ENRISSION INDIA CAPITAL Backs Nova Nova to Redefine Gen Z Snacking in India

ENRISSION INDIA CAPITAL announces its investment in Nova Nova, a bold and fast-growing Gen Z–focused D2C chocolate brand in India. The investment, made as part of Nova Nova’s Pre-Series A round through our fund, marks a key step in supporting the next generation of consumer-first food brands.

India is home to over 377 million Gen Z consumers—nearly 40% of the population—who are reshaping the snacking landscape with their demand for lighter, on-the-go indulgences. Nova Nova is at the forefront of this shift, offering playful, bite-sized chocolate formats that are fun, shareable, and designed for everyday enjoyment.

Founded by Harsh Gadia and Nidhi Gadia, Nova Nova has quickly carved out a distinct space in India’s sweet-snacking market. The digital-first brand stands out for its focus on product innovation and format-driven storytelling, engaging modern consumers with indulgent, everyday snacking experiences that match their evolving tastes.

Harsh Deodhar, Principal at ENRISSION INDIA CAPITAL, said, 

Nova Nova captures the essence of what today’s young consumers seek authenticity, creativity, and an emotional connection with the brands they love. With this investment, we look forward to partnering with Harsh and Nidhi as they scale Nova Nova’s presence, expand product innovation, and strengthen its position as a new-age chocolate brand built for global appeal.

Harsh and Nidhi Gadia, Co-founders of Nova Nova, said,

At Nova Nova, we recognised a gap between traditional treats and modern snacking, and an opportunity to create an indulgent, engaging brand of chocolate that speaks to the aspirations and lifestyle of today's consumers. Partnering with ENRISSION INDIA CAPITAL helps us accelerate that vision—to reach more consumers, introduce new product formats, and bring sparks of joy and indulgence to their everyday life.

At ENRISSION INDIA CAPITAL, we are focused on backing visionary founders who are reimagining consumer behavior through innovation and design. Nova Nova exemplifies this ethos by redefining how India’s Gen Z experiences chocolate—making sweet moments more frequent, fun, and meaningful.

With this investment, ENRISSION INDIA CAPITAL and Nova Nova are partnering to bring a fresh take on indulgence to the Indian market, paving the way for a new era in everyday snacking.

BSE Index Services launches BSE Multicap Consumption (50:30:20) Index

BSE Index Services Pvt. Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of BSE, today announced the launch of a new index - BSE Multicap Consumption (50:30:20) Index. The BSE Multicap Consumption (50:30:20) Index aims to track the performance of stocks representing the Consumption theme. Top 100 stocks from a universe of stocks belonging to the MEI Sectors ‘Consumer Discretionary’ or ‘Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG)’ would be included in the index.

The BSE Multicap Consumption (50:30:20) Index is derived from the constituents of BSE 500 Index, weighing method is Float-Adjusted Market Cap with the base value as 1000. The first value date is 19th December 2005, and it is reconstituted Semi-annually in June and December.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Ashutosh Singh, MD & CEO said, “The BSE Multicap Consumption Index offers a holistic representation of India’s enduring consumption story across market capitalizations, a theme that the government of India has repeatedly supported through various policy and taxation measures. Designed with investors and asset managers in mind, the index provides a robust benchmark and an investable framework for gaining access to a diversified portfolio of consumption-oriented companies”

This new index can be used for running passive strategies such as ETFs and Index Funds as well as gauging the performance of Consumption sector in India. It can also be used for benchmarking of PMS strategies, MF schemes and fund portfolios. Investors can now access a broader spectrum of market opportunities, further enriching their investment strategies with this latest addition to BSE's suite of indices.

Click here to know more about the index.

Reliance to Build ₹1,500 Cr Food Factory in Nagpur, Create 500+ Jobs

Reliance Consumer Products Ltd (RCPL), the FMCG arm of Reliance Industries, is making a major move in Maharashtra’s industrial landscape with a ₹1,500 crore investment to establish an integrated food and beverage manufacturing facility in Katol, Nagpur.

Project Highlights

• Location: Katol, Nagpur district, Maharashtra
• Investment: ₹1,500 crore (₹1,513 crore as per some reports)
• Employment: Expected to generate over 500 direct jobs
• Timeline: Operations slated to begin in 2026
• Government Support: Maharashtra government signed an MoU to facilitate approvals, clearances, and financial incentives

Strategic Context

This facility is part of RCPL’s broader ambition to become India’s largest FMCG company with global reach.
At Reliance’s recent AGM, Isha Ambani revealed:

• RCPL aims to hit ₹1 lakh crore in revenue within five years
• Plans include ₹40,000 crore investment in AI-driven, sustainable food parks across India

Product Expansion

RCPL has been rapidly scaling with brands like:

• Independence (staples and packaged foods)
• Campa, Alan’s, Enzo, Ravalgaon, and Tagz Foods

This Nagpur facility will likely serve as a key node in their distribution and manufacturing network, enhancing both regional employment and national supply chain capabilities.

India’s First Prebiotic Soda Brand Misfits Attracts Strategic Investors in Seed Round

Misfits, India's pioneering prebiotic soda brand, today announced the successful completion of its seed funding round, raising an undisclosed amount from a consortium of prominent investors. The round was led by Nu Ventures, seasoned angel investor Subba Rao Telidevara, Turiya Advisory Services’ Managing Director Bijoy Daga; and renowned corporate finance and strategic investment consultant Robert Pancras.

Founded by brothers Aditya and Yash, Misfits has disrupted India's beverage industry by introducing the country's first prebiotic soda that combines bold taste with gut-friendly benefits. The brand's flagship product contains zero added sugar and are low in calories, positioning itself as a healthier alternative to traditional carbonated drinks.

The funding will be utilized to enhance production capabilities, expand distribution networks, and accelerate market penetration across India. Since its launch, Misfits has gained significant traction with consumers seeking functional beverages that deliver both taste and health benefits.

Left to right - Aditya Pai & Yash Pai(Co-founders of Misfits)

"We are thrilled to partner with investors who share our vision of revolutionizing India's beverage landscape," said Aditya Pai, Co-founder of Misfits. "This funding validates our mission to provide consumers with a guilt-free alternative to sugar-loaded sodas while supporting gut health through innovative prebiotic formulation."

Yash Pai, Co-founder of Misfits, added, "The investment will enable us to scale our operations and introduce new flavors while maintaining our commitment to clean-label ingredients and functional benefits. We're excited to build a brand that resonates with health-conscious consumers across India."

The funding round reflects growing investor confidence in India's functional beverage market, where consumers increasingly prioritize health benefits alongside taste preferences. Misfits' unique positioning as India's first prebiotic soda addresses this evolving consumer demand.

