GMP Bearings is a globally respected manufacturer of water-lubricated rubber bearings and Cutlass bearings, serving marine, pump, power, and other critical industrial applications. Founded on deep technical knowledge, in-house material science, and application-driven engineering, GMP operates in a highly specialized niche where reliability, endurance, and tribological performance are paramount.

Established in 1979 as General Metals & Polymers, GMP was founded by Wilson Varghese, a technocrat, innovator, and pioneer in rubber compounding and machinery design. His passion for material science laid the foundation for GMP’s proprietary rubber formulations, many of which were originally developed by him and continuously refined over decades to meet increasingly demanding service conditions.

From its early work supplying marine Cutlass bearings to strategic defence applications, GMP has grown into a trusted global supplier, with its products now used in more than 70 countries worldwide. The company has earned a strong reputation for engineering excellence, consistency, and long service life, particularly in water-lubricated bearing systems operating in harsh and contaminated environments.

Following the passing of Mr. Wilson Varghese in 2024, leadership transitioned to the second generation. Pavin Wilson, who had been working closely with the founder for over 25 years, assumed responsibility for the group’s operations and strategic direction. Celine Wilson, spouse of the late founder, continues as a partner across the group entities. The second generation’s vision is to scale GMP into a more corporate, professionally managed organization, while preserving its core strengths in material science, manufacturing discipline, and customer trust. A strong focus on international compliances, type approvals, and certifications underpins GMP’s next phase of growth, reinforcing its position as a key global player in the niche segment of Cutlass rubber bearings for marine, pump, and other critical industries.

• General Metals & Polymers founded by Mr. Wilson Varghese
• Focus on rubber compounding, machinery, and marine Cutlass bearing development

1980s – 1990s

• Development of proprietary rubber compounds for water-lubricated bearings
• Establishment of GMP as a reliable supplier for demanding marine applications

2006

• ICON brand of Cutlass bearings for pump applications hived off as a separate unit, enabling focused growth in the pump sector

2008

• Kozmik Composites and Alloys established as a backward integration company, specializing in:
– Castings
– Rubber compounding
– Critical input materials for GMP Bearings

2013

• General Machines and Parts started to support expanding domestic and export markets, strengthening manufacturing and supply capabilities

2010s – 2020s

• Rapid expansion of GMP Bearings into global markets
• Products adopted across marine, pump, power, and critical industrial sectors
• GMP bearings deployed in over 70 countries worldwide

2024

• Passing of Mr. Wilson Varghese
• Leadership transitioned to Mr. Pavin Wilson, representing the second generation

Forward Vision

• Transformation into a more corporate and professionally structured organization
• Strong emphasis on:
– International compliances
– Type approvals and certifications
– Sustainable, scalable growth
• Continued and expanding leadership in the niche global market for water-lubricated and Cutlass rubber bearings