Technology has shortened people’s patience, and waiting for extended periods seems unnecessary. This is where logistics and express delivery play a crucial role in ensuring seamless movement and delivery of goods. But for the entire logistics chain to be seamless, it significantly relies on strong organization and unwavering customer focus. Only then can a company efficiently transport goods and deliverables across vast distances and diverse markets.
At the heart of the global logistics network lies TCI Express Ltd., a cornerstone of India’s express delivery industry renowned for its organizational prowess and unwavering customer-centric approach. Chander Agarwal (Managing Director) spearheads this intricate operation with a commitment to excellence and innovation. Under his leadership, TCI Express not only ensures efficient product flow across vast distances and diverse markets but also pioneers sustainable practices and transformative growth strategies.
A Transformative Figure in the Logistics Industry
Chander Agarwal, the Managing Director of TCI Express, is a transformative figure in the logistics industry, driven by a fervent commitment to innovation and sustainability. Leading one of India’s fastest-growing express delivery companies, he has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives such as establishing the country’s largest B2B automated sorting center and championing the adoption of renewable energy sources. Chander’s leadership is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, continuously setting new benchmarks that push the industry forward.
Yet, Chander’s aspirations go beyond corporate success. His true passion lies in making a meaningful impact on communities and the economy at large. Through TCI Express’s extensive network, he has worked to streamline supply chains, generate employment, and foster economic growth. This profound sense of purpose fuels his dedication to raising the bar in express logistics, continually inspiring progress, and shaping a brighter future for the industry.
About TCI Express
TCI Express, originally established in 1996 as TCI XPS, began as a key division of Transport Corporation of India, a name synonymous with excellence in logistics. Today, TCI Express stands as an independent, publicly listed company dedicated to revolutionizing express cargo delivery across India. With a sharp focus on time-sensitive distribution and a strategic emphasis on the booming e-commerce sector, TCI Express is uniquely positioned as the only express cargo company in India with its expansive setup. Backed by a team of over 3000 professionals and a vast network of over 50,000 pickup and 60,000 delivery locations, TCI Express ensures unparalleled service and efficiency, reflecting a steadfast commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction in the logistics landscape.
TCI Express’s Vision
L- Loved by customers in Indian and International markets.
E- Express multimodal fastest company.
A- Always ahead of the rest in speed and professionalism.
D- Delight our customers every time.
E- Excellence in service using the latest in technology.
R- Reliable to all our customers and respected by all our stakeholders.
From Passion to Purpose
Chander’s journey into the logistics industry is deeply rooted in his family’s legacy with the TCI Group, a business renowned for its six-decade-long presence in Indian logistics. However, what truly captivated him was the untapped potential he saw in India’s express delivery sector. Despite the significant economic implications, this field needed more organized, efficient, and customer-focused services that could transform the way goods were moved across the country. This realization inspired Chander to venture into express logistics, driven by a vision to bridge this gap and revolutionize the sector.
Establishing TCI Express was more than a business decision; it was a mission to redefine the standards of express delivery in India. Chander’s passion for operational excellence and customer-centric innovation propelled him to tackle the challenges head-on. He recognized the profound impact that a more efficient and focused service could have, not just on the industry but on the broader economy. This drive to harness untapped opportunities and elevate the logistics landscape fueled his commitment to making TCI Express a leader in the field, setting new benchmarks for efficiency, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
Shaping Logistics through Vision and Leadership
Chander’s journey into the logistics industry is a narrative of strategic foresight and transformative leadership. His early career with Transfreight, USA, working with Toyota Motor Vehicles, offered him a front-row seat to the intricacies of lean logistics. This pivotal experience instilled in him a deep appreciation for operational efficiency and set the groundwork for his future innovations. Further enriching his expertise, a stint at Mitsui Logistics expanded his grasp on lean methodologies and underscored the importance of precision and adaptability in logistics.
A defining moment came in 2016 when Chander assumed the role of Managing Director at TCI Express. His leadership was transformative, guiding the company through a pivotal demerger and subsequent listing on major stock exchanges. Under his direction, TCI Express rapidly gained a 10% market share and cemented its place among India’s top 500 companies by market capitalization. His involvement with the Express Industry Council of India and the Entrepreneur Organisation has provided a platform for idea exchange and innovation, further propelling the industry forward. Chander’s achievements have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by his recognition as one of the Most Promising Business Leaders of Asia and his accolade as one of the Influential Leaders of India in 2023.
Professional Milestones
| Financial Performance | Customer & Network Expansion | Awards & Recognitions |
| EBITDA Growth: CAGR of 17% over the last 8 years.Net Profit Growth: CAGR of 20% over the last 8 years.Valuation: ₹4,000+ crore.Market Share: 10% in express logistics. | Customer Base Growth: From 1.6 lakh to 2.25 lakh.Branches: Expanded to over 970+ nationwide.Pin Codes Covered: Over 29,000.Global Reach: Services extended to 195+ countries.– Delivery Locations: Surpassed 60,000. | Iconic Brand of India 2023.CII SCALE and Sustainable Organisation 2023.LEED Gold Certification: For sustainability efforts. |
Under Chander’s visionary leadership, TCI Express has achieved several transformative milestones that have reshaped the express logistics landscape. A major breakthrough came in 2016 with the successful demerger from the TCI Group, positioning TCI Express as India’s first asset-light express delivery company. This strategic move set the stage for remarkable growth, with the company consistently delivering enhanced margins and profitability.