"Misfits represents exactly the kind of innovative brand that can transform traditional categories," said Venk Krishnan, Founder of Nu Ventures.

"The founders have identified a genuine market gap and developed a product that delivers authentic functional benefits while maintaining the taste profile consumers expect from carbonated beverages. Their approach to building a health-focused alternative in the soda category has tremendous potential for market disruption." said Subba Rao Telidevara, angel investor and former industry executive.

Misfits differentiates itself through plant-based ingredients, natural sweeteners, and zero preservatives, appealing to conscious consumers who value transparency and health benefits. The company's clean-label approach includes providing third-party lab reports, enabling informed consumer decision-making and building trust in the functional beverage space.

Founded by brothers Aditya and Yash, Misfits is India's first prebiotic soda brand committed to providing healthier alternatives to traditional carbonated beverages. The Mumbai-based startup combines functional ingredients with bold flavors to create products that support digestive health while delivering the taste experience consumers expect from premium sodas. With its clean-label approach and innovative formulation, Misfits is redefining what fizzy drinks can be in the Indian market.

Wilmar Tightens Grip on AWL with ₹7,150 Cr Stake Buy, Adani Group Exits FMCG

Wilmar International is making a strategic move to deepen its footprint in India’s agribusiness sector. Here's the key breakdown:

Deal Overview

• Acquirer: Wilmar International, via its subsidiary Lence Pte Ltd
• Target: AWL Agri Business Ltd (formerly Adani Wilmar Ltd)
• Stake: Up to 20% (minimum 11%) of paid-up equity
• Valuation: ₹7,150 crore at ₹275 per share

Ownership Shift

• Wilmar currently holds 43.94% in AWL.
• Post-acquisition, its stake will rise to between 54.94% and 63.94%, making it the majority shareholder.

Adani Group’s Exit Strategy

• Adani Group is exiting the FMCG business to focus on infrastructure.
• Already sold:
• 13.51% stake in Jan 2025 for ₹4,855 crore
• 20% stake in July 2025 to Wilmar
• Plans to divest the remaining 10.42%, completing a full exit

Regulatory Filing

Wilmar has filed with the Competition Commission of India (CCI) under Section 5(a) of the Competition Act, 2002.

The parties assert no competition concerns and no need for market delineation

This move not only consolidates Wilmar’s control over AWL but also signals a broader pivot in India’s agribusiness landscape.

UAE-based Alpha Wave Buys 6% Stake in Haldiram's

Alpha Wave, a UAE-based investment fund, has acquired a 6% stake in Haldiram's for ₹5,600 crore. This follows a recent 9% stake sale to Singapore's Temasek. These investments are part of Haldiram's strategy to expand its presence and prepare for a potential IPO.

Haldiram's is valued at ₹84,000 crore after merging its Nagpur and Delhi businesses, is now exploring further stake sales and regulatory approvals to strengthen its market position.

Based in the UAE, Alpha Wave is known for its investments in high-growth sectors, including companies like SpaceX. The acquisition of 6% stake in Haldiram's for ₹5,600 crore is part of Haldiram's strategy to prepare for an IPO and expand its market presence.

Haldiram's journey from a family-run business to a global snack giant is fascinating indeed.

The recent investments by Alpha Wave and Temasek signal a transformative phase for Haldiram's. The funds can be utilized to innovate their product line, enhance manufacturing capabilities, and expand their distribution network.

With the financial backing of prominent investors, Haldiram's can strengthen its presence in international markets, tapping into the growing demand for Indian snacks worldwide.

These investments help establish a strong valuation for the company, paving the way for a potential Initial Public Offering (IPO). This could further boost their market presence and attract more investors.

With increased resources, Haldiram's can better compete in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, both domestically and globally.

This is a pivotal moment for Haldiram's as it transitions from a family-run business to a global powerhouse. What aspect of this journey intrigues you the most?

Haldiram's to Sell 10% Stake to Temasek

Haldiram Snacks Food, India's leading snacks and sweets company, has announced a strategic partnership with Singapore-based investment firm Temasek. Temasek will acquire a 10% equity stake in Haldiram Snacks Food at a valuation of $10 billion (approximately ₹85,000 crore). This deal is considered the largest private equity consumer transaction in India.

The investment will support Haldiram's ambitious expansion plans, both domestically and internationally, enhancing its presence in the competitive global snacks market. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to close soon.

The deal is subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to close soon.

Additionally, Haldiram is reportedly in discussions to sell an additional 5-6% stake, potentially raising another $500 million. This could further bolster its growth initiatives.

The Indian snacks market is projected to grow significantly, from ₹42,694.9 crore in 2023 to ₹95,521.8 crore by 2032. This positions Haldiram well for future growth.

Haldiram's journey from its humble beginnings in 1937 in Bikaner, Rajasthan, to becoming a global brand with products sold in over 80 countries is remarkable. This partnership with Temasek marks another milestone in its growth story.

The funds raised will be used to support Haldiram's ambitious expansion plans, both domestically and internationally. The company aims to strengthen its presence in the competitive global snacks market.

PwC's investment banking team acted as the exclusive financial advisor for the transaction, while Khaitan & Co provided legal advisory services.

FMCG Sector Revenue To See A Mild 100-200 bps Recovery to 6-8% Next Fiscal

Urban demand recovery to be gradual, rural demand to remain steady, credit profiles to be stable

The fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector should see revenue rebound 100 to 200 basis points (bps) to 6-8% in fiscal 2026, compared with a more modest 5-6% expected in fiscal 2025* as volume rises 4-6% on a gradual recovery in urban, and steady rural, demand.

Traditional FMCG companies will continue to target acquisition of direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands, increase adoption of digital channels, and introduce more lower price packs and products amidst rising competition to support volume growth, which has remained subdued over the past few fiscals.

Another ~2% revenue uptick should come from realisations as FMCG companies partly pass on the impact of inflation in key categories such as soaps, biscuits, coffee, hair oil and tea. The pricing actions will be driven by elevated prices of key inputs such as palm oil (a key input for all three segments – F&B, personal care and home care), coffee, copra and wheat.

Operating profitability is expected to stay flat but healthy at 20-21% in fiscal 2026, after a 50-100 bps decline in fiscal 2025. All said, credit profiles of FMCG companies are expected to remain stable.

A Crisil Ratings study of 82 FMCG companies, accounting for a third of the sector’s estimated Rs 5.9 lakh crore revenue this fiscal, indicates as much.

