There is a growing interest in investing in consumer food brands in India, particularly in regional brands that offer authentic taste patterns specific to their areas. According to Pritha Jha, co-founder of Pioneer Legal, a law firm that has helped food brands raise capital, many investment activities are happening in cities like Nashik, Jaipur, and Udaipur. Jha notes that snack brands, in particular, have immense scope for scalability, and private equity firms are interested in investing in these brands, especially when the next generation of family-owned businesses is not interested in taking over.

Recent investments in consumer food brands include Motilal Oswal’s ₹330-crore investment in Bengaluru-based ready-to-eat sweets company Lal Sweets, Sixth Sense Ventures’ ₹100-crore deal for A91 Partners’ stake in Indore-based spice brand Pushp, and Jashvik Capital’s minority stake in Bharuch, Gujarat-based snacks firm Jabson’s Foods. The interest in food brands is reflected in the significant increase in funding, with $1.68 billion raised across 14 deals in 2025 so far, compared to $507 million in 2024 and $141 million in 2023.

The growth in the food industry is driven by the advent of e-commerce and quick commerce, which has democratized distribution, making it easier for brands to reach consumers. Most food brands generate a lot of cash and are largely profitable, making them attractive to investors. The entry barriers for new brands are high, and investors are prioritizing unit economics, making established brands with a resilient business model and in-house distribution infrastructure more appealing.

The opportunity to scale up regional brands is significant, with over 100 million households entering the middle-income category, and the food services market expected to grow at a CAGR of 10-11% through 2030. However, scaling up these brands can be challenging due to ongoing challenges such as intense competition, differences in tastes and consumer preferences across geographies, and high selling expenses to maintain presence in new markets.

Despite these challenges, private equity firms continue to invest in regional brands, with the aim of scaling them up and expanding their reach. The success of these investments will depend on the ability of the brands to adapt to new markets and consumer preferences, while maintaining their authenticity and unique selling proposition. With the right strategy and support, these regional brands can become national players, and the interest in investing in consumer food brands is expected to continue to grow.

Temasek, a Singaporean investment firm, is seeking approval from the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to acquire a 10% stake in Haldiram, a popular Indian snacks brand. Temasek has proposed to acquire the stake through a public market transaction, which is expected to value Haldiram at around ₹5,000 crore.

Haldiram is a well-known brand in India, famous for its lottery-style snack packets containing a mix of flavored snacks, and its diversified product portfolio, which includes biscuits, chocolates, and breakfast cereals. The brand has been around since 1982 and has a strong presence across various channels, including offline and online.

Temasek’s proposed acquisition of a 10% stake in Haldiram is part of its growth strategy, which focuses on investing in Indian companies with a strong potential for growth and scalability. Temasek has been expanding its presence in India, having already invested in companies such as Airtel, Bharti Enterprises, and Indian Hotels.

The CCI is expected to review the proposed transaction to determine whether it will have an adverse impact on competition in the Indian market. The regulator’s approval is required under the Competition Act, 2002, as the proposed acquisition will result in Temasek holding a significant stake in Haldiram.

The move is likely to benefit both parties. Haldiram will gain access to Temasek’s expertise and network, which will help the company expand its reach and scale up its operations. Temasek, on the other hand, will gain a foothold in the Indian snacks market, which is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.

The proposed acquisition is also seen as a strategic play by Temasek, which is looking to diversify its portfolio and gain exposure to emerging Indian brands. Haldiram’s strong brand recognition and loyal customer base make it an attractive target for Temasek.

In conclusion, Temasek’s proposed acquisition of a 10% stake in Haldiram is a significant development in India’s food sector. The CCI’s approval will pave the way for Temasek to take a significant stake in the Indian snacks company, which is expected to boost Haldiram’s growth prospects and expand its reach into new markets.

Indian snack company Haldiram’s has made significant progress in its ongoing equity financing round, announcing that it has added two new investors, Alpha Wave Global and International Holding Company (IHC), to its list of investors. This comes just weeks after Singapore’s Temasek, a prominent sovereign wealth fund, acquired a 10% stake in the company for approximately $1 billion.

With the latest investments, Haldiram’s has secured a significant influx of capital, which it plans to use to drive growth and expansion in the market. The company, which is known for its popular snacks such as snacks such as rasgullas, samosas, and various types of chaat, has been on an acquisition spree in recent years, expanding its portfolio of products and brands.

Alpha Wave Global, a global growth equity firm, and IHC, an Abu Dhabi-based conglomerate, join Temasek as investors in Haldiram’s equity financing round. The exact stake acquired by each of the new investors has not been disclosed.

Haldiram’s has been expanding its presence in the domestic market and internationally, with a focus on emerging economies such as the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Africa. The company has also been venturing into new product categories, such as baked foods and premium snacks.

