ACI Limited: A Comprehensive Overview
Established in 1992, ACI Limited (Advanced Chemical Industries Limited) is a leading conglomerate in Bangladesh with a rich heritage. Originally founded as a branch of Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) in 1968, the company transitioned to local management in 1992, marking its evolution into one of the most diversified and influential corporations in the country. ACI Limited is headquartered at the ACI Centre in Tejgaon Industrial Area, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
ACI Limited Company History and Growth
ACI Limited’s roots can be traced back to 1968 when Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI), a British multinational, established a branch in then-East Pakistan. After Bangladesh’s independence, the company was incorporated as ICI Bangladesh Manufacturers Limited in 1973. In 1992, ICI divested its investment, leading to the birth of Advanced Chemical Industries (ACI) Limited.
Since its inception, ACI Limited has experienced remarkable growth, currently holding a 3.8% market share with an impressive growth rate of 8.1%. The company’s success is reflected in its extensive product portfolio, which includes 396 total generics.
ACI Limited Career and Employment
As a major employer in Bangladesh, ACI Limited provides numerous career opportunities across its diverse business units. With over 5,000 employees nationwide, the company offers a range of positions in pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, agribusiness, and retail sectors. Interested candidates can explore ACI Limited job circulars for the latest openings and career advancement possibilities.
ACI Limited Business Divisions
ACI Limited operates through four diversified strategic business units:
ACI Pharmaceuticals
ACI Pharmaceuticals is at the forefront of improving healthcare in Bangladesh through the introduction of innovative and reliable pharmaceutical products. With a market share of 3.8% and a growth rate of 8.1%, ACI Pharmaceuticals has established itself as a trusted name in the industry. The division offers 396 generics, including top brands like Xeldrin, Paricel, and Abecab.
ACI Pharmaceuticals is a leading pharmaceutical company in Bangladesh, with a rich heritage spanning nearly three decades. Employing over 5,000 people nationwide, ACI Pharmaceuticals is committed to improving the health of Bangladeshis by offering innovative and reliable pharmaceutical products.
As the first Bangladeshi company to achieve ISO 9001 certification in 1995, ACI has set the standard for quality management and continuous improvement. The company is also ISO 14001 certified, reflecting its commitment to environmental management.
With a diverse portfolio of over 550 SKUs covering more than 250 molecules across nearly 100 therapeutic classes, ACI Pharmaceuticals excels in developing generics and technologically complex products. The company’s manufacturing facilities are equipped with advanced technologies for producing biosimilar products, insulin, lyophilized products, and more.
ACI’s adherence to current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) has earned it GMP certification from countries such as Kenya, Ivory Coast, and the Philippines.
ACI Pharmaceuticals has a strong international presence, exporting to 30 countries across four continents, and holds Product Marketing Approval in 15 countries.
The company’s commitment to quality and innovation has also made it a trusted contract manufacturer for multinational companies like Servier and a distributor of vaccine products for Sanofi in Bangladesh.
Through its focus on cutting-edge chemistry, patient care, and affordable medicines, ACI Pharmaceuticals continues to play a vital role in meeting the evolving medical needs of patients globally.
The ACI Limited top brands of medicines list include a wide range of medications, such as:
| Medicine Name | Formulation Type | Active Ingredients | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xeldrin (Enteric Coated) | Capsule | Omeprazole | Used to treat acid reflux, peptic ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). |
| Fluclox | Capsule | Flucloxacillin Sodium | An antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, including skin and soft tissue infections. |
| Paricel (Enteric Coated) | Tablet | Rabeprazole Sodium | Used for treating acid-related disorders like GERD and ulcers. |
| Abecab | Tablet | Amlodipine Besilate + Olmesartan Medoxomil | Used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). |
| Reversair | Tablet | Montelukast Sodium | Used for managing asthma and allergic rhinitis. |
| Diasulin | SC Injection | Regular Insulin Human + Isophane Insulin Human | Used to control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes mellitus. |
| Micoral | Oral Gel | Miconazole Nitrate | Used to treat fungal infections of the mouth and throat. |
| Abetis | Tablet | Olmesartan Medoxomil | Used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). |
| Acical-D | Tablet | Elemental Calcium + Vitamin D3 | Used as a dietary supplement to treat or prevent low blood calcium levels. |
| Cerox CV | Tablet | Cefuroxime Axetil + Clavulanic Acid | An antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. |
ACI Consumer Brands
ACI Foods Ltd., a division of Advanced Chemical Industries (ACI) Limited, is a key player in Bangladesh’s food industry. The company focuses on producing high-quality food products under the brand names PURE and FUN, including spices, cereals, edible oils, snacks, and confectionery. With a commitment to improving consumer food habits, ACI Foods also exports its products to several countries, including Australia and the Middle East.
