Bikaji Foods Bolstered Presence in Frozen Food Market: Acquired Controlling Stake in Ariba Foods

Bikaji Foods International Ltd., a renowned player in the Indian food industry, has strategically acquired a 55% equity stake in Ariba Foods Private Limited. Based in Ujjain, Ariba Foods is a prominent manufacturer of frozen snacks and foods, including samosas, naans, parathas, and sweets. This significant investment, valued at ₹60.49 crore, marks a strategic move for Bikaji as it seeks to bolster its frozen food production capabilities and expand its market reach.

The acquisition comes at a particularly opportune time, as the frozen food sector in India is experiencing rapid growth fueled by technological advancements. With a positive outlook for the industry, there is a growing emphasis on leveraging innovation to meet the rising consumer demand and expand market penetration. Intensive Softshare Private Limited, a Mumbai-based investor with a strong focus on the Indian consumer industry, has played a pivotal role as the sole syndicator and advisor for this strategic deal.

“We are thrilled to announce our acquisition of a 55% stake in Ariba Foods Private Limited,” said Mr Deepak Agarwal, Managing Director of Bikaji Foods International Limited. “This strategic move not only strengthens our capacity for export growth but also supports our entry into the QSR segment. By integrating Ariba’s state-of-the-art production capabilities, we aim to enhance our frozen snacks and savouries manufacturing.”

Mr Gaurav Baheti, Promoter of Ariba Foods Private Limited, remarked, “This acquisition marks an exciting milestone for Ariba Foods. With our advanced production facilities and export expertise, we are well-positioned to meet Bikaji’s production needs. Our strategic location and state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities will enable us to drive significant growth in the frozen food category together.”

About Bikaji Foods International

Bikaji Foods International is India’s third-largest ethnic snacks company and the leading producer of Bikaneri Bhujia, with an annual production of 41,369 tonnes in FY24. Since 1993, Bikaji has been revolutionising Indian snacks with innovative products.

About Ariba Foods Private Limited

Ariba Foods Private Limited, based in Ujjain, MP, manufactures and sells a variety of snacks under the “InDine” brand. The company also provides contract manufacturing services. With operations spanning manufacturing, marketing, distribution, and sales, Ariba offers a wide range of products, including snacks, savouries, and frozen foods such as samosas, naans, parathas, and sweets.

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