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Timeline

Macro Group's journey has been marked by a consistent commitment to excellence in the energy, industrial, and infrastructure sectors. Through strategic collaborations, innovative technological advancements, and ongoing expansion into new markets, Macro Group has played a crucial role in shaping Bangladesh’s energy future and continues to pave the way for new developments and opportunities in the coming years.

This comprehensive timeline outlines not only the company’s formation but also its strategic milestones, technological contributions, and global collaborations that have helped solidify its position as a leader in Bangladesh’s energy sector.

Founding and Evolution

  • 1981 – Macro Contacts
    Founded as the first company in the Macro Group, laying the foundation for its involvement in the energy and industrial sectors.
     

  • 1984 – Macro Garments Pvt. Ltd.
    Macro Garments Private Ltd. was established, marking the company’s expansion into the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) industry. As a 1st Generation Company, it significantly contributed to Bangladesh's export-driven economy and played a pioneering role in the development of the RMG sector.
     

  • 1987 – Auto Mac Ltd.
    Auto Mac was created to address the growing demand for vehicles and agricultural machinery. It achieved a significant milestone by performing the first-ever CNG vehicle conversion in Bangladesh, promoting environmentally sustainable transportation solutions.
     

  • 1991 – Macro Prokashal Pvt. Ltd.
    This specialized engineering services company was launched to support the Group’s goal of offering integrated solutions across multiple sectors, further solidifying the Macro Group’s presence in Bangladesh's energy and infrastructure markets.
     

  • 1997 – Macro International Ltd.
    Macro International Ltd. was established to formalize operations and meet the growing demand for comprehensive energy, industrial, and infrastructure solutions in Bangladesh. Though a newly formed entity, it continued the legacy of Macro Contacts, cementing its reputation as a 1st Generation player and an early market leader in these sectors.
     

  • 2006 – Macro Cable Ltd.
    Macro Cable was founded to address the rising demand for high-quality cable solutions in Bangladesh. The company gained recognition for its focus on innovative products like Fire-Proof and Fire-Retardant Cables, catering to critical industrial and commercial applications.   

Collaborations and Projects

  • Power Transmission & Distribution
    Over a long period, Macro International Ltd. has developed long-standing partnerships with top-tier, globally recognized brands such as ABB (Switzerland), Alcatel (France), Phelps Dodge (USA, Thailand), Hyosung (South Korea), Taihan (South Korea), Bangkok Cable (Thailand), Nexans (Germany), Tyco (USA), Samsung (South Korea), Hyundai (South Korea), Raychem (Germany), Pfisterer (Switzerland), and others. These collaborations have enabled the delivery of customized energy solutions across utilities in Bangladesh, playing a key role in the country’s infrastructure development and the growth of its power transmission and distribution network.
     

  • Power Generation
    Macro has made substantial contributions to the power generation sector through strategic collaborations with prestigious companies such as JOHN BROWN ENGINEERING (UK), KVAERNER ENERGY (UK), WESTINGHOUSE SERVICES (USA), F.R. TULK (Australia), MJB INTERNATIONAL (Dubai), and others. These partnerships have been pivotal in providing reliable and sustainable power generation and maintenance solutions, playing a crucial role in meeting Bangladesh's growing energy demands.
     

  • Infrastructure & Communication
    In the realm of infrastructure and communication, Macro has worked with renowned companies such as Samsung (South Korea), Hyundai (South Korea), and Rotem (South Korea), facilitating major projects that integrate advanced technology and innovative solutions to meet Bangladesh’s expanding infrastructure needs.
     

  • Turnkey Projects
    Macro International Ltd. has successfully executed turnkey projects in power distribution and transmission in collaboration with respected companies such as Samsung (South Korea), Hyundai (South Korea), Hyosung (South Korea), and HG Power (Malaysia). These projects, spanning key regions such as Greater Dhaka, Greater Chittagong, and Greater Khulna, include the development of high-voltage transmission lines and Bangladesh’s first integrated underground cable systems. These efforts have significantly enhanced the country’s power grid, improving the reliability and efficiency of its electricity distribution network.
     

  • National Electrification Efforts
    MACRO has played a key role in Bangladesh’s national electrification initiative by working closely with the Rural Electrification Board (REB) from its inception. The company has contributed to the widespread electrification of rural areas through projects funded by global organizations such as IDA, USAID, ADB, KFAED, IDB, and JICA.
     

  • Locomotives and EDCF Fund
    MACRO has made a significant contribution to Bangladesh’s transportation sector by facilitating the acquisition of locomotives from SAMSUNG and HYUNDAI ROTEM (South Korea), backed by South Korea’s Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF). These Korean EDCF fund has been instrumental in supporting various other Korean funded infrastructure development projects in Bangladesh.