The urban segment accounts for ~60% of revenue and rural markets the rest. By category, food and beverages generates nearly half of the sector’s revenue, and personal care and home care a quarter each. 

High food inflation, elevated interest rates and sluggish wage growth impacted urban consumption across segments in fiscal 2025, with personal care and certain F&B sections taking a bigger hit. Rural volume has recovered and outpaced urban in the past few quarters after another spell of adequate monsoon.

Anuj Sethi, Senior Director, Crisil Ratings, said, “We expect a modest recovery in volume as moderating food inflation, easing interest rates and tax relief measures announced in the Union Budget for next fiscal encourage urban demand. Rural demand will grow steadily given continuing allocation to welfare schemes^ and a hike in minimum support prices.”

Apart from the macro factors, traditional FMCG companies have had to contend with rising competition. Regional and local companies have been gaining with consumers downtrading to lower-priced brands. Besides, rising preference for digital channels has opened distribution avenues on a much larger scale for D2C companies.

Aditya Jhaver, Director, Crisil Ratings, says, “On their part, traditional FMCG companies have been taking steps to push growth. Apart from seeking D2C brand acquisitions and increasing digital advertising to push premium products, they have introduced affordable packs and increased distribution reach across hinterland. With quick commerce now accounting for ~30% of the e-commerce channel, companies have been introducing exclusive packs for such platforms. These measures are gradually enabling traditional FMCG companies to withstand competitive intensity.”

Despite the modest revenue growth, the credit profiles of FMCG companies in the Crisil Ratings portfolio remain stable, supported by their healthy cash generating ability, strong balance sheets and sizeable liquid surpluses.

Going ahead, input price, monsoon and utilisation of higher disposable incomes by households will bear watching.

^ - Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS); Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY):

For FY26, the allocation has increased by 23.7% on-year as per budget documents.

*- This is lower than Crisil Ratings estimate of 7-9% for fiscal 2025 owing to subdued urban demand. Please refer the link of the previous press release:

https://www.crisilratings.com/en/home/newsroom/press-releases/2024/07/fmcg-sector-to-see-revenue-growth-of-7-9-percent-this-fiscal.html

Hindustan Unilever Reportedly in Talks to Acquire Minimalist for ~$350 Mn

FMCG giant Hindustan Unilever (HUL) is reportedly in talks to acquire the direct-to-consumer (D2C) beauty brand Minimalist for around Rs 3,000 crore (approximately $350 million). This move is part of HUL's strategy to diversify into high-margin segments, especially in the digital space.

Minimalist, known for its skincare, body care, and hair care products, has seen significant revenue growth and profitability recently.

HUL is considering acquiring a majority stake, but it could potentially lead to a 100% acquisition. Minimalist has raised funding from institutional investors such as Peak XV Partners, Unilever Ventures, and Twenty Nine Capital Partners. Peak XV Partners is the brand's largest investor.

The founders, Rahul Yadav and Mohit Yadav, collectively own nearly 84% of the company, while Peak XV Partners holds a 6% stake.

HUL has previously invested in other digital-first brands like Oziva and Wellbeing Nutrition.

Minimalist has seen impressive growth, with its revenue jumping 86% to Rs 350 crore in FY24, and its profit doubling to Rs 10.8 crore. In FY22, it reported a profit of Rs 16 crore on a revenue of Rs 112 crore.

This development reflects the ongoing consolidation trend in the consumer goods industry.

This acquisition could mark another instance of a fast-growing online D2C brand being acquired by a large enterprise, reflecting the ongoing consolidation trend in the consumer goods industry.

Of late, there were few D2C brands that have been acquired by FMCG giants. Marico has been quite aggressive in its D2C acquisition strategy. The company acquired men's grooming startup Beardo, health foods company True Elements, beauty brand Just Herbs, and plant-based products brand Plix. These acquisitions have helped Marico diversify its portfolio and tap into the growing D2C market.

Emami has also entered the D2C segment by acquiring The Man Company and acquired 19% equity stake in D2C nutrition firm TruNative F&B Pvt Ltd. These acquisitions are part of Emami's strategy to compete with emerging D2C brands and expand its presence in the personal care market.

Adani to Completely Exit Adani Wilmar JV, Sells Shares for $2 Bn

Wilmar International has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire a significant stake in Adani Wilmar Limited. Specifically, Lence Pte. Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Wilmar International, will acquire up to 31.06% of the existing paid-up equity share capital of Adani Wilmar.

Additionally, Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL) will divest about 13% of its shares in Adani Wilmar to meet minimum public shareholding requirement.

This move will allow AEL to completely exit its 44% holding in Adani Wilmar, and the proceeds from the sale will be used to boost investments in core infrastructure platforms like energy, utility, transport, and logistics.

The proceeds from the sale of Adani Enterprises' stake in Adani Wilmar, estimated to be over USD 2 billion, will be used to boost investments in core infrastructure areas like energy, utilities, transport, logistics, and other important sectors.

The financials of Adani Wilmar Limited are quite impressive. As of December 27, 2024, the market value of Adani Wilmar was approximately Rs 42,785 crores ($5 billion). In the first half of the fiscal year 2024-25, Adani Wilmar reported an 18% year-on-year revenue growth to ₹14,460 crore and a highest ever half-yearly Profit After Tax (PAT) of ₹624 crore.

However, in FY24, the company's EBITDA was down by 29% due to market factors and challenges in Bangladesh, where it is the largest edible oil company.

All Indian Salt and Sugar Brands, Packaged or Unpackaged, Contain Micro Plastics - Study

A recent study by the environmental research organization Toxics Link revealed that all tested Indian salt and sugar brands, whether packaged or unpackaged, contain microplastics.

The study, titled "Microplastics in Salt and Sugar" and conducted by the environmental research organisation Toxics Link, examined 10 varieties of salt-as well as five varieties of sugar, procured from both online and local markets.

The findings disclosed the presence of microplastics in all tested samples of salt and sugar, manifesting in various forms such as fibres, pellets, films, and fragments. These microplastics ranged in size from 0.1 mm to 5 mm.

Notably, iodised salt exhibited the highest concentration of microplastics, primarily in the form of multi-coloured thin fibres and films.

The study analyzed 10 types of salt (including table salt, rock salt, sea salt, and local raw salt) and five types of sugar purchased from both online and local markets. These microplastics were found in various forms, including fibers, pellets, films, and fragments, with sizes ranging from 0.1 mm to 5 mm. The much over-hyped iodized salt had the highest concentration of microplastics (89.15 pieces per kilogram), while organic rock salt had the lowest (6.70 pieces per kilogram). This discovery underscores the need for comprehensive research into the long-term health impacts of microplastics on human health, as these tiny plastic particles can enter our bodies through food, water, and air.

