Imagine a situation where you are stuck in a room for the rest of your working life where your eyes can’t adjust to the light. Or being compelled to sleep in a room where the paint keeps chipping off or doesn’t resonate with your style, comfort, or aesthetic.      

Needless to say, you would be derailed and unfocused in no time. Even though we are made to believe that managing such issues is the job of a professional like a builder or an architect, it’s a more personal matter than you might imagine.  

The effect of a well-painted room is fascinating and subconsciously shapes our mood, focus, and overall mindset. Walk into a neatly painted room, and you will feel the difference instantly. Though often overlooked, the right colors and finishes can turn a home or office into a place of peace and productivity.

If you’re planning a renovation or simply want to elevate your space, we have rounded up the best paint companies in India. Read on to see what they have to offer.

Top Paint Companies In India

India’s paint industry boasts a rich legacy spanning over a century, beginning with the establishment of Shalimar Paints in Howrah, Kolkata, in 1902. As pioneers in the sector, Shalimar Paints paved the way for numerous brands that have since revolutionized the industry. 

Among them, Asian Paints has become a household name, along with several other major players that have shaped the market with innovation, quality, and cutting-edge technology.

Let’s take a closer look at the leading paint companies in India and how they continue to transform spaces with their vibrant hues and durable finishes.

1. Asian Paints

You will be surprised to know that this top Indian paint multinational company was started in a garage in Mumbai, India. Four friends by the name of Champaklal Choksey, Chimanlal Choksi, Suryakant Dani, and Arvind Vaki during the Quit India Movement birthed the company that has a turn-over of ₹30,727.7 Crores now. 

Asian Paints has an impressive range of products that includes Decorative Paints, Industrial Coatings, and even Home Improvement Solutions like waterproofing solutions and wood finishes. It has received numerous awards and recognition owing to its impeccable R and D team and fresh innovation strategies. 

Market

Currently, Asian Paints is sold in over 60 countries, with 27 manufacturing facilities across 15 countries. It gets 80% revenue from the pain manufacturing itself.  The company is known to command 50% of the domestic paint market and 60% market share in the decorative paints business segment. Not only that, but this royalty pain brand has a 70,000-strong dealer network.

Innovations 

• Nerolac Impression: Promises superior finish and durability, ensuring a long-lasting and premium look.
• Asian Paints Beautiful Homes Service: Not limited to painting but offers a complete interior decorating experience, transforming spaces effortlessly.
• Asian Paints Home Solutions App: Ensures all your paint and decor-related queries are resolved with a professional approach, making home improvement seamless and hassle-free.

2. Berger Paints

This paint company is headquartered in Kolkata and is one of the biggest names in the Indian paint industry. It was the year 1969 when Berger Jenson Nicholson Limited acquired British Paints and built the foundation of Berger’s legacy in India. As a matter of fact, it was a champion investment and the sales figures reached up to ₹16 crore by 1978.

Market

Currently, it has 16 manufacturing units in India, 2 in Nepal, and 1 each in Poland and Russia and is present in India, Russia, Poland, Nepal, and Bangladesh with more than 25,000 dealers. Being India’s second-largest Paints company, it is aiming at a Rs 20,000 crore turnover in the next 5–6 years. 

Innovations 

• Berger Paints Beautiful Homes Initiative: It offers a holistic approach to painting your space, whether it’s your home or office. It includes dedicated services such as consultation and home makeover solutions, covering both exterior and interior aspects, along with assistance in finding a certified applicator to get the job done. 
• Eco-Friendly & Aesthetic Commitment: Berger Paints was always big on the eco-friendly yet aesthetic side of the picture, and their Weather Coat and Luxol are a great example of that commitment.
• Easy Clean Range: Another popular range by this paint giant it is designed to remove stains effortlessly while preserving the beauty of a freshly painted space. It offers smooth, matte, or semi-gloss finishes for a satisfying experience.

3. Kansai Nerolac Paints

Another household name is Kansai Nerolac which is a part of the popular Japanese paint company Nerolac Paints. It is the largest industrial paint company based in Mumbai and has 6 paint manufacturing plants and about 6–7 contract manufacturers.

It mainly focuses on environmentally friendly and durable painting known to stand the test of time and is loved by homemakers and builders alike.