Technological Contributions

 

  • Refurbishment Technology for Gas TurbinesMacro International Ltd. broke the monopoly of General Electric (GE) in Bangladesh's gas turbine market, where the company had been charging exorbitant prices for turbine parts and services. In response, Macro introduced refurbishment technology for gas turbines in collaboration with ELBAR BV (Netherlands), offering a cost-effective solution to the government. This innovation significantly enhanced the reliability and efficiency of operations at the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), optimizing turbine performance while reducing operational costs for the national power sector.
     

  • Integrated Underground Cable Network
    The company executed Bangladesh’s first integrated underground cable network for the Greater Dhaka Power Distribution Project under DESA. Partnering with Samsung (South Korea), Macro played a pivotal role in modernizing the power grid and enhancing the stability and reliability of the electrical infrastructure in the capital city, addressing the growing demand for urban electricity.
     

  • Submarine Cables for River Crossings
    Macro was the first in Bangladesh to deliver submarine cables for river crossings, facilitating the electrification of rural areas. This project was made possible through collaboration with Alcatel (France), the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), and the Rural Electrification Board (REB). The deployment of these submarine cables was instrumental in extending reliable electricity access to remote regions, overcoming geographic barriers and boosting rural electrification.
     

  • Fire Proof and Fire-Retardant Cables
    After extensive research and development (R&D), Macro pioneered the production and popularization of fireproof and fire-retardant cables in Bangladesh. These cables have become a key element in improving safety standards for electrical installations across the country. By offering advanced solutions that protect against electrical fires, Macro has significantly contributed to enhancing fire safety in both residential and industrial sectors.
     

  • Monopole Structure for High-Voltage Transmission
    Macro International Ltd. installed Bangladesh’s first monopole structure for high-voltage transmission, a breakthrough technology that improved safety and efficiency in the country’s transmission network. This innovation has played a vital role in reducing transmission losses, enhancing grid resilience, and ensuring a more reliable energy supply nationwide.
     

  • SMS Genuinity Concept for Counterfeit Verification
    In its continuous efforts to ensure product authenticity and maintain high standards, Macro developed and patented the SMS Genuinity Concept, an innovative technology that allows customers to verify the authenticity of Macro’s cables through a simple SMS verification process. This technology was created by Macro to combat the growing issue of counterfeit products in the market. The SMS-based system serves as a reliable safeguard, providing customers with the confidence that they are using certified, high-quality cables for their critical infrastructure. Furthermore, the SMS Genuinity Concept has expanded its application beyond industrial, commercial, or residential sectors, finding use in diverse fields such as the medical industry, where authenticity and quality are paramount for safety, as well as other sectors requiring secure, verified products to protect against counterfeiting risks.

Milestones and Projects 

  • 1982:  Began delivering overhead line conductors, cables, and accessories for various projects under the Bangladesh Rural Electrification Board (BREB). These projects were funded by esteemed international organizations such as IDA, ADB, USAID, KFAED, IDB, and JICA. This was accomplished in collaboration with renowned global partners, including KOTSONS (India), PHELPS-DODGE, ASIAN INSULATORS, TYCO-DULMISON, and BANGKOK CABLE (Thailand).
     

  • 1983: Started providing MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul) services for Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB)’s various gas turbine (GT) power plants in partnership with JOHN BROWN ENGINEERING, UK.
     

  • 1983: For years, OEMs had monopolized the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) of gas turbines (GT) in Bangladesh, blocking others from entering the market. Macro broke this monopoly by introducing OEM licensee JOHN BROWN ENGINEERING (UK). This initiative revolutionized the sector by providing an affordable alternative to the OEM's exorbitantly priced services, significantly reducing maintenance costs across all power plants in Bangladesh.
     

  • 1985: Macro introduced gas turbine (GT) refurbishment technology in Bangladesh in partnership with ELBAR BV, NETHERLANDS, the inventor of turbine refurbishment technology. At the time, OEMs intentionally prioritized selling new components to maximize their profits, often overlooking cost-effective repair solutions. ELBAR disrupted this model by specializing in extending the lifespan of existing components through advanced repair techniques and multiple refurbishment cycles. This innovative approach not only reduced spare parts inventory and associated costs but also provided power plant operators with a far more economical and sustainable alternative. The result was a significant improvement in operational efficiency and maintenance expenses for GT power plants across Bangladesh.
     

  • 1990: Supplied Bangladesh’s first submarine cable for the Tutuila River Crossing project of BPDB, a key milestone in expanding the country's electrification network. This achievement was accomplished in collaboration with KABLEMETAL (Germany).
     

  • 1994:  In partnership with SAMSUNG, South Korea, Macro introduced the first-ever Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) G2G soft loan from the Government of Korea for the Greater Khulna Power Distribution Project under Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB). This collaboration marked a significant milestone in the development of the country’s power distribution infrastructure.
     