The potential health risks of consuming microplastics are a growing concern. Although research is ongoing, below are some known and suspected effefood. 
1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Microplastics can accumulate in the digestive tract, potentially causing irritation, inflammation, and disruption of gut microbiota.

2. Toxic Chemicals: Microplastics can absorb and release toxic chemicals (such as phthalates and bisphenol A) that may leach into the body upon ingestion.

3. Immune System Impact: Exposure to microplastics might affect immune responses, althoLgh the exact mechanisms are not fully understood.

4. Organ Damage: Some studies suggest that microplastics could harm organs like the liver, kidneys, and lungs.

5. Cancer Risk: While not definitively proven, there's concern that long-term exposure to microplastics could increase cancer risk.

It is to be noted that minimizing plastic use and supporting sustainable practices can help reduce microplastic pollution.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken swift action in response to the alarming findings from the study by Toxics Link.

In March 2024, FSSAI launched an ambitious project titled “Micro-and Nano-Plastics as Emerging Food Contaminants: Establishing Validated Methodologies and Understanding the Prevalence in Different Food Matrices.”

On August 18, 2024, FSSAI then launched an innovative project to address the growing concern of microplastic contamination in Indian food. The project aims to develop and validate analytical methods for detecting micro and nano-plastics in various food products. It also assesses their prevalence and exposure levels in India.

FSSAI collaborates with leading research institutions across the country, including the CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (Lucknow), ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (Kochi), and the Birla Institute of Technology and Science (Pilani).

The project focuses on developing standard protocols for micro/nano-plastic analysis, conducting intra- and inter-laboratory comparisons, and generating critical data on microplastic exposure levels among consumers.

While global studies highlight the presence of microplastics in various foods, this project specifically generates reliable data for India. It will guide the formulation of effective regulations and safety standards to protect public health.

The project aims to:

• Develop Detection Methods: FSSAI is working on standard protocols to detect micro and nano-plastics in food items. 
• Assess Prevalence: By assessing the prevalence and exposure levels of these harmful particles, FSSAI aims to improve food safety across India.
• Establish Safety Standards: The initiative focuses on understanding the prevalence of microplastics in different food matrices, which are the materials that make up the food products we consume.

This proactive step by FSSAI underscores the gravity of microplastic contamination and its potential health risks.

LTIMindtree and Aforza Setup Virtual Training Academy

LTIMindtree's partnership with Aforza goes beyond just offering Aforza's solutions. To ensure successful implementation and maximize client benefit, LTIMindtree has established a dedicated Aforza Training Academy. This virtual academy, led by Aforza's Customer Success Enablement team, focuses on training and certifying a team of LTIMindtree consultants into Aforza experts. 

This academy is a strategic investment for both companies. LTIMindtree gains a team with deep understanding of Aforza's CRM and TPM solutions, specifically designed for the Consumer Products industry. This will allow LTIMindtree to deliver superior service and drive digital transformation for their clients in this sector [3]. Aforza, on the other hand, benefits from a wider reach through LTIMindtree's established network and expertise in digital transformation.

Overall, this partnership with the Aforza Training Academy at its core is a win-win for both companies, enabling them to empower Consumer Product businesses with cutting-edge solutions and industry-specific knowledge.

This collaboration aims to empower businesses to grow profitably and safeguard margins through comprehensive omnichannel pricing control. It will enable access to real-time data insights, enhancing planning and decision-making capabilities. Additionally, the partnership promises to boost field productivity throughout the value chain by delivering a world-class user experience. With industry-specific offline mobile apps, professionals can work from anywhere, ensuring flexibility and efficiency. 

The initiative will also focus on increasing distribution, availability, stock accuracy, and fulfilment rates. Furthermore, it will provide robust measures to manage compliance issues effectively and prevent fraud, ensuring a secure and compliant operational environment.

Overall, this partnership with the Aforza Training Academy at its core is a win-win for both companies, enabling them to empower Consumer Product businesses with cutting-edge solutions and industry-specific knowledge.

Aforza is a software company founded in 2019 that offers a cloud-based solution called the Consumer Goods Industry Cloud. This platform is designed specifically to address the needs of businesses in the Consumer Goods industry. It goes beyond a simple CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system, also encompassing Trade Promotion Management (TPM) functionalities.

Aforza is built on the Salesforce and Google Cloud Platforms which means they can scale fast and deliver continuous innovation with 3 releases a year. It offers a suite of tools that tackle various aspects of sales and planning for Consumer Goods companies.  

Tata Consumer Products to Acquire Two Big Brands – Organic India and Capital Foods, Owner of 'Ching’s Secret' and 'Smith & Jones'

One of the companies of Tata Group, Tata Consumer Products Ltd (TCPL), has announced that it has signed definitive agreements to acquire two big brands under FMCG category — Capital Foods and Organic India.

For Capital Foods, TCPL has signed definitive agreements to acquire 100% equity shares of the company, which owns brands like ‘Ching’s Secret’ and ‘Smith & Jones’.

TCPL will acquire Capital Foods in a phased manner. 75% of the equity shareholding will be acquired upfront and the balance 25% shareholding will be acquired within the next 3 years.

For Organic India, which is a FabIndia-owned brand, TCPL will acquire up to 100% of the issued equity share capital of the company that is known for its organic herbal and Ayurvedic health products. The acquisition of Organic India will create a Health & Wellness platform for Tata Consumer Products.

Launched in 1995 by Ajay Gupta, Capital Foods has strong umbrella platform brands with a portfolio of unique products for in-home consumption in fast growing categories. Capital Foods' Ching’s Secret is a market leader in Desi Chinese across its product categories - Chutneys, Blended Masalas, Sauces and Soups. Smith & Jones is a fast-growing brand catering to in-home cooking of Italian and other western cuisines. Overall, Capital Foods has #1 or #2 positions in five large categories.

The overall size of the categories in which Capital Foods operates in is estimated at ₹ crores. Structural growth drivers for the category include continued growth in income levels, evolving consumer preferences leading to increased salience of global cuisines in in-home cooking and increasing need for convenience.

The acquisition of Capital Foods will enable Tata Consumer Products to expand its product portfolio and further strengthen its pantry platform. There are significant synergy benefits with the existing businesses of Tata Consumer Products in areas spanning distribution, logistics, exports and overheads.

