RFL manufactures helmets for the first time in country

RFL Group has launched motorcycle helmets in the market, for the first time by a local company in the country, with the aim of delivering high-quality helmets within the purchasing power of common people.

RN Paul, managing director of RFL Group, unveiled the cover of "Safemet" branded helmet at a hotel in the capital on Thursday.

Initially, two types of helmets will be available in the market. The half-face helmet will have a maximum retail price of Tk1,400 while the full-face helmet will cost Tk2,250.

These helmets are being produced in the factory of Durable Plastic Limited, a sister concern of RFL Group, located in Palash, Narsingdi. 

The factory, with an initial investment of Tk20 crore, has an annual production capacity of over 120,000 pieces.

Currently, the annual helmet market in the country is over Tk500 crore. Almost all helmets used in Bangladesh are imported and about 60% of them come from India and the remaining from China.

Addressing the occasion, RN Paul said a helmet is an important accessory for bikers. Apart from ensuring safety, it is mandatory for bikers and pillion riders to wear helmets as per the existing laws of the country.

The number of motorcycle users in Bangladesh is increasing day by day due to various reasons including socio-economic conditions and lifestyle changes. For the same reason, the demand for helmets is also rising, he said.

Paul also said the helmets available in Bangladesh are almost imported and most of the imported helmets are not of standard quality. The Safemet helmet is Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) certified, which is the only one in Bangladesh.

Standard helmets should be used by everyone during journeys. In this context, RFL started the helmet business. The main purpose of entering into this business is to deliver high-quality helmets within the purchasing power of people, he added.

During the ceremony, Toukirul Islam, executive director of Durable Plastic Limited, said the main feature of the Safemet helmet is that it is made of advanced ABS shell and PC material. It has a high-quality belt and locking system. Moreover, there is an advanced ventilation system to ensure the comfort of the user.

He also said that there is a plan to export Safemet helmets after meeting the needs of the country. Some foreign buyers have already visited the factory and expressed their satisfaction with the production system.