Innovations such as the Pharma Cold Chain Express and Rail Express have fueled revenue growth, while the automation of the Gurugram and Pune sorting centers has boosted operational efficiency by 40%. Realizing the need of the hour, Chander emphasizes leveraging digitalization and AI to streamline processes and adopt sustainability initiatives like CNG and electric vehicles. Every day his visionary leadership continues to drive TCI Express towards pioneering advancements and setting industry benchmarks, ensuring sustainable growth and customer satisfaction.
Navigating Challenges
Business is a journey fraught with challenges, and Chander has navigated them firsthand since taking on the role of Managing Director in 2016. One of the most significant hurdles was overseeing TCI Express’s demerger from the TCI Group—a complex process requiring meticulous planning and coordination. Despite emotional complexities, his collaborative approach ensured a seamless transition, establishing TCI Express as an independent leader in express logistics.
The implementation of GST presented another hurdle, demanding swift adaptation to new regulatory frameworks. Leveraging his experience, Chander fostered innovation and assembled a dynamic team to navigate these changes effectively. By prioritizing customer-centric solutions and operational efficiency, TCI Express not only overcame these challenges but also thrived as India’s top B2B express service provider.
However, calamities and pandemics are beyond preparation. They catch us off guard and require extraordinary efforts to navigate, ensuring survival and business continuity. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Chander’s proactive strategies and stringent safety measures ensured uninterrupted operations, highlighting his adept leadership in overcoming adversity and sustaining growth for TCI Express.
Motivation behind Leadership
Chander’s motivation stems from his drive to redefine logistics standards through customer-centricity and technological leadership. Navigating challenges strengthens his determination to excel, whether spearheading the demerger or achieving milestones like India’s largest automated sorting center. Yet, his ultimate inspiration lies in the positive impact TCI Express makes within communities through its services. This holistic vision of creating enduring value fuels his passion for leading TCI Express to unprecedented heights. Embracing his family legacy as a responsibility and an opportunity, Chander is driven to push boundaries and shape the future of the logistics industry.
Guiding Principles for Personal and Professional Integrity
Chander’s leadership is anchored in a set of core values that blend professional excellence with personal integrity. Professionally, he champions a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous growth within TCI Express. Central to his approach is transparency and ethical conduct, foundational to building trust among all stakeholders.
Pillars of Leadership
| Innovation | Strategic Growth | Future-Oriented Vision |
| Driving customer-centric innovation.- Fostering an inclusive culture. | Implementing asset-light strategy.Achieving global expansion.- Notable financial achievements. | Emphasizing growth and sustainability.- Leading in sustainability initiatives and regulatory shaping. |
On a personal level, Chander embodies empathy, humility, and resilience, which shape his interactions and decision-making. Leading by example, he inspires his team through dedication, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. His commitment to societal contribution underscores his belief in creating a positive impact beyond business realms. These values collectively reinforce his unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional customer experiences. By prioritizing customer needs, leveraging technology, and fostering a customer-centric culture, Chander ensures that TCI Express remains at the forefront of industry innovation and success.
Guiding Lights
Chander has drawn enduring inspiration from his late grandfather, Shri Prabhu Dayal Agarwal (PD ji), whose visionary leadership founded the TCI Group in 1958 with a single truck in Kolkata under the ethos of “One Man, One Truck, One Office.” PD Ji’s profound belief, “Organizations are built by people. People are built by opportunities. Only a true leader provides those opportunities,” continues to shape Chander’s leadership philosophy.
His principles of resilience, strategic thinking, and dedication remain pivotal in guiding Chander’s approach at TCI Express, empowering him to navigate challenges and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Beyond PD ji, Chander has been inspired by leaders in the logistics and business sectors who exemplify resilience and visionary thinking. Their ability to seize opportunities and overcome challenges has influenced his entrepreneurial perspective. These insights reinforce Chander’s dedication to fostering innovation, driving sustainable growth, and delivering exceptional value, echoing PD Ji’s legacy of disciplined business strategies and visionary leadership.
Beyond the Boardroom
As an entrepreneur, Chander prioritizes striking a balance between his professional commitments and personal well-being. Each day begins with invigorating exercise and meditation, practices that cultivate mental clarity and resilience essential for his leadership role. He maintains focus throughout the day with proper nutrition, ensuring his body and mind are fueled for the challenges ahead.
Conscious breaks scheduled during the day allow Chander to recharge and reconnect with loved ones, even if briefly, which rejuvenates him and enhances his productivity. He firmly upholds weekly family time as non-negotiable, completely unplugging to be fully present in those moments. This dedication to personal rituals and family underscores Chander’s holistic approach to leadership and life.
Translating Learnings from the Past into Advice for Future Leaders
Reflecting on his journey, Chander would advise his younger self to embrace adaptability and resilience early on. In the dynamic logistics landscape, agility and perseverance are crucial. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a growth mindset, learning from setbacks, and seizing new opportunities boldly. Clear communication of vision is also vital for aligning and motivating teams. By cultivating adaptability, Chander believes one can confidently navigate uncertainties, unlock potential, and achieve enduring success.
For aspiring entrepreneurs and future leaders, Chander urges a focus on societal benefit through innovation and understanding customer needs. Embrace challenges as growth opportunities, maintain integrity amid market shifts, and prioritize continuous learning and sustainable technology. Foster resilient teams with shared values, build strong stakeholder relationships, and embody humility, courage, and a commitment to meaningful value creation. Chander believes this mindset empowers leaders to succeed and leave a positive legacy.
