Walton engages next generation to ensure future leadership and global expansion

Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC, a listed engineering company on Bangladesh's capital market, is moving steadily towards its goal of becoming a top global brand, while maintaining its leadership in the country's electronics sector. As part of this vision, the company is expanding internationally and preparing the next generation for future leadership roles.

To this end, Walton's sponsor-directors have recently transferred a significant number of shares to the younger generation, following regulatory guidelines. This initiative is intended to integrate talented, proactive, and committed young individuals into the company's operations and long-term growth strategy.

Md Ziaul Alam, FCA, ACA (ICAEW), Additional Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer of Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC, said that sustainable growth requires a strong institutional structure, skilled human resources, and the development of future leadership. "Profit-making is not Walton's sole objective," he said. "We are investing heavily in developing Bangladesh's electronics industry, enhancing technological advancement, and generating employment while contributing to the country's socio-economic progress."

As a result of these share transfers, Walton's free-float shares on the capital market now exceed the 10 percent threshold set by the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC). More importantly, the move has paved the way for the younger generation to take on key leadership roles as Walton continues its journey towards becoming a global player.

The company's efforts have not gone unnoticed. Walton recently received the "Excellence in Investment Award 2025" in the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) category at the Bangladesh Investment Conference 2025, organised by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA). The award was presented by the Honourable Chief Adviser of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus.

Walton maintains corporate transparency by adhering to international accounting standards and local regulations. This has earned the company several national and international awards for excellence in corporate governance and best presented annual reports.

Addressing the current state of the capital market, Md Rafiqul Islam, FCS, Deputy Managing Director and Company Secretary of Walton, said that global economic instability caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war has led to prolonged bearish trends in the market, affecting share prices across sectors—including Walton. However, he expressed hope that the interim government's task force and its recommendations will help revive investor confidence and restore market stability.

Reflecting on Walton's journey, he noted that the company initially began with a handful of products—refrigerators, televisions, and air conditioners—but has since expanded into lifts, cables, home and kitchen appliances, and other electrical items. These additions have strengthened Walton's product portfolio and boosted its annual turnover.

Looking ahead, Walton remains committed to innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. As Bangladesh transitions from a least developed country to a middle-income one, Walton is investing in eco-friendly projects, youth and women empowerment, and inclusive business practices, all aimed at elevating the nation's global stature.

Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC made its stock market debut in 2020, getting listed on both the Dhaka and Chittagong Stock Exchanges. Through consistent performance, corporate transparency, and strong governance, it has emerged as one of the top companies in terms of market capitalisation. Since listing, the company has consistently rewarded shareholders, offering dividends of 200 percent in FY2019-20, 250 percent in FY2020-21 and FY2021-22, and 300 and 350 percent in FY2022-23 and FY2023-24 respectively.