. He has also been honored with a doctorate by Anna University for his contributions to the field of leather technology and management.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
Beyond business, Rafeeque Ahmed is known for his philanthropic efforts. He has been involved in various community service activities, including education and healthcare initiatives. His leadership extends to various industry associations, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping policies and strategies for the leather sector.
Mecca Rafeeque Ahmed’s journey from taking over a family business to transforming it into a global footwear giant is a testament to his visionary leadership and commitment to excellence. His contributions have not only advanced the Farida Group but have also set benchmarks in the Indian leather industry, making him a respected figure in business and beyond.
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