The Arya Vaidya Pharmacy (Coimbatore) Limited
Creating A Legacy Of Ayurvedic Excellence
CEO of the Year 2024
Ayurvedic products have a reputation for making an impact on the diversity of healthcare options available to people across the globe. And here comes a brand that stands for relevance as well as excellence in this market.
Yes, we are referring to The Arya Vaidya Pharmacy (Coimbatore) Limited, a brand that has made huge strides in the lives of common people with its extraordinary range of Ayurvedic products. In chats with the CEO, Vipin Vijay, we happened to unpack several aspects of the establishment that would resonate with the expectations of our global aficionado.
THE COMPANY PROFILE
Founded in 1943, The Arya Vaidya Pharmacy (Coimbatore) Limited (AVP) has built an outstanding reputation in Ayurveda healthcare of being a powerhouse drawing on a legacy of over 120 years. Headquartered in Coimbatore, India, AVP stands as a notable organisation in the Ayurvedic space.
With a portfolio exceeding 800 formulations, AVP combines traditional Ayurvedic wisdom with modern scientific advancements. Its distribution network spans over 1000 outlets, reaching a vast network of more than 100,000 stores. In view of this, AVP bands with over 200,000 Vaidyas who guide people and prescribe its effective products.
At present, AVP serves hospitals, manufacturing facilities, treatment centers, and wellness resorts earmarked to increasing Ayurvedic wellness in the global populace. Through exports, AVP extends the benefits of Ayurveda globally.
And, keeping a steady focus on the commitment to research and development helps them in continuous innovation and improves the effectiveness and accessibility of Ayurvedic healthcare. They also introduce academic programs and initiatives to nurture the next generation of Ayurvedic practitioners and researchers.
THE VISION
Spearheading the company higher aloft, Vipin Vijay quips that he is determined to establish AVP as an authentic source of quality Ayurveda Products and Services to the Global Community. His team ensures that traditional Ayurveda Products & Services are offered to the Global Community in an ethical & modern way. Their core values speak volumes of their vision: Quality of care & Purity of treatment.
EVOLVING WITH THE CHANGING MARKET
The Arya Vaidya Pharmacy (Coimbatore) Ltd. is a catalyst in the spreading of the transformative power of Ayurveda. Driven by the ceaseless pursuit of its founders to promote holistic wellness, the venture began in June 1943 by Aryavaidyan Shri P.V. Rama Varier. However, AVP is proud to claim 120 years of healing legacy that was created by Mankulangara Kunjan Varier, the father of Shri P.V Rama Varier.
From its humble beginnings, AVP embarked on a journey of growth and evolution, driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence. In its formative years, the company focused on establishing itself as a trusted provider of Ayurvedic medicines and treatments, gaining recognition for its commitment to authenticity and efficacy.
Now, we envision expanding our new-age products in tier 1 and tier 2 cities, ensuring that the benefits of Ayurveda are accessible to a wider audience. This expansion will help us cater to the growing demand for holistic and natural healthcare solutions in urban centers, aligning with our mission to promote well-being and health through innovative Ayurvedic products.”, says Vipin.
VALUE CREATION WITH R&D
In a field like Ayurveda, research has a significant role in contributing to creating value for people. R&D not only drives innovation but also ensures that AVP is in the know of healthcare advancements. Moreover, it allows them to develop new formulations and products that resonate with the evolving needs of their customers by lending them an edge in the global market.
Vipin proceeds to add that Ayurveda has immense potential for modern applications where people are waking up to the side effects of chemical-based formulations. Through dedicated R&D efforts, they are unlocking the potential and combining the power of traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific methodologies to develop safe, effective, and evidence-based solutions.
“Our commitment to R&D is exemplified by the AVP Research Foundation, which serves as the cornerstone of our research initiatives. The Foundation is dedicated to conducting scientific research, clinical trials, and studies aimed at validating the efficacy and safety of Ayurvedic treatments and formulations.
By collaborating with the AYUSH ministry, leading researchers, institutions both in India and abroad, and experts in the field, we strive to advance the understanding and acceptance of Ayurveda both nationally and internationally,” stated the CEO.
