Zeiss Launches Global Capability Centre in Bengaluru, Plans Workforce Expansion

In a significant move for the Indian technology landscape, German optical technology firm Carl Zeiss AG has inaugurated its first global capability centre (GCC) in Bengaluru. This centre marks a pivotal step in the company's strategy to enhance its operations in India, a country that has increasingly become a hub for global companies seeking to tap into local talent and resources. With plans to double its workforce to 5,000 employees over the next three years, Zeiss is set to make a substantial impact on the local job market.

The newly established centre will focus on various critical functions, including cloud computing, cybersecurity, and network operations. Additionally, it will play a vital role in developing software services for Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, the company's medical technology subsidiary. This expansion reflects a broader trend in India, where GCCs have evolved from mere outsourcing hubs to integral parts of global companies, supporting a wide range of functions such as daily operations, finance, and research and development.

As part of its ambitious growth strategy, Zeiss is also planning to hire for its fifth manufacturing facility in India, which is currently under construction in Bengaluru. This facility represents a significant investment of 30 billion rupees (approximately $355.67 million) and is expected to commence operations in 2025. Dhaval Radia, the chief financial officer of Zeiss India, emphasized the importance of Bengaluru as a prime hub for talent and collaboration, stating, "Bengaluru is a prime hub due to availability of skills, collaborations and also ecosystem that is very important to grow. The new plant (in Bengaluru) will also be the largest investment Zeiss Group has ever done outside of Germany."

The growth of Zeiss in India is not just about numbers; it reflects the increasing significance of the Indian market in the global technology landscape. The India unit is projected to achieve revenues of 22 billion rupees for the current fiscal year ending September 2025, marking a 19 percent increase year-on-year. This growth is indicative of the robust demand for technology solutions in the region.

Furthermore, the state of Karnataka, where Bengaluru is located, is actively promoting the growth of GCCs. In September, the state released a draft policy aimed at doubling the number of GCCs to 1,000 and creating 350,000 new jobs by 2029. This initiative aligns with the anticipated growth of the Indian GCC market, which is expected to reach between $99 billion and $105 billion by fiscal year 2030, up from $64.6 billion in 2024, according to a report by IT industry body Nasscom and consulting firm Zinnov.

The establishment of Zeiss's global capability centre in Bengaluru is a testament to the evolving landscape of technology in India. As companies like Zeiss invest in local talent and infrastructure, they not only contribute to the economy but also foster innovation and growth in the region. This development is a clear indication that India is not just a destination for outsourcing but is becoming a vital player in the global technology arena, paving the way for future advancements and opportunities.