While largely known for tourism and boutique businesses, Pondicherry is home to several notable companies and industrial players.
- **Hidesign:** An internationally recognized premium leather goods manufacturer that was founded and is headquartered in Pondicherry. - **FMCG & Manufacturing:** Major corporations like Hindustan Unilever, Marico, and Whirlpool have established significant manufacturing facilities in the industrial estates surrounding the city. - **IT Hardware:** Lenovo (formerly IBM's PC division) has historically operated significant manufacturing and assembly plants in the region. - **Auroshikha & Maroma:** Internationally exported brands specializing in incense, essential oils, and home fragrances, strongly tied to the Auroville ecosystem.