Market

Kansai Nerolac holds 13 to 15% of the market share in India and its net profit margins saw an 18.4% increase in the last fiscal year. Its decorative segment contributes around 65% of its net profit compared to its Industrial Coatings. 

Nerolac currently has more than 5000 retail outlets all over the country, and it is expected that the numbers are only going to double in the next coming years.

Innovations 

• Nerolac Impressions & Nerolac Excel: Kansai Nerolac remains a key player in the paint industry with these standout product lines.
• Nerolac Impressions: Focuses on durability, stain resistance, washability, and a unique antifungal property, making it a top alternative.
• Nerolac Excel: Formulated for both interior and exterior applications, highly resistant to dirt, and maintains a fresh look for longer. It also dries within 4–5 hours, a highly appreciated feature.
• Research & Development: Nerolac’s dedicated R&D team continuously innovates with advanced, sustainable products, enhancing its impact on the paint industry.

4. Akzo Nobel India

Headquartered in Dutch Akzo Nobel is the third-largest company in the world and has business in more than 150 countries. Tracing is a legacy way back in the 17th century, it is one of the top brands in India and offers a wide range of products for all your needs. It was formed in 1969 when General Artificial Silk Union and Royal Salt Organon merged. 

Market

The market capitalization of Akzo Nobel India is 15875.13 Cr making it one of the top paint brands in India. Offering both Decorative and Industrial painting solutions, even though its net profit in India is never disclosed, it tends to contribute around 7% to 10% to the market share.

Innovations 

• Aggressive Business Approach: Akzo Nobel has a strong presence in India with products known for aesthetics, durability, resistance, and appeal.
• Key Products: Includes Dulux Velvet Touch, Dulux Easy Care, and Nippon Paint, offering a blend of advanced stain resistance and a luxurious finish.
• Industrial Paints: Provides automated and protective coatings designed to withstand extreme, harsh industrial conditions.

5. Nippon Paints

This Japanese paint company is known to be the fourth largest in the world and is one of the most preferred paint brands in India. It was founded by Jujiro Motegi in the year 1881, and it got its name in the year 1927.

The company has subsidiaries in some major countries in the world and takes pride in being the number one paint company in the Asia Pacific. It has a wide range of products available to its customers which includes wall paints (both interior and exterior), Automotive coating, and Wood and Metal finishes. 

Market

Currently, Nippon Paint is the 1,233rd most valuable company in the world and has a significant position to manipulate the Indian market scene too. It plans to reach the 600Cr revenue mark this financial year. Interestingly, it is going to be completed in India in 15 years in 2026. 

Innovations 

• Eco-Friendly Approach: Committed to sustainability, the company is known for its unique innovations in the paint industry.
• Healthy Consumer Paints: Focuses on providing a sustainable and environmentally friendly painting experience.
• Automotive Paint Innovation: Soul Red the latest collaboration with Mazda, offers an appealing look and premium finish.
  

6. Shalimar Paints

Shalimar Paints was the pioneer of the paint industry in India when AN Turner and AC Wright founded Shalimar Paints Colour & Varnish Ltd in the year 1902. It set up a large manufacturing industry in Howrah, West Bengal, and the rest is history. 

Not only that, but it was also the first paint company in India to be privileged enough to paint a fighter aircraft. Presently, it has 30+ depots and more than 5,000 dealers across the country.

Market

Even though Shalimar Paints right now is yet to catch up with its competitors when it comes to dominating the paint market, it still does have a praiseworthy hold on the market. Shalimar Paints’ revenue for the 2022-2023 financial year (FY23) was a whopping Rs 4,928 million. 

Innovations 

• Specialty Paints: Designed for high-traffic areas, ensuring a durable and intact finish even in vulnerable spaces.
• Zero Damp Smart Technology: Offers protection from water damage with dual seepage resistance, making it ideal for monsoon-prone areas. Comes with an assured warranty and protection.
• Strategic Collaborations: Shalimar has never shied away from collaborating with big investors to bring progressive changes to its products.

7. Jotun Paints

Jotun Paint has an indisputable global presence operating in a hundred-plus countries in the world and was established in year 1926. Currently, it has a strength of 10 349 employees worldwide and operates in four sectors, namely, decorative paints, marine coats, protective coating, and powder coatings.