Ajay Gupta, Founder of Capital Foods said, “To be associated with the iconic Tata Group is a dream come true for me. Just the name, ‘Tata’, instils a sense of trust and pride in every Indian. Like Capital Foods, Tata is a home-grown brand that is globally recognised. Tata Consumer Products is a multi-conglomerate that spans the globe with quality food ingredients and products. In 28 years, from 3 bottles of sauces, to an entire ‘Desi Chinese’ cuisine block, Ching’s Secret has become a brand to be reckoned with. Smith & Jones covers another food block with tremendous potential. Together, Tata and Capital Foods can create a multi-national culinary brand that includes multiple food categories. The journey ahead is going to be a giant leap for us, full of endless possibilities and definitely exhilarating!”

Kotak Investment Banking and Khaitan & Co have been TCPL’s exclusive financial and legal advisors on Capital Foods' acquisition transaction, respectively.

About Organic India, it is a 25+ years established brand with a geographical footprint covering over 48 countries, substantially from India and the USA. Its product portfolio spans premium and high growth categories focused on sustainable living - Herbal Supplements, Tea & Infusions and Organic Packaged Foods.

Founded in 1997 by couple Bharat Mitra and Bhavani Lev, Organic India has strong, long standing relationships with 12,000+ farmers and unparalleled end to end organic certifications across the supply chain. It pioneered commercial cultivation of tulsi and introduced high value medicinal crops for farming in India. It has a portfolio of over 100 products in the Health & Wellness space.

The Total Addressable Market for the categories that Organic India at present is ₹ 7,000 crores in India and ₹ 75,000 crores in international markets where Tata Consumer has a strong presence. This acquisition will provide significant synergy benefits in distribution, logistics and overheads apart from driving portfolio premiumization and unlocking additional channels and new markets. Structural growth drivers for this portfolio include increasing demand for Health & Wellness products, growing consumer awareness around wellness and changing consumer preferences

For Organic India, Kotak Investment Banking, Trilegal and Sidley Austin have been TCPL’s exclusive financial and legal advisors for the transaction respectively.

Mr. William Bissell, Managing Director of Fabindia said, “Tata is India’s most venerated and dynamic brand. For over a hundred and fifty years, it has stood as the visionary exemplar of Indian values: fairness, preservation of civilizational traditions, harmony with the natural world, and social uplift for all. That is why we are immensely excited that they will be guiding Organic India through its next chapter and stewarding the vital mission for which Organic India stands.

We at Fabindia echo Jamsetji Tata’s vision that ‘The community is not just another stakeholder in business but is in fact the very purpose of its existence.’ Organic India works with a community of tens of thousands of farmers who work only with socially and ecologically sustainable methods. We are confident that Organic India will continue to thrive with the Tatas’ leadership.”

Coca-Cola Launches Its Marketplace on ONDC – 'Coke Shop'

American beverage giant Coca-Cola's India unit has announced that it has joined the government-initiated Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), while also launching its own marketplace, the 'Coke Shop', on the platform.

The initial association with ONDC is being supported through SellerApp, which will help the company leverage the ONDC network with its data-driven insights, market intelligence, and strategies.

“Through the ‘Coke Shop’ marketplace model, Coca-Cola is benefitting retailers by enabling them with another channel to sell their products whilst simultaneously facilitating multiple touchpoints for consumers to purchase from. Retailers who have not been able to access major e-commerce platforms will now have an opportunity to regain customers and cater to a wider audience,” the beverage major said in a statement.

The company joins a slew of FMCG companies that have come onboard ONDC. The other FMCG brands that have joined ONDC include Hindustan Unilever, Polycab,Me n Moms, Mama feast, BRBChips, Ustraa, Sublime, Fackelman, Keventer, Brill, Hyderabad Foods, Healthkart, Nourish Mantra, Buy One Gram, Selzer, and Dugar Oversees.

Coca-Cola rival PepsiCo had already joined ONDC in August this year.

Coca-Cola's bottling partner in India, Moon Beverages Limited, will be the ‘Network Participant’ for its offerings on the platform, ensuring consumers have seamless access to its beverage portfolio, said the company in a release.

"We are happy to see Coca-Cola join onto our network on this transformative journey and give consumers an exceptional shopping experience while offering expanded choices for buyers on the network,” said T Koshy, managing director and chief executive officer, ONDC.

Coca Cola India currently has a strong network of close to ~ 4 million retail outlets across the country.

Amid Competition from Smaller QSR Outlets, Domino's Slashed Pizza Prices by 50%

Image ~ Vecteezy

American multinational pizza restaurant chain, Domino's, has made a price-cuts in its large pizzas range, by up to 50%. According to news reports, competition in the pizza segment has increased rapidly due to smaller homegrown outlets like Laziz Pizza, Tosin, Instapizza, Gopizza, Leo's Pizzeria, Mojo Pizza, Ovenstory and La Pinoza.

Customers — working-out to sweat (pun intended) —  can now enjoy their favorite large vegetarian pizzas for just Rs 499, a significant discount from their former price of Rs 799. While, non-vegetarian pizza lovers may now get large pizzas for a tempting price of Rs 549, a substantial reduction from the prior price of Rs 919.

This price cut from Domino's comes at time of ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup.

The price cut by Domino's Pizza is certainly a reflection of the rapidly increasing competition in the FMCG sector wherein local companies are increasingly challenging big brands and companies. These companies have even gone ahead of the big companies in some markets.

Domino's is now working on a strategy to cut prices in the Quick Service Business (QSR) market in India. According to news running in the media, on September 4, Domino's decided to cut the prices large pizzas by sending a message to its customers.

Big multinational brande like Domino's, Burger King, Pizza Hut and KFC had faced a decline in sales due to increasing competition resulting in price cuts by these big brands. Pizza Hut is currently targeting cities with a population of more than 10 lakh. Pizza Hut has reduced the price of its Flavor Fun from Rs 200 to Rs 79. The share of local players in India's pizza market is about 30%.

Homegrown Pizza outlets form 30% of the total pizza outlets in India. A cut-throat competition and a cluttered pizza market made Domino's to witness a 74% decline in Y-o-Y net profit during the first three months of FY24.

Tata Consumer Products Enters Energy Drink Category, Launches ₹10 'Say Never' Energy Drink

Tata Consumer Products (TCP), the consumer products company of the Tata Group, has announced a bold entry into the fast growing "Energy Drink" category with the launch of Say Never Energy Drink.

Say Never Energy Drink, to be available in two variants — Red and Blue, is priced at an affordable price tag of ₹10 for a 200 ml cup format.

In the initial phase of the launch, Say Never Energy Drink will be available at retail outlets in Karnataka and North markets.

No other detailed information is available publicly such as ingredients/composition of the drink, amount of caffeine, and the energy drink's cup's material etc. 

