A pencil is a writing instrument or art medium constructed of a narrow, solid pigment core inside a protective casing which prevents the core from being broken and/or from leaving marks on the user’s hand during use. Most pencil cores are made of graphite mixed with a clay binder which leaves grey or black marks that can be easily erased. Polymer graphite's superior mechanical property allows for a wide variety of sizes for mechanical pencils, 0.3mm, 0.5mm, 0.7mm, and 0.9mm being commonly available. Graphite pencils are used for both writing and drawing and result in durable markings. According to the different grades, there is a variety of HB, B, 2B, 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B, 7B, 8B, 9B, and 10B. Writing, drawing, sketching, coloring and shading is the basic applications of the wooden pencil.
The market for writing instruments in India is estimated at 1600 to 2400 million pieces a year. The total market for writing instruments is estimated at Rs 22 billion in value and is growing at around 8 to 10% annually. Major Indian players in the ballpoint pen market are Cello, Lexi, Reynolds, Luxor, Flair, Montex, Todays, Linc and so on. Out of these, Cello, Lexi and Reynolds have a major share of the market. There is a growing demand of polymer pencil in the market. The products find application in schools, colleges, government offices, commercial establishments, NGOs and miscellaneous activities. According to the type of carbon used, pencils are classified as soft, medium and hard. There is no doubt about the acceptability of the product and lead pencils still command a respectful demand. The product has a good export potential also. Thus, as an entrepreneur this project offers an exciting opportunity to you.
Few Indian major players are as under
· Add Pens Pvt. Ltd.
· Excella Pencils Ltd.
· Hindustan Pencils Pvt. Ltd.
· Luxor Writing Instruments Pvt. Ltd.
· Model Sales Agency Ltd.
· Ravlon Pen Co. Ltd.
· Reynolds Pens India Pvt. Ltd.