The Forbes Global 2000 ranks the largest companies in the world by sales, profits, assets and market value. GCCs of these organisations have been setting up in India at a compound annual growth rate of 5.5%, ANSR found.
Further, 45% of them have expanded their presence across multiple cities with multi-centre operations.
As many as 85% of these GCCs focus on artificial intelligence and data analytics, the data showed. Cloud computing (80%), robotics process automation (75%), digital commerce (70%), cybersecurity (70%), and emerging technologies like blockchain, augmented and virtual reality, and internet of things (45%) are other key focus areas.
This indicates that these centres are no longer just cost-saving hubs but have evolved into strategic drivers of innovation and digital transformation, the report said.
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“The next generation of GCCs represents a transformative shift, driven by an integrated ecosystem that fosters collaboration between GCCs, service providers, and startups,” the report said. “India, uniquely positioned at the crossroads of product companies, service providers, and innovative startups, offers a close-knit environment where companies can build their own teams while tapping into emerging technologies.”Industry-wise, BFSI accounts for 18% of these GCCs followed by manufacturing (12%) and retail/CPG (12%).
Bengaluru and Hyderabad remain the major hubs, hosting 285 and 110 such GCCs, respectively, and employing 560,000 and 190,000 professionals, respectively.
About 60% of the Forbes Global 2000 GCCs in India (over 265) originate from North America, followed by Europe at over 125.
“By leveraging these regional collaborations, GCCs can accelerate innovation and lead in emerging technological advancements, further strengthening India’s role as a global innovation hub,” the report said.
In July-November 2024, Bengaluru saw 18 new GCCs set up, followed by Hyderabad at nine, Delhi at two, and one in Mumbai. About 33% of these were in the software and technology sector, 13% in BFSI, 10% in manufacturing, and 10% in healthcare and life sciences.
Notable organisations that set up GCCs during this period include American hospitality multinational Marriott in Hyderabad and energy major Chevron in Bengaluru. Animal healthcare company Zoetis and British bank NatWest expanded their existing GCCs in Hyderabad and Bengaluru, respectively, to accommodate growing workforces and expand operations.
“These developments highlight India’s sustained appeal as a top destination for GCCs, fuelled by its abundant skilled talent, supportive government policies, and cost advantages,” the report said.
About 30% of the workforce at these GCCs are women. Tier-II cities like Ahmedabad, Vizag and Coimbatore are also emerging hubs, the report noted.