  • 1997: Macro completed the first-ever conversion of a power plant in Bangladesh, transforming the Baghabari Power Plant from liquid fuel to dual-fuel operation in partnership with KVAERNER ENERGY, UK. This groundbreaking conversion set a new standard in operational flexibility and efficiency for the country's power generation sector. With the emergence of newly discovered gas resources in the region, this initiative proved to be immensely beneficial in optimizing energy utilization.
     

  • 1999: In continued collaboration with SAMSUNG, Korea Macro supplied 19 Hyundai-made GE EMD DE locomotives to Bangladesh Railway, funded by the Government-to-Government (G2G) Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) soft loan from the Government of Korea. This contribution was instrumental in modernizing Bangladesh’s railway fleet and enhancing its transportation infrastructure.
     

  • 2006: Successfully completed the Greater Dhaka Power Distribution Project, which involved the installation of the first integrated 33kV and 11kV underground cable network in Dhaka. This significant milestone was achieved in partnership with SAMSUNG CORPORATION and TAIHAN CABLES, Korea, contributing to the city’s enhanced power distribution infrastructure.
     

  • 2007: MACRO CABLE introduced Fire-Retardant cables to the market, specifically designed to enhance safety across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. This innovative solution addressed the increasing demand for improved fire protection, offering a crucial safety measure to prevent fire hazards and ensuring compliance with the latest international safety standards in various industries.
     

  • 2010: Completed the 132 kV Transmission Line Project for the Greater Chittagong Power Distribution Project in collaboration with HYUNDAI (Korea).
     

  • 2011: Introduced Fire-Proof cables in Bangladesh through MACRO CABLE, addressing the growing need for fire safety in the Garments Industry.
     

  • 2013: Following the Rana Plaza disaster, MACRO CABLE became the first and only certified Fire-Proof cable provider for Bangladesh’s RMG sector under the Accord and Alliance safety initiatives. We supplied these cables to over 600 leading RMG industries, ensuring compliance with international safety standards. Our solution was also critical for factories constructing LEED-certified industries, helping them meet both fire safety and environmental standards.
     

  • 2015: Installed Bangladesh’s first monopole structure for high-voltage transmission, improving transmission efficiency in partnership with VALMONT, USA.
     

  • 2019: Successfully completed the construction of [specific kilometers] of 132 kV and [specific kilometers] of 230 kV transmission lines for Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB), in collaboration with HG Power Transmission, Malaysia, contributing to the strengthening of the national power grid.
     

  • 2023: Secured multiple contracts for cable supply projects with Dhaka Power Distribution Company Ltd. (DPDC), further strengthening our ongoing commitment to enhancing Bangladesh’s energy infrastructure.

International Collaborations and Influence

  • Partnership with Hyundai and Samsung
    Macro International Ltd. has partnered with Hyundai (South Korea) and Samsung (South Korea) on several landmark projects that have significantly transformed Bangladesh’s national energy landscape. Notably, these collaborations have supported key initiatives such as the Greater Dhaka Power Distribution Project and the 132 kV transmission lines for the Greater Chittagong Power Distribution Project, playing an essential role in modernizing the country's power grid and ensuring more stable and reliable energy distribution.
     

  • Collaboration with PFISTERER (Germany)
    Macro worked with PFISTERER (Germany) on the installation of high-voltage cable accessories, supporting multiple projects throughout Bangladesh. This collaboration helped strengthen the country’s power transmission network, ensuring efficient and reliable operation of the high-voltage infrastructure.
     

  • Support from International Funding Agencies
    Macro has contributed to the growth of Bangladesh’s power transmission and distribution infrastructure through collaboration with several international organizations, including the Asian Development Bank (ADB, Philippines), Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA, Japan), USAID (United States Agency for International Development, USA), and KFAED (Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, Kuwait). These partnerships have enabled Macro to support numerous energy projects, facilitating critical funding and technical assistance to improve the nation’s power sector.
     

  • Key Energy Project Support
    Macro has provided crucial support for several major energy projects across Bangladesh, including:

    • Shahjibazar 60 MW Power Station: Procurement of hot gas path components for GT Units 8 & 9 (GE Frame-6) in collaboration with MJB International Ltd. (UAE).

    • Chandpur 150 MW Combined Cycle Power Plant: Procurement of bearings for GE Frame-9E gas turbine.

    • Fenchuganj CCPP: Procurement of combustion inspection spares for GT-01 & GT-02 (GE Frame-6) of Unit-01.

    • Dhaka Power Distribution Company Ltd. (DPDC): Secured contracts for extensive cable supply projects, which continue to modernize and enhance the power infrastructure across the capital.

Founding and Evolution
Milestones and Projects 
Collaborations and Projects
Technological Contributions
International Collaborations and Influence
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