Thomas Falz, Corporate Vice-President, Industrials (AMII), Henkel

Henkel is a leading supplier of materials for the telecom and data centre industry. It provides thermal interface materials, adhesives and sealants to improve the reliability and performance of network infrastructure devices. In an interaction with tele.net, Thomas Falz, Corporate Vice-President, Industrials (AMII), Henkel, shared his views on the company’s focus areas in India, the key growth drivers and future plans…

What key trends are shaping connectivity, networks, and next-gen data and telecom infrastructure?

The global telecom and datacom industry is undergoing a rapid transformation, fuelled by technological breakthroughs, increasing bandwidth demand, internet of things proliferation, and the rise of edge computing. Connectivity is increasingly defined by ultra-high speeds, minimal latency, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven automation and seamless integration across terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks.

Several megatrends are driving the next generation of networks and infrastructure. The accelerated roll-out of 5G, supported by densified small cell deployments and advanced antenna systems, is rapidly expanding connectivity.

At the same time, the growing adoption of AI-powered solutions is optimising network management, predictive maintenance and service delivery. Emerging quantum communication technologies are also paving the way for ultra-secure, next-generation communication networks, while maintaining a strong focus on achieving self-reliance in telecom infrastructure.

What are Henkel’s key focus areas in India? Who are your key clients?

Our key focus in India is on high-performance thermal interface materials and electronic adhesives that enhance the reliability and efficiency of telecom and data centre infrastructure. Backed by our innovations, we are equipped to meet the rising demands for sustainability and energy efficiency. Globally, we collaborate with leading companies to address key needs across design, manufacturing and maintenance.

In India, our primary markets include 5G and data centre equipment, where effective heat management is critical to performance and lifespan. We deliver end-to-end solutions encompassing design, implementation and maintenance, positioning ourselves as a reliable partner for telecom and datacom clients across India.

A key pillar of this strategy is “Make in India”, which enables local manufacturing, streamlines supply chains, ensures material availability and supports more sustainable logistics. Sustainability also drives Henkel’s broader goals, and we align with our customers in this commitment. Our technology portfolio supports environmental priorities and helps achieve shared sustainability goals.

Our solutions are supported by superior service, underpinned by strategic investments in engineering and laboratory resources to enable real-time assistance and prompt resolution of manufacturing challenges.

What were the key business highlights of 2024-25 for your Indian business? What are the priorities for 2025-26?

The key business highlights of 2024-25 include:

  • Henkel strengthening its focus on India’s data and telecom market by leveraging global expertise in advanced materials and digital innovation. As the first to manufacture thermal gels in India under the production-linked incentive scheme, we supported telecom original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) with localised, high-performance solutions.
  • Our customer experience centre in Pune being equipped with advanced testing and demonstration capabilities, which enable customers to select globally proven materials tailored to their specific applications.

In 2025–26, Henkel will prioritise thermal management solutions, advanced adhesive technologies, and high-performance electronic materials for India’s data and telecom sector. These offerings will continue to empower telecom OEMs and leading electronics manufacturers.

What opportunities do you see in the Indian market in the coming years? How are you looking to leverage these?

The Indian telecom and datacom sector is poised for significant growth in the coming years, driven by key trends and supportive government initiatives.

With the rapid roll-out of 5G technology, including fixed wireless access and broader device ecosystem expansion, we anticipate a surge in broadband adoption over the next one to two years. This, coupled with the expansion of data centres, increased cloud adoption and the rise of satellite communications, will generate strong demand for advanced infrastructure and materials.

Government programmes such as Digital India and Make in India are also playing a pivotal role in fostering innovation, attracting investment and building a robust digital ecosystem.

At Henkel, we recognise this as a tremendous opportunity. We are actively strengthening our local capabilities in both innovation and manufacturing to support the evolving needs of the Indian market. Our track record of global success in telecom and datacom for both thermal and electronics adhesive technologies speaks for itself. This gives our Indian customers the confidence that we can deliver reliable, high-performance and sustainable solutions aligned with their growth goals.