The energy drink from the Tata is likely to directly compete with Red Bull, Rockstar, Pure Zero, Shashan Total Body Fuel Peach-Fizz Energy Drink and Zippfizz. However, these are priced at higher value (ranging from ₹20 to ₹125) compare to Say Never Energy Drink of TCP. Though, quantity in millilitres vary for different brands. 

As per definition by Scottish government, Energy drinks are beverages that contain high levels of caffeine in combination with other ingredients such as sugar and stimulant properties such as guarana, taurine or herbal substances.

Speaking about the new launch, Mr. Vikram Grover, MD NourishCo Beverages Limited, Tata Consumer Products said, “With this launch we aim to inspire and energize the doers, the dreamers, and the go-getters of the world. Say Never Energy Drink is not just a beverage; it's a symbol of empowerment, a companion for those who dare to be different. The launch strengthens & complements the overall product portfolio for NourishCo and through this we are celebrating the heroes who carve their own paths. This affordable caffeine-based energy drink is for the young masses and with this we are here to fuel their journey."

Earlier in June, Gurgaon-based NourishCo, which is a Tata Consumer Products Limited (TCPL) subsidiary, introduced Tata Coffee Cold Brew as part of its strategy to expand its functional beverages segment.

Tata Consumer Products Limited is a focused consumer products company uniting the principal food and beverage interests of the Tata Group under one umbrella. The Company’s portfolio of products includes tea, coffee, water, RTD, salt, pulses, spices, ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat offerings, breakfast cereals, snacks and mini meals.

Coffee Vending Machine Prices: Factors to Consider Before Making A Purchase Decision

In today's world, where people live on the go, coffee vending machines have become common in offices, hotels and public spaces, satisfying the constantly increasing desire for a convenient caffeine boost. Choosing the ideal machine for your office can be daunting due to the increasing options and factors influencing the vending machine's overall cost. Price being at the centre of it all, you need to purchase a coffee machine that will maintain your budget and is also suited for the purpose.

While the initial coffee vending machine price usually matters most, other financial aspects of the purchase will significantly impact the machine's value and its long-term cost-effectiveness. By evaluating these price factors, you can find the perfect machine for your workforce while also making a wise investment for your bottom line.

Initial Cost of the Machine

When thinking about buying a coffee vending machine, the initial cost usually comes to mind. The initial coffee machine price can vary significantly depending on the machine's features, size, brand, capacity and overall quality. High-end coffee vending machines with advanced features and larger capacities tend to have higher price tags.

Before finalising your purchase decision, it is essential to consider your workforce's specific coffee needs. It is best to compare prices across different dealers, manufacturers, and suppliers to find the best price accommodation for affordability and functionality. While on the lookout, please remember that a lower-priced coffee vending machine for the office may be tempting to purchase. Ensure it meets your operational and quality requirements.

Operation Expenses

When evaluating the coffee vending machine price, it is crucial to consider the operating expenses. These include coffee beans, milk, cups, condiments, lids and other necessary supplies. Some coffee vending machines require specific proprietary supplies that are more expensive than generic alternatives.

Consider the volume of coffee you anticipate serving, and calculate the ongoing expenses. Additionally, you need to consider any special requirements like water filtration systems, waste disposal and energy use. All these contribute to the operating costs. Evaluating these will help you determine the total cost of ownership over time and make an informed decision.

Maintenance and Service Costs

Coffee vending machines for offices require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Consider the ongoing costs of filter replacements, repairs and cleaning supplies when evaluating the buying price. Familiarise yourself with the manufacturer's recommendations regarding machine care intervals and procedures.

Taking all recommendations will help you factor in all expenses in the overall budget and evaluate the long-term cost-effectiveness of the machine. Some coffee vending machines may require professional servicing and technical support. These can incur additional expenses.

The Vending Machine's Scalability

To expand your office, you must also expand your coffee vending operations. Consider the machine's scalability as part of the coffee vending machine price. Go for models that are easy to upgrade or integrate into a larger coffee vending machine without incurring significant additional costs.

The scalability of the machine allows you to adapt to the increasing demand of your office coffee needs and avoid the option for a complete overhaul or replacement as your business grows. This factor saves you money in the long run and smoothly transition when expanding your operations.

Warranty and Support from the Manufacturer

When purchasing a coffee vending machine for the office, it's crucial to check for the warranty period offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period indicates the manufacturer's confidence in the machine's quality, putting your mind at peace because the manufacturer will cover the repair or replacement costs in case of malfunctions or defects within the warranty period.

Additionally, consider the level of support and maintenance services the manufacturer offers. Some offer extended support, readily available spare parts, or technical support. You can value these for the smooth operation of the machine.

Resale Value of the Machine

While this is never an immediate concern when purchasing a coffee vending machine, it is worth considering the potential resale value of the equipment anyway. Some models or brands hold better value than others in the used vending machine market. Assess the reputation of the coffee vending machine you intend to get and its market demand for used machines.

You get a clear estimate of the potential resale value. This factor is usually relevant only if you anticipate replacing or upgrading your coffee vending machine for the office in the future. Equipment with a good resale value can provide a higher return on investment and help offset the cost of a new machine or an upgrade.

As you search for the perfect coffee vending machine, it is crucial to approach this decision with a comprehensive understanding of all the price factors involved. While the initial cost is crucial, considering the service expenses, operation costs, maintenance, energy efficiency, and many others is equally vital. These will ensure you make the right decision that balances your budget with your desire for a reliable, cost-effective coffee vending experience. Remember, a well-researched purchase will satisfy your workspace coffee needs and leave you with financial peace of mind.

10 Indian Lifestyle Brands That Are Here With Unique Offerings!

Lifestyle brands work to create an emotional link between the goods or services they offer with a particular lifestyle perception. It was earlier limited to clothing stuff, drinks, or perhaps food, but now the very category of lifestyle products is wider with the digital spread. Not just is this trend redefining daily choices and consumer behaviour but also catching on faster than expected. Right from how a person avails a product or a service to adopting new healthcare options. It will be safe to say that with a little more time, we might be able to completely cut the connection with the age-old approach and methods.

Here is the list of some Indian brands with distinctive and unique offerings: -

Avni

The start-up has developed environmentally friendly items like cotton disposable pads and reusable, organic sanitary pads. This company is revolutionizing how women experience their menstrual cycles. Women's perceptions of safety are changing thanks to their awareness of goods, which are influenced by both modern science and Ayurveda. Sujata Pawar and Apurv Agarwal founded Avni in 2020, the startup has been named Avni, which means Earth as a symbolic womanly personification of the mother of all life which offers cutting-edge and environmentally friendly period care products like sanitary pads and panty liners. Their products are washable, reusable, and environmentally safe.