They plan to tap customers from different sectors, and their vision goes beyond the limited concept of a painting brand’s home architectural design. Interestingly, Jotun is also riding the tide in the Marine and Energy sectors with its innovative approach to the concept.  

They are trying to bring in a modern outlook towards the traditional legacy of paint by investing aggressively in technology, backed by research and development.

Market

Currently, it has an operating revenue of 31.861 billion NOK with a 20.2% operating margin. It has to its name a BBB+ credit rating issued by the Nordic credit rating.

In India, they have headquarters in Mumbai Andheri East, and are one of the leading brands.

Innovations 

• Unique Selling Point: Approach towards modern technological advancement in the painting sector, with consistent progress.

• High-Quality Coatings & Solutions: Designed to withstand hostile environments while preserving design vision.

• Innovative Options: Includes choices like a metallic finish or a top coat with UV resistance for enhanced durability and appeal.

8. Jenson & Nicholson Paints And Sheenlac

Jensen and Nicholson Paints was founded in 1821 as a coach paint manufacturer and later relocated its headquarters to Barclay. Over the years, the company has undergone several acquisitions.

For the financial year ending March 31, 2022, its operating revenue ranged between INR 1 crore – 100 crore, with an authorized share capital of Rs. 80,000,000 and a paid-up capital of Rs. 3,000,000.

In April 2024, Sheenlac Paints acquired Jensen and Nicholson Paints in India.

Sheenlac Paints was founded in 1962 by John Peter, and its first factory was established in 1971 at Ambattur. The company began with Thinner and Wood Polish, becoming the first brand to introduce a non-alcoholic wood polish to the market.

Market

The company saw a whooping revenue of over 500 crore in the last financial year and currently, its worth is ₹51.92 cr. However, Sheenlac Paints is currently eyeing a revenue of over 1000 crore as quoted by MD Peter.

Innovations 

• HDPE Bottles: In 1977, Sheenlac Paints became the first to package products in HDPE bottles and list Thinner and Polish as brands. By 1991, it had grown into the largest manufacturing facility for Thinners and Polishes in India.
• Expansion & Growth: They have also ventured into manufacturing and decorative coating in 2010 which has an installed capacity of 36,000 KL/PA. With time, it started asserting more dominance in the market, and in 2018, launched the InstaColour series, which provided 3000 color options to customers.

9. Sirca Paints

Established on January 19, 2006, Sircolor Wood Coating Private Ltd eventually became Sirca Paints. Its initial business model was to cast resale products imported from Italy and Korea, but now it is one of the leaders in North India for wood coatings.

Currently, the company is focusing on setting up an in-house manufacturing unit for NC, melamine, and economical PU products apart from the current offerings. The thing about this brand is it is popular among users for its commitment to excellence, and most importantly, taking a constant progressive walk toward innovation.

Market

This wood coating maestro had a revenue of ₹2,726 million in the last financial year. It mainly dominates the market with its unique premium interiors, blended with an artistic style that never goes out of fashion.

Innovations 

• Sirca has a range of industrial coatings, architectural paints, automotive, coatings, and specialty coatings. They are dedicated to investing in environmentally friendly products along with ensuring their durability and aesthetic proportions.

10. British Paints

Founded by the great James W Adamson in 1919 in London, this colossal paint brand entered India during its time of independence. However, it couldn’t stand the test of time and had to leave India with nothing much to offer.

But with the onset of 2009, they saw a successful comeback as a part of Berger Paints, India, and since then they have been dominating the Indian painting scene.

Market

Currently, British pain has 12,000+ channel partners, OEMs for manufacturing locations, and 60 branch offices with his headquarters in New Delhi. It serves more than millions of customers in the country and is mainly known for its architectural coatings and general industrial coatings along with waterproofing solutions. 

The thing about a company like British Paints is the trust factor lies in its name which shows in its current valuation which is estimated to be somewhere around 119 million dollars.

Innovations

• Pan-India Presence & Innovation: With a pan-India presence, it offers a wide range of innovative and daring painting solutions that no brand has dared to approach.
• Versatile Applications: Goes beyond the concept of painting and offers plaster, fall ceilings, concrete, brickwork, woodwork, metalwork, and many other functions while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of a place.
• Advanced Protection: Formulated with an anti-carbonation coating to provide ultimate protection, backed with ease of application and durability.

