Food
Kiko Live launches Tabe: India's first food-only buyer app on ONDC for affordable delivery
Kiko Live introduces Tabe, a new food ordering app on ONDC. Tabe focuses solely on food and beverages. It aims to offer affordability and transparency. The app lists brands like McDonald’s and KFC. Restaurants can save on commissions. Customers may get discounts. Tabe seeks to improve food accessibility. It also wants to provide a better experience for users and restaurants.
Investors hungry for stakes in India’s food and beverages sector
India's food and beverage sector is witnessing significant investor interest, with deals and discussions intensifying across QSRs and packaged food brands. Despite a consumption slowdown, established names like Theobroma and fast-growing players are attracting attention. Investors are keen on both established and emerging brands, anticipating growth driven by rising disposable incomes and evolving consumer preferences.
Graviss chairman moves high court over family settlement feud
Gaurav Ghai, chairman of Graviss Group, has petitioned the Bombay High Court against his father, Ravi Ghai, seeking arbitration over a family settlement agreement. The dispute centers on Graviss Hospitality (GHL), particularly Ravi Ghai's attempt to monetize shares initially valued at ₹25 crore but now worth ₹100 crore.
Purabi Dairy set to double its processing capacity to 3 lakh litres per day
Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma attended the Bhoomi Poojan ceremony for Purabi Dairy's expansion in Panjabari. This Rs 104 crore project, following an MoU with NDDB, will double milk processing capacity to 3 lakh litres daily.
Shajaeatan leads Rs 3,050cr stake buy in AWL Agri; Global funds join in
Shajaeatan Investment FZCO, based in Dubai, spearheaded the acquisition in AWL Agri Business. They secured 8.52% for ₹3,050 crore. Quant Mutual Fund and IDFC MF were among other buyers. Adani Commodities LLP divested its 10% stake for ₹3,732 crore. This marked Adani's complete exit from the FMCG company. The divestment aligns with Adani's strategic shift towards infrastructure development.
Healthy snacking brand Farmley aims to double revenue to Rs 600-700 cr in FY26
Farmley, the healthy snacking brand, anticipates its revenue to almost double, reaching Rs 600-700 crore in the current fiscal year, fueled by rising demand for nutritious snacks. The company plans to invest Rs 40-50 crore in a new factory near Noida to increase production capacity and aims to achieve profitability this year.
Investors gain big appetite for small consumer brands
Several regional consumer brands in India, including Iscon Balaji and Dermabay, are attracting private equity interest. Investors are pursuing minority stakes as larger rivals face sluggish demand. Recent funding deals involve brands like Khari Foods and Country Delight, indicating strong investor confidence in the growth potential of these smaller companies. Dermabay plans to raise ₹5-7 crore to expand and innovate.
PepsiCo reports growth in snacks business in India in Q2; beverages face challenges
PepsiCo's international convenient foods saw a 4% organic revenue increase in Q2 2025, driven by strong performances in India and other markets. While the International Beverages Franchise experienced a decline in India during the same period due to unseasonal rains, Pepsi gained market share in key regions like China and India.
LT Foods opens organic food facility in Rotterdam
LT Foods has inaugurated an organic food processing facility in Rotterdam, investing Rs 20 crore initially, to directly target European consumers. This move, through its Nature Bio Foods arm, complements existing B2B operations and aims to establish a traceable, climate-conscious organic supply chain.
Edible oil players may see 2-3 pc decline in revenue this fiscal: Crisil Ratings report
Edible oil refiners in India are projected to experience a revenue decline of 2-3% in FY26 due to lower prices, despite a volume increase of 2.8-3%. This dip in revenue will squeeze operating margins by 30-50 basis points. Stable working capital and reduced capital expenditure are expected to maintain stable credit profiles for these companies, according to Crisil Ratings.
Must Watch
SC directs FSSAI to implement Front-of-Pack nutrition labels on packaged foods
The Supreme Court of India has instructed FSSAI to implement front-of-pack nutrition labels on packaged foods, a move lauded by MP Milind Deora. This aims to empower consumers to make healthier choices and combat India's rising obesity rates. The Union Health Ministry also proposes displaying sugar and oil boards in public settings to promote healthier dietary habits.
Coke’s bottling partner HCCB names Mondelez South Asia president Hemant Rupani as new CEO
Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB) has appointed Hemant Rupani, previously with Mondelez South East Asia, as its new India CEO, effective September 8. Rupani succeeds Juan Pablo Rodriguez, who is transitioning to a different role within the Coca-Cola system. This change follows Jubilant Bhartia Group's acquisition of a 40% stake in HCCB for approximately Rs 12,500 crore.
FSSAI seeks more time for front-of-pack labelling rules
The FSSAI has requested the Supreme Court for a three-month extension to finalize front-of-pack labelling (FOPL) regulations, which aim to introduce pictorial warnings on packaged foods. This move follows a Supreme Court directive and seeks to provide consumers with clear information about potentially harmful ingredients like fats, salt, and sugar, addressing rising health concerns.
Homegrown private equity firm ChrysCapital scoops up bakery chain Theobroma in ₹2,410-crore deal
ChrysCapital is set to acquire a 90% stake in Theobroma Foods for ₹2,410 crore, purchasing from promoters and ICICI Venture, who invested in 2017. The deal, valuing Theobroma lower than initially sought, signals a revival in dining and cafe sector transactions. The bakery chain anticipates revenues of ₹525-550 crore in FY25.
Reliance Consumer launches Campa in Nepal; partners with Chaudhary Group
Reliance Consumer Products Ltd (RCPL) has introduced its Campa Cola soft drinks in Nepal, partnering with the Chaudhary Group for manufacturing and distribution. This launch marks RCPL's entry into Nepal, expanding its presence beyond India and the Middle East. The Campa portfolio in Nepal will feature various flavors, aiming to resonate with local consumers.
FSSAI asks food businesses not to file false, misleading annual returns
FSSAI emphasizes accuracy in annual returns. Food Business Operators must provide correct information. False data leads to penalties under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. FSSAI has provided a facility to revise submitted data. FBOs should use this to correct errors. Timely corrections are essential to avoid penalties. The regulator is serious about compliance for a safe food ecosystem.
