Sandeep Prabhu with a diploma in Auto Mobile Engineering from Mumbai  came over to Goa at the fag end of 1989. After arranging some finance, he started his own electrical outlet in the name of Om Electricals in Mapusa. Here is where he gained greater and in depth knowledge of the conduit pipes. Using the electrical conduits himself on projects gave him first hand information of the various parameters and requirements of a plastic conduit.

The supply of pipes was a big issue in those days and was a monopoly of a few manufacturers based in other states. The supply of pipes were rationed, causing huge disparity amongst the retailers who often lost to stiff competition. Ordering the pipes was required to be unnecessarily in bulk quantity, all in advance payments, often through banks, a lot of paperwork, all this was a frustrating time for the retailers. 

There was a need for a local manufacturer who would understand the plight of the dealers in Goa and ensure them of a steady supply, keeping high standards in quality.

Ashish Duble had just finished his MBA in 1992 and was employed in TATA press Yellow pages, as Sales Executive. Soon he took over the mantle of heading a division of the TATA Press called TATA Press’s Database services, a direct marketing arm.

The idea was put forward by Sandeep to start business in Goa, a hunger to develop a brand coupled with an opportunity for a demand for pipes gave rise to an idea to manufacture and supply pipes in Goa.

The plan was to supply quality pipes at the doorstep of the retailer, with no condition to  stock  pipes in excess, no paperwork, and orders delivered at a phone call away. 

A suitable plot with ready shed was in Tuem was procured through a loan from MSFC. 

The operations commenced in May 1995. 

Initial trial runs were taken with no success. After a year of struggle and apprehensions the product was finally out. The pipes went through rigorous test runs. Retailers from all across Goa were allowed to test and use the pipes. This was a success.  

Branding the pipe was necessary, it was decided to name the pipe based on the characteristic of the pipe, a durable and a flexible pipe hence the name Duraflex. The brand has been trademarked.

Another feature that puts us apart from others is the fact the guarantee of a full 100 meter pipe. Each pipe has a meter marking assuring the customer of the right weight and length.

Pipes were gunny wrapped earlier, it was later decided to use plastic printed with the logo for easy identification and looks. The red logo printed on a white surface background is used as packing. This combination has given us a unique identity. The brand has been identified by this color scheme.

 Why would any retailer stock our product? It was found that the retailers had many apprehensions as a local manufacturer. Each and every dealer was visited , a sample of the pipe given, features of the pipes explained, assurance given on the issue of regular supply and honoring the commitments as promised.

We did get rejections, it did take time for some to accept us, in the end they did believe us and thus Duraflex pipes became their first preferred choice. 

25 years later Duraflex pipes still dominates the market. We have evolved through constant feedback and suggestions from customers. 

With our standards set high we will keep expanding new horizons!!!

In our commitments to achieve higher standards in the manufacture of pipes we have expanded in the manufacture and supply of telecom ducts and other irrigation pipes.

Profiles such as Lawn Edges have been manufactured for exports.