German optics giant Carl Zeiss AG has signaled a major commitment to India by opening its first global capability center (GCC) in Bengaluru and announcing plans to double its local workforce to 5,000 within three years. This move signifies India's growing importance as a strategic hub for global corporations, transcending its traditional role as an outsourcing destination, according to Reuters and Heis Online.
Growing tech capabilities
The new GCC in Bengaluru will focus on critical functions like cloud computing, cybersecurity, network operations, and software development for Zeiss' medical technology division. The center represents a deeper integration of the Indian team into the company's global operations.
Manufacturing expansion
Beyond the GCC, Zeiss is further solidifying its Indian presence with a new manufacturing plant slated to open in Bengaluru in 2025. This facility, the company's largest investment outside Germany, highlights India's growing capabilities in advanced manufacturing. The India unit, encompassing research and development and sales, is projected to generate a revenue of INR22 billion(approx. US$264 million) by September 2025, reflecting a robust 19% increase.
Workforce development
The workforce expansion will cater to both the new GCC and the upcoming manufacturing plant. Zeiss is looking to leverage India's skilled talent pool for various roles, including technical positions and those supporting its expanding manufacturing footprint.
"The availability of skilled professionals, strong collaboration opportunities, and a supportive ecosystem make Bengaluru an ideal location for our expansion," said Dhaval Radia, Chief Financial Officer of Zeiss India. He added that the new Bengaluru plant will be the company's biggest investment outside of Germany.
Strategic market growth
This development aligns with the broader trend of India's GCC sector evolving beyond basic outsourcing. GCCs in the country are increasingly becoming strategic outposts for global companies, supporting core functions like daily operations, finance, R&D, and more. The state of Karnataka, which houses Bengaluru, aims to capitalize on this trend by doubling the number of GCCs within its borders to 1,000 by 2029, creating 350,000 new jobs. Industry estimates suggest that the Indian GCC market will experience significant growth, reaching a size of US$99 billion to US$105 billion by 2030, compared to US$64.6 billion in 2024.
Social impact initiatives
Zeiss' commitment to India extends beyond commercial interests. The company, in collaboration with the Karnataka government, has launched the Aloka Vision Program to provide affordable eye care services to 100,000 people in rural areas over the next three years. This initiative demonstrates Zeiss' desire to contribute positively to India's social fabric.