Yes Madam

Yes Madam is India's Most Affordable Home Salon and a tech-enabled platform for beauty and wellness that brings salon and spa services to customers' homes. With over 1 million+ customers, 2000+ beauty professionals, and a presence across 35+ cities of India, the home salon brand strives to be the one-stop-Salon and Spa for a consumer. Yes Madam, India's Leading Salon at Home, was established in 2016 by Mayank and Aditya Arya and is currently operating in over 30 Indian cities. The brand has significantly impacted the beauty and salon industry with its mono-dosages and unique pricing model that starts at RS 6 per minute. Their goal is to provide top-notch salon and wellness services at clients' homes using top-notch personnel and industry-leading goods.

HotNot

Hotnot is the first-ever fashion social media platform where users can dictate fashion trends and save their favorites. It was founded in 2021 by Frederick Devarampati. With in-house styling tips and recommendations from fashion creators, Hotnot offers a new and convenient online shopping experience. From following the latest trends to shopping for your favorite looks by creators and influencers you love, this app is designed to give you the power to not just follow those trends but also to dictate them.

Zouk

Bringing together the contemporary and the traditional, Zouk weaves subtle elegance into your lifestyle. Handcrafted, Cruelty-free, and Proudly Indian, Zouk brings vibrant Indian culture to the modern world. Zouk is a proud Indian and 100% vegan brand founded by Disha Singh. The company manufactures laptop bags, handbags, women's office bags, female wallets, small wallets, sling bags, bucket bags, backpacks, and travel pouches for both sexes. They also produce vegan leather purses and other vegan items out of Ikat and Jute Khadi fabrics where expert craftspeople make each bag individually. They exclusively sell online and offer to ship to every part of India. Office workers, stay-at-home moms, and college students can all benefit from choosing the products.

Aastey

Aastey is a size-inclusive sustainable activewear brand for all women. From creating India’s first sustainable and size-inclusive leggings to reaching a community of more than 60,00+ women across cities, Aastey is making waves in the athleisure space.

Launched amid the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, Mumbai-based Aastey is the country’s first D2C (direct-to-consumer) startup to crack the manufacturing of recycled polyester apparel, according to its founders. The startup offers a wide range of options from leggings and sports bras, to yoga mats, eye masks, tote bags, and more. A Sanskrit word, Aastey means to be fully present in every moment. Apart from its own website, it also sells on Amazon and Myntra.

Nicobar

Nicobar is a contemporary lifestyle brand that combines Indian aesthetics with modern design. They offer a range of clothing, home decor, and travel accessories inspired by nature, simplicity, and comfort. Nicobar is a brand that focuses on well-designed products that channel the modern Indian way of living, harmoniously blending form with functionality, and creativity with culture.

The brand has engaged with local artisans and the design community to build a contemporary product line across fashion, home, and travel accessories. Their products fall within the verticals of house & home, men’s fashion, women’s fashion, accessories, and jewellery. Within these, some of the items on offer are dining, barware, décor, dresses, and overlays for women, saris, and dupattas, kurtas and jackets for men, trousers, scarves, clutches, pins and brooches, and silver jewellery among others.

Tjori

Tjori is an Indian brand that focuses on promoting traditional craftsmanship and sustainable practices. They offer a wide range of clothing, accessories, skincare, and home decor products inspired by Indian heritage and crafted by artisans. Tjori was launched online in 2012 and retails from its dedicated e-commerce site as well as its Instagram Shop.

Tjori is a multi-category, online-first artisanal ethnic brand that includes apparel, wellness, home, and mother and child products. The brand focuses on handmade products and the goodness of traditional Indian ingredients. The brand retails a range of womenswear such as kurtas, dresses, and tops as well as footwear, bags, accessories, jewellery, children’s wear, and home décor.

At present, Tjori caters to 195 countries across the globe through digital marketing and its e-commerce website. They help deliver the orders through our courier service partner, FedX.

The Mad Dresser

The Mad Dresser founded in 2020 offers an online personal shopping and styling service for women. They provide a new convenient way of shopping. Founded by the sister trio Tanvi Gupta, Vanshika Gupta, and Prachi Gupta with its headquarters in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, and following the B2C business model. The TMD Box is a surprise box of Western wear delivered at your doorstep. It is curated by their team of in-house stylists. They select clothes based on your preferences from hundreds of brands and thousands of styles. They pick items for you that would suit your body type and help you move out of your comfort zone. They are here to make shopping simpler, easier, and immersive.

Stumbl

Launched in December 2022 by Maruthy Ramgandhi, Ayyappan Lakshmanan, and Abhishekk Handa, the company claims to have served more than 10,000 young women to date, with 20 percent becoming repeat customers. The company’s vision is to be the No.1 fashion platform for women of today. A platform that will give them the fastest and most reliable access to the latest fashion trends. Building this new, highly engaged shopping experience with social interaction at its core, providing our users with shoppable mood boards. Think of Instagram or Pinterest with shop-as-you-scroll functionality that marries discovery and commerce.

HeSpoke Originals

Founded in 2020 by Prem Shah & Sonal Jain, the fastest fast-fashion D2C menswear brand fulfilling a need for constant newness. We launch new Styles Designed Digitally in Metaverse Technology, Faster & Guilt-Free. With a robust design-to-sales cycle of 300 hrs, we've faster market validation. HeSpoke is launching new styles every 300 hours. Having an edge over others by reduced time to market, faster market validation, increased product innovation, and a smaller environmental footprint. There will be a time when what you see at the fashion ramp today would be available to shop at HeSpoke within minutes.

Soptle Raises $1 Mn in Pre-Seed Funding Led By Kube VC and We Founder Circle

Soptle raises $1 million in pre-seed funding

Funding round led by Kube VC, We Founder Circle, Iceland Venture Studio (IVS)

Soptle, India's first SaaS-led B2B marketplace for FMCG manufacturers and retailers, today announced it has closed a $1 million pre-seed investment in its latest funding round. The round is led by Kube VC along with We Founder Circle. This round also saw participation from Iceland Venture Studio (IVS), Nyra Ventures and founders of Dunzo, Jar, Bijak, and Managing partner of Rocketship.vc. Existing investors – Kube VC and Dunzo founder Ankur Agarwal – are also participating in the funding round.

The pre-seed funding will power Soptle’s expansion of the retailer-network reach and manufacturing-partner footprint across India, with new product offerings and technology enhancement.

