A DREAM THAT TOOK FLIGHT
Three decades ago, T.S. Kaladharan embarked on a mission to transform the logistics landscape. As the founder of CSS Group, he built not just a company, but a thriving global enterprise driven by innovation, resilience and a commitment to service excellence.
His journey began not with a grand plan but with simple steps. As a young man eager to make his mark, he found himself in the world of logistics with DHL nearly 45 years ago. He had no way of knowing then that this seemingly ordinary job would shape the course of his destiny. After over a decade with DHL, navigating the intricate web of cargo distribution and freight forwarding, T.S. Kaladharan realized something profound—his dreams could not be contained within the boundaries of employment. He was meant to build and create, so he took a leap of faith, setting his sights on a city that was the epicenter of global commerce—Dubai. With only a 1,200-square-foot office and a team of four, he laid the foundation of CSS Group in 1995.
Reflecting on the early days, T.S. Kaladharan recalls, “When we started, we had a vision, but success was never about just one person. It was always about the people we brought together.” His emphasis on teamwork has been a cornerstone of CSS Group’s enduring success.
THE GROWTH OF CSS
Establishing CSS in the Jebel Ali Free Zone was a game-changer, enabling the company to become one of the largest LCL consolidation operators in the Middle East. “Jebel Ali Free Zone played a crucial role in our growth,” he acknowledges. The decision to expand into India was both a strategic and personal one. “India is home and we wanted to contribute to its growing logistics sector. Meanwhile, Our presence in the Gulf was driven by operational benefits”.
Each expansion was carefully planned to ensure long-term sustainability.
CSS Group steadily grew under T.S. Kaladharan’s leadership. Today, CSS has a significant presence across the UAE, India, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Iraq, Turkey, Kenya and Sri Lanka, offering comprehensive logistics solutions worldwide
BUILDING AN EMPIRE
However, growth was never linear. Every milestone came with its fair share of hurdles—global recessions, market fluctuations and even the unprecedented disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic. His response to crises has always been methodical. “During tough times, we cut costs in areas like marketing and travel, but never on our staff”. This philosophy has kept CSS strong.
One of the most significant tests came during the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused unprecedented disruption in global logistics. However, T.S. Kaladharan saw it as an unexpected opportunity. “After COVID, the logistics industry had a wonderful two years. All service providers, including us, experienced growth”, he states proudly.
ADAPTING TO CHANGE WITH TECHNOLOGY
T.S. Kaladharan recognized early that technology would redefine the logistics sector. For 30 years, CSS has operated on an Oracle-based software platform, continuously evolving with new advancements. “Technology is controlling business now—it’s a tool that can reduce costs. With AI, we don’t know what direction we will move in, but once we implement our new software, we will cut down about 30% of our operational costs,” he shares.
Looking ahead, the company is working towards a completely paperless office & investing in advanced software solutions to streamline operations.
A LEADERSHIP STYLE ROOTED IN PEOPLE
Beyond business strategies and technological innovations, T.S. Kaladharan’s true legacy is the culture he has cultivated within CSS. His leadership has fostered deep employee loyalty, with 40 team members completing over 20 years at the company and 17 surpassing 25 years.
“CSS is all about the team,” he often says. He has always believed that people make the company and their dedication has been its greatest strength.
His management philosophy is inspired by his mentors. They showed him what leadership truly meant—supporting, guiding and standing by your people. T.S. Kaladharan also emphasizes the importance of nurturing talent within the company. “What I learned from my seniors, I try to pass on to my team”. Leadership is about creating an environment where people feel valued and can grow.
THE NEXT CHAPTER
As CSS celebrates 30 years, T.S. Kaladharan reflects on his journey with a mix of pride and anticipation. His family has become an integral part of the company. His children—Chandrakala (CK), Krishna Kaladharan, & Sasikala (SK)—are already deeply involved in the business, bringing fresh perspectives and ideas to propel CSS into its next phase of growth.
In addition, his son-in-law, Arjun Bose and Dr. Britto Satheesh are also key contributors, bringing their own expertise and vision to further strengthen the company.
Despite contemplating retirement, is passion for the business remains unwavering. He also acknowledges that the company’s future depends on continuous expansion. “In the next 10 years, we need more offices, bigger toplines. Growth is key. Topline always brings the bottom line! “ he states.
The 30th-anniversary celebration is set to be a landmark event. “We missed our 25th-year celebration, so this time, we’re making up for it!” he adds. It will be a moment to honor long-serving employees and welcome the next wave of innovators into the CSS family.
WORDS OF WISDOM FOR FUTURE ENTREPRENEURS
When asked about the secret to his success, T.S. Kaladharan’s advice is refreshingly simple yet profound. “Don’t trust too much, but always stay committed”. For young entrepreneurs, he offers this nugget of wisdom: “Be honest and be committed”. These two principles have guided him throughout his career and continue to shape the legacy of CSS.
As CSS Group stands on the threshold of a new era, T.S. Kaladharan’s legacy is firmly etched in the annals of the global logistics industry. His story is not just one of business success—it is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation and, above all, unwavering belief in people. As the 30th-anniversary celebrations loom, one thing is certain—this is not the end of the journey. It’s merely the beginning of an even greater one.