11. Snowcem Paints

Founded by Mr. Nanji Kalidas Mehta, a visionary and a dreamer way ahead, of his time Snowcem Paints has 60+ years of legacy behind them. It currently is one of of the experts in exterior wall care while carefully deepening its roots in interior home painting.

With a motto to have a sable approach to painting, it has 21 distribution centers, 3 manufacturing plans, and over 3500 dealers in the country headquartered in Mumbai.

Market

They have a well-decorated lineup of products and are the top choice for both residential and commercial projects. What makes them unique is their specialized focus on cement-based coatings, in addition to an impressive range of exterior and interior paint products.

Currently, their revenue ranges from 1 to 100 crore, according to the financial year 2020.

Innovations

• Eco-Friendly Innovation: Snowcem Paints offers innovative solutions combined with an eco-friendly approach, featuring Mercury and Chromium-free products along with a 360° range of services.
• Unique Features: Includes a Paint Budget Calculator and application testing, ensuring consumers are confident in their investment in the brand.
  

Factors to Choose The Best Paint Company

Choosing a paint brand can be challenging as it reflects your identity. The way you design your office or home speaks volumes about you, and you want to ensure it leaves the right impression. Selecting one brand among many big names is difficult due to various critical factors.

Quality: The first priority is performance. A paint job is a costly process, typically repeated every 5 to 6 years, so durability and coverage are crucial. The finish and protection offered by the product should be a top priority.

Diversity: A diverse product range is beneficial. If a brand offers solutions for both interior and exterior needs, it’s a great choice. Additionally, consider how well the brand caters to customization needs and the extent of its flexibility.

Innovation: Brands frequently introduce new technologies and eco-friendly solutions. Opting for environmentally sustainable products backed by research and development ensures a long-term, profitable investment.

Branding: If you’re going for a product, that’s expensive, you have to ensure that you go for one that can be trusted. So focusing on the brand history and reputation should be another of your criteria in choosing a paint brand.

Consultation: Big brands like Asian Paints, Berger Paints, and others offer a professional consultation before you decide to buy a product. So, it would be only wise to look for companies that have dedicated professionals to make you understand the entire process and steps to go about it.

Apart from all these factors, you have to make sure that there is a product warranty for the product which you are opting for. A certain guarantee assurance will also help you make a better and more sustainable decision financially.

Conclusion

This was our list of the top 10 paint brands in India and their unique innovations.

With some of the biggest brands dating back to pre-independence India, the country has an impressive legacy in the paint industry. Paint is no longer just a wall protector—it has become an integral part of design and decor conversations.

With dedicated professionals constantly introducing new features, the choices are endless.We hope this list helps you make an informed decision, find the right color or brand, and choose the best option for your needs.

People are also reading: 

• 10 Top CCTV Camera Brands in India
• 10 Top Jeans Brands In India
• 10 Top AC Brands
• 10 Best Speaker Brands in India
• 10 Best Gas Stove Brands In India
• Top steel companies in the world

Frequently Asked Questions:  

1. Which paint brands offer the best quality in India? 

Asian Paints is one of the highest-selling paint brands in India, followed by Berger Paints, with an array of innovative paint options and styles. 

2. How does market share vary among different paint companies in India?

The market share gap among the leading paint brands in India is quite distinctive. Asian Paints holds a 53% share, while Berger Paints comes in second with 19%, followed by Kansai Nerolac in third place with 12%. The remaining share is divided among multiple smaller brands.

3. What types of paints are offered by leading companies in India?

There are various types of paints offered by the paint companies in India including Interior Paints, Exterior Paints, Eco-Friendly Paints, Wood and Metal Paints, and others. 

4. Are there any eco-friendly paint companies in India?

Yes, there are various eco-friendly paint companies in India that include Asian Paints(Asian Paints Royale Atmos), Berger Paints (Berger Easy Clean),  AkzoNobel (Dulux EasyCare), and others

5. Which paint company has the widest distribution network in India?

Asian Paints has the widest distribution network in India with 70,000 dealers and 135 depots. 

6. What factors should I consider when choosing a paint company in India? 

The various factors that you need to consider in choosing a paint company in India are quality, pricing, customization, branding, professional consultations, and guarantee or warranty assurance.