Pravas Chandragiri, Founder - Soptle

Soptle was founded in 2021 by Pravas Chandragiri, then a 19-year-old high school graduate, who decided to become an entrepreneur instead of joining college. Based on his own experience of working in a kirana store in Balasore, Odisha, Pravas started Soptle with the goal of empower the 8+ million regional FMCG manufacturers and retailers across India. The startup helps FMCG manufacturers better serve the existing supply chains by providing access to procurement, production, demand generation, distribution, cash collection, and reconciliation. By digitizing and incentivizing the FMCG manufacturer, Soptle has become a one-stop marketplace for the FMCG community.

According to Pravas Chandragiri, the 20-year-old CEO & Founder of Soptle, “When I started Soptle, my aim was to help the humble kirana store owner in small towns and cities. I never had any doubt about both the idea behind Soptle and India’s untapped potential. Our team has worked hard to make this idea grow, and the pre-seed round is a validation of our efforts. The pre-seed round is another step towards many new milestones. I am thankful to both the Soptle team and the investors for their partnership and passion.”

“Pravas, at such a young age, has created a business model that encapsulates our view on how technology can connect various manufacturers to improve the distribution while also building scalable, defensible and profitable business models. We are encouraged by the traction achieved for their manufacturers-led market linkage,” said Neeraj Tyagi, Founder, We Founder Circle.

According to Kube VC: “With this innovative, tech-led, manufacturer-centric and distribution-first model, Soptle has set out on a journey to create a next generation B2B commerce platform that increases value realization and income for manufactures. Soptle enables manufacturers better access to market and distribution of their product using Soptle’s tech infrastructure.”

Soptle closed two angel rounds in 2022. With the latest pre-seed round, the startup has cumulatively raised $1.4 million from Kube VC, We Founder Circle, Iceland Venture Studio, Nyra Ventures, and founders and CXOs of Dunzo, Jar, Bijak, Gati, Google, and All-Cargo Group.

About Soptle

Soptle is the brainchild of then-19-year-old, Pravas Chandragiri, who comes from the small town of Balasore in Odisha. After graduating from high school, Pravas decided to pursue entrepreneurship rather than take admission in a college.

Founded in 2021, the Gurugram-based Startup is India's first SaaS-led B2B FMCG commerce platform that enables FMCG manufacturers to digitize their workflow, day-to-day activities, conduct their existing business in a more efficient manner, and also increase sales to retailers in other geographies by enhancing their utilization capacity. Soptle's investors include founders and CXOs from Dunzo, Jar, Gati, Google, All-Cargo Group, and Kube VC, We Founder Circle, Iceland Venture Studio, and Nyra Ventures.

 

Hardik Pandya Invests in Consumer Foods Brand “Yu”

Chef Crafted Instant Foods brand Yu announced Hardik Pandya as investor and brand ambassador today. Hardik and Yu have entered into a long-term association to promote the brand in India as well as overseas.

Founded by Bharat Bhalla and Varun Kapur, Yu is making packaged foods healthier by providing consumers easy meals that are made using 100% natural ingredients and contain absolutely ZERO preservatives! The brand offers 14 SKUs across Pasta, Cup Noodles, Hakka Noodles, Oats and Halwa categories that can be made in 5 minutes by simply using boiling water. The homegrown brand recently closed its Series A fundraise, led by Ashish Kacholia and Asian Paints Family in October 2022.

Yu will launch its maiden brand campaign during the IPL 2023 season. The campaign will be spearheaded by ace Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya and will focus on highlighting Yu’s brand proposition - packaged foods that are CHEF Crafted made using ZERO Preservatives that allow young and aspiring Indians to not compromise on Health, Quality, Taste or Convenience! Yu offers healthier EASY Meals that are not only 100% Natural but also retain their aroma, taste and nutrition despite being packaged.

Hardik Pandya said, “What Bharat and Varun have done at Yu is truly exceptional! To make packaged foods without any chemicals or preservatives that still taste as good as fresh is remarkable. Yu is a highly purpose driven brand that is bringing a revolution in the packaged food space through its diversified product categories. I am extremely pleased to associate with Yu and spread awareness around its wholesome and nutritious easy meals that are healthy as well. Proud to be part of this 100% Homegrown Brand – MAKE In INDIA for the World!”

Yu has successfully penetrated multiple distribution channels including offline stores (4,000+ stores), online (all e-Com and Q-Com servicing pan India), 100+ institutional campuses, exports (South Africa, US, Singapore) in a short span of 18 months. Owing to its unique product offering, Yu is also among the youngest brands to be onboarded by airlines SpiceJet and Akasa Air. Yu is seeing significant customer traction and has more than doubled its revenue in the last 6 months and is on track to sell close to 2 million bowls in Q1-FY24.

Sharing their excitement, Founders Bharat Bhalla and Varun Kapur jointly expressed, “We are excited to partner with Hardik in our endeavour to build a disruptive consumer brand in the instant food category. Hardik is a youth icon, and as the face of Yu, he will help drive awareness among consumers enabling a switch in consumption patterns from currently available products that contain chemicals and preservatives. Hardik Pandya's passion for health and wellness aligns perfectly with our brand's core values and mission. We are confident that Hardik’s association will allow Yu to significantly scale its business across all channels and target groups.”

Yu operates a 24,000 sq. ft. integrated facility in Gurugram that is UK FSSC 22000 and US-FDA certified. The brand has expanded its team to over 100 employees across functions like production, operations, sales, marketing and finance. After successfully launching Ready to Eat pastas, noodles, oats, halwa in veg and non veg variants, the company recently ventured into Ready to Cook products with the launch of Instant 5 mins Hakka Noodles that come with steamed noodles, vegetables, sauce and chilli oil. The brand is looking to launch 8-10 more unique products over the next 12 months to complement its existing product portfolio.

Yu has several prominent investors on its cap-table, including Ashish Kacholia (renowned public market investor), Manish Choksi (Asian Paints Promoter Group), DPIITs Start Up India Seed Fund (Government of India) and Capitar (SEBI registered AIF), among others. It has recently doubled its production capacity and continues to expand its omni channel distribution network pan-India.

About Yu

Yu Foodlabs has developed a range of 14 Chef Crafted Instant Foods that closely resemble freshly prepared foods! Developed using advanced lyophilisation technology, its range includes instant Pastas, Noodles, Halwas, Oats, Upma that are 100% Natural and contain ZERO Preservatives. Its products are available at 4,000+ offline stores and ALL online / quick commerce platforms like Blinkit, Swiggy Instamart, Amazon, Flipkart, Zepto, JioMart in addition to airlines like SpiceJet and Akasa. Its products are also available in select international markets like Singapore, South Africa and US.