The company has earned recognition for its innovative marketing campaigns, winning multiple awards at COMMWARD 2021. ACI Foods continues to uphold its mission of achieving business excellence through quality, meeting and exceeding customer expectations.
Here are a few food products offered by ACI Foods Ltd. under the brand names PURE and FUN:
| Category | Brand Names | Products |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Spices | PURE | Turmeric, Chili Powder, Coriander, Cumin, Black Pepper |
| Mixed Spices | PURE | Garam Masala, Biryani Masala, Curry Powder |
| Cereals | PURE | Rice, Wheat, Flour |
| Edible Oil | PURE | Soybean Oil, Mustard Oil |
| Snacks | FUN | Chips, Biscuits, Noodles |
| Confectionery | FUN | Chocolates, Candies |
| Ready-to-Cook | PURE/FUN | Instant Soup, Instant Noodles |
| Ready-to-Eat | FUN | Instant Meals, Ready-to-Eat Snacks |
This table provides an overview of the various food categories and products that ACI Foods Ltd. offers under its PURE and FUN brands.
11 awards won by ACI Consumer Brands:
| # | Brand | Campaign | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ACI Pure Salt | ACI Pure Salt Icche Ako Golpo Bolo | Best COVID-19 Response Campaign |
| 2 | Savlon | Savlon Mobile Hospital | Best COVID-19 Response Campaign |
| 3 | Savlon | Savlon Mobile Hospital | Rural Marketing |
| 4 | Savlon | Savlon Hand Sanitizer Brand Endorsement by News Presenters | Best Media Innovation |
| 5 | Savlon | Savlon Hand Sanitizer Awareness Building Campaign | Brand Experience & Promotion |
| 6 | Smart Washing Powder | Supreme Surokkha Aboron | Brand Experience & Promotion |
| 7 | Freedom Sanitary Napkin | Freedom Deaf Society Campaign | Campaign for Women |
| 8 | Freedom Sanitary Napkin | Freedom Sanitary Napkin Vending Machine Network | PR |
| 9 | Freedom Sanitary Napkin | Freedom Sanitary Napkin Vending Machine Network | Social Campaign |
| 10 | Freedom Sanitary Napkin | No Tax on Period | PR |
| 11 | Freedom Sanitary Napkin | No Tax on Period | Social Campaign |
These awards recognize ACI Consumer Brands’ creativity and effectiveness in various marketing and communication campaigns.
ACI Agribusinesses
As the largest integrator in Bangladesh, ACI Agribusinesses is a pioneer in agriculture, livestock, and fisheries. The division also leads in farm mechanization and infrastructure development services, contributing significantly to the nation’s agricultural landscape. ACI’s veterinary products list in PDF format is a valuable resource for farmers and veterinarians alike.
ACI Agribusiness Services
- Fertilizer: Provides a complete plant nutrient and soil health solution to farmers, ensuring optimum crop production. ACI offers quality products, introduces new technology, and prioritizes better customer service and effective communication.
- Agri-Machineries: Delivers a comprehensive farm mechanization solution, empowering farmers with advanced tools to enhance agricultural efficiency.
- Seed: Focuses on business growth by promoting proper agricultural practices and ensuring the appropriate use of hybrid seeds, aimed at increasing crop yields.
- Animal Health: Offers an integrated solution for animal health, helping farmers achieve the highest impact in their lives. ACI’s initiatives contribute to a healthier nation by reducing the protein gap.
- Agrolink: Aims to enrich lives by intervening in the agriculture value chain, ensuring food safety and nutrition security across Bangladesh.
- ACI Motors: Committed to “Bringing Motor to Life,” ACI Motors enhances agricultural productivity with innovative mechanization solutions.
ACI Logistics Limited
ACI Logistics Limited operates the largest retail chain in Bangladesh under the brand name SHWAPNO. With 136 outlets across the country, SHWAPNO serves over 65,000 customers daily, offering everything from fresh produce to household essentials.