DEFINING NEW AGE LEADERSHIP
As per Vipin’s definition of leadership, it is important to guide a team towards achieving goals. He strives to inspire and empower individuals to reach their full potential. He is a seasoned leader who has the patience to listen to diverse perspectives. This allows him to create a trusting and respectful environment, and provide clear direction and support to his team.
For Vipin, leadership needs to have a clear vision of the future and effectively communicate it to inspire others. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability and agility in today’s dynamic business environment, where leaders must navigate uncertainty, embrace change, and seize opportunities for growth and innovation.
He emphasizes that collaboration lies at the heart of their company’s overall success which allows them to leverage diverse skills and innovative reflection within their workplace. He expressed, “We cultivate a teamwork ethos by championing transparent communication, cooperation, and mutual esteem among our staff. Our dedication to cross-disciplinary collaboration and the exchange of knowledge empowers each team member to bring their distinct viewpoints and insights to the table. ”
FEATHERS IN THE CAP
Since the inception of AVP, the company has been honored with many recognitions by eminent institutions and media houses. A few of the proud milestones they have achieved so far include:
• Inauguration of Ernakulam Branch in 1957, graced by Rama Varma Parikshith Thampuran.
• Inauguration of Delhi Branch in 1960, attended by the Honorable President of India, Shri S. Radhakrishnan.
• Launch of steam-jacketed vessels in 1966, revolutionizing Ayurvedic medicine production.
• Partnership with WHO and ICMR for Clinical Research on Ayurvedic remedies for rheumatoid arthritis in 1976.
• Establishment of CIMH in 1996 to preserve medicinal heritage.
• Formation of Ayushman Trust and international expansion with the first center in Kuala Lumpur between 1998 and 2000.
• Launch of AVP Research Foundation in 2011, with subsequent accolades from the European Society of Integrative Medicine.
• Establishment of AVP Baltics in 2015 and collaborative projects with the University of Edinburgh and the University of Latvia.
• Receipt of grants from the Ministry of AYUSH for various research studies, including on wound healing, rheumatoid arthritis, muscular dystrophy, diabetes, and COVID-19 management.
• Launch of AVT Institute for Advanced Research (AVTAR) in 2003 and initiation of the RUDRA clinical documentation program.
• Collaboration facilitated by a PICRC grant from NIH USA in 2003, involving the University of Washington and UCLA.
• Expansion with clinics in Coimbatore and Bahrain in 2005 and establishment of a training academy and hospital in 2008.
• Receipt of the Padma Shri by the Managing Director in 2009 and earning a Centre of Excellence Grant from the Department of AYUSH by the Ayurvedic Trust.
• Funding from the Ministry of AYUSH for the first international clinical trial on managing Diabetes with Ayurveda in 2020.
• Funding for clinical research on managing COVID-19 through Classical Ayurveda also is provided by the Ministry of AYUSH in 2020.
• Launch of the Consumer Business Division in 2024.
FUTURE ENDEAVORS FOR BUSINESS GROWTH
We wanted to get an overview of AVP’s futuristic vision. To this, Vipin explained that his team is centered on expanding its global presence across new geographic markets, particularly targeting discerning consumers in North America, Europe, and the Middle East.
In view of this strategic expansion plan, they have curated various approaches such as establishing new outlets, forming partnerships with local distributors, and leveraging online sales channels to reach a broader customer base.
Focusing on its innovative streak, its Consumer Business Division is actively involved in the retail sector where they are in efforts to bring the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda into everyday life. New formulations would be developed along with the building of new-age products that are tailored to meet customer needs and market trends.
Furthermore, making efforts in line with enhanced customer experience is a top priority for AVP. For this, they have come up with a well-defined plan for personalized consultations, product authenticity, efficacy, and top-notch customer support services.
We are highly positive of the fact that their selfless efforts and intrinsic vision to heal mankind with the power of Ayurveda would be applauded in every corner of the world and more and more people join their revolutionary vision for human health.