Shwapno is well set to become one of Bangladesh’s largest businesses in the coming years. Ranging from 200 to 15,000 square feet. Market leader with 51% market share largest retail chain in the country
Overview of ACI Logistics Limited (Shwapno)
ACI Logistics Limited operates Shwapno, the leading retail brand in Bangladesh. Since its inception in 2008, Shwapno has grown into the largest retail chain in the country, touching the lives of over 35,000 households daily. Originally launched as “Fresh and Near,” Shwapno embodies ACI’s “Seed to Shelf” vision, connecting farmers directly with consumers.
Key Highlights:
- Retail Presence: With over 450 outlets across 62 districts, Shwapno offers a diverse shopping experience, from small convenience stores to large megamall layouts. The brand covers a total retail space of 1,208,868 square feet and employs more than 7,000 staff.
- Product Range: Starting with fresh produce and daily essentials, Shwapno now offers a wide array of products, including apparel, home décor, electronics, and exclusive in-house brands like Shwapno Life.
- Market Leadership: Shwapno holds a 51% market share in the retail sector, making it the undisputed leader in Bangladesh. The brand’s success is attributed to its focus on quality, value, convenience, and world-class retail architecture.
- Operations: Committed to improving the lives of consumers, Shwapno has modernized retail shopping, shifting the focus from traditional wet markets to safer, more reliable retail environments. The company’s sourcing network ensures that over 20% of fresh produce is procured directly from farmers, enhancing both product quality and the welfare of growers.
- Global Recognition: Shwapno’s commitment to quality and sustainability was recognized in 2016 when it joined Global G.A.P., an organization promoting safe, sustainable agriculture globally.
- Market Presence & Recognition: Initially targeting price-sensitive customers, Shwapno has expanded to serve diverse market segments, earning numerous awards. These include the Best Brand Award in the superstore category for four consecutive years and the Asia’s Marketing Company of the Year 2020 by Asia Marketing Federation.
Shwapno’s journey from a local retail brand to a market leader reflects its dedication to quality, customer service, and sustainable growth. With ongoing expansion in E-commerce and retail operations, Shwapno is poised to become one of Bangladesh’s largest businesses in the coming years.
ACI Limited Products and Innovations
ACI Limited’s product portfolio is extensive and diverse, covering pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, and agricultural products. The company’s best-selling pharmaceutical products include Indever, Othera, and Febus, which are available at competitive prices. ACI’s product list in Bangladesh is also accessible in PDF format, providing detailed information on each product’s specifications and pricing.
In the pharmaceutical sector, ACI is renowned for its innovative drugs like Omeprazole, Rabeprazole Sodium, and Montelukast Sodium. The company’s commitment to quality is evident through its certifications, including ISO 9001 for Quality Management and ISO 14001 for Environmental Management.
International Presence
ACI Limited has a strong international presence, with its pharmaceuticals exported to 30 countries across four continents. The company’s global reach is a testament to its commitment to quality and innovation. ACI HealthCare USA, Inc., a subsidiary in the United States, further strengthens its position in the global pharmaceutical market.
Company Structure and Leadership
ACI Limited is a public limited company listed on both the Dhaka and Chittagong Stock Exchanges. The company’s leadership is headed by Chairman Mr. M. Anis Ud Dowla and Managing Director Dr. Arif Dowla. The Board of Directors includes distinguished individuals who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the company.
Employment and Career Opportunities
ACI Limited is one of the largest employers in Bangladesh, with over 11,077 employees. The company offers competitive salaries and a dynamic work environment, making it an attractive option for job seekers. ACI Limited job circulars are regularly updated, providing numerous career opportunities in various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, and agribusiness.
Corporate Social Responsibility
ACI Limited is deeply committed to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and contributes significantly to the national exchequer. In FY 2022-2023, ACI and its subsidiaries contributed Taka 16,732 million in the form of corporate tax, customs duty, and value-added tax. The company is also a founding member of the Community of Global Growth Companies and an active participant in The UN Global Compact.
Conclusion
With a legacy of almost three decades, ACI Limited stands as a beacon of innovation, quality, and corporate responsibility in Bangladesh. The company’s diverse product offerings, commitment to quality, and focus on continuous improvement have cemented its position as a leader in the Bangladeshi market. Whether you’re looking for ACI Limited products, exploring career opportunities, or interested in the company’s rich history, ACI Limited is a name that resonates with excellence and trust.