The latest investments are significant for Haldiram’s, as they demonstrate the confidence of global investors in the company’s growth prospects and its ability to compete in the highly competitive snack food market. With its expanded capital base, Haldiram’s is well-positioned to drive further expansion and growth in the coming years.

Overall, the latest developments at Haldiram’s are a testament to the company’s success in building a strong brand and its appeal to investors. As the snacking landscape continues to evolve, Haldiram’s is poised to capitalize on opportunities and maintain its position as a leading snack food company in India and beyond.

Temasek Holdings, Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund, has approached the Competition Commission of India (CCI) for approval to invest in Haldiram Snacks Food Pvt. Ltd., the largest packaged snacks and sweets company in India. The investment will be made through a Temasek subsidiary, Jongsong Investments Pte, and is worth around 10% of the company’s equity. This investment values Haldiram Snacks Food at approximately $10 billion.

The notice filed with CCI stated that the deal does not pose any competition law concerns, and the company has outlined potential market segments, including packaged food, snacks, sweets, and beverages. However, some experts have expressed concerns about a potential competition law issue, although the exact nature of this concern was not specified.

Haldiram Snacks Food, owned by the Agarwal family, had considered partnering with private equity firms such as Blackstone, Alpha Wave, and Bain Capital, but has instead chosen to sell a minority stake to Temasek. The company is reportedly exploring further options for the sale of additional equity.

The investment from Temasek is expected to fuel Haldiram’s expansion in both domestic and international markets, and the company may also consider an initial public offering (IPO) next year. The National Company Law Tribunal has cleared the merger of two family-run businesses, Haldiram Snacks (Delhi) and Haldiram Foods International (Nagpur), which formed Haldiram Snacks Food. Regulatory approvals are currently pending.

Temasek’s investment in Haldiram Snacks Food is significant, and the deal may indicate the company’s focus on growing its presence in the food sector. The valuation of $10 billion is a testament to the company’s success and growth potential in the competitive packaged food market.

Dealmaking activity slowed significantly in the recent week, due in part to the absence of large-scale transactions and the quietude of private equity firms. While some prominent venture capital firms did close deals, the overall value of private equity and venture capital deals dropped by 66% to $281 million. This marked a substantial decline from previous periods.

The lack of big-ticket transactions was a major factor in the slowdown, as these types of deals often drive the overall deal value and activity. In contrast, venture capital firms were more active during this period, striking new deals despite the prevailing sluggishness.

Despite the stalemate, some venture capital firms managed to close deals, signaling a glimmer of activity in the industry. This contrasted with the private equity firms, which seemed to be sitting on the sidelines, adopting a wait-and-see approach.

The decline in dealmaking activity can be attributed to various factors, including market fluctuations, regulatory hurdles, and other external factors. However, the recent slowdown serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the deal-making landscape, highlighting the need for flexibility and adaptability among investors.

Overall, the subdued dealmaking activity in the recent week may be an indication of a more cautious approach by investors, especially private equity firms. Meanwhile, venture capital firms have maintained a more proactive stance, despite the prevailing market conditions. As the deal-making landscape continues to evolve, investors will need to remain vigilant and adjust their strategies accordingly to capitalize on new opportunities and navigate potential challenges.

Singapore-based investment company Temasek has made a significant investment in Haldiram’s, one of India’s leading food and beverages company, by acquiring a significant stake for $10 billion (approximately Rs 8,719 crore). This deal is considered one of the biggest foreign investments in India’s consumer goods sector.

According to reports, Temasek’s investment will value Haldiram’s at $10 billion, making it one of the most valuable consumer goods companies in India. The financial details of the deal were not disclosed, but it is believed that Temasek will take a significant stake in Haldiram’s, which will give it a strong foothold in the Indian consumer goods market.

The deal is seen as a strategic investment by Temasek, which is looking to expand its presence in India’s fast-growing consumer goods market. India’s consumer goods sector is expected to continue to grow at a rapid pace, driven by the country’s large and young population, increasing disposable income, and rapidly changing lifestyles.

The deal is also seen as an endorsement of Haldiram’s growth prospects and the company’s ability to capitalize on India’s snacking frenzy. India is one of the world’s largest snack markets, with a growing demand for a variety of snacks, including biscuits, crackers, chips, and other packaged foods.

For Haldiram’s, the deal could lead to significant expansion opportunities, both domestically and internationally. The company has been expanding rapidly in recent years, both organically and through strategic acquisitions. The investment from Temasek will provide it with the necessary resources to accelerate its growth plans and become a major player in the global snack market.

Overall, the deal between Temasek and Haldiram’s is a significant development in India’s consumer goods sector and is likely to have a significant impact on the country’s snacking landscape. The investment will provide Haldiram’s with the necessary resources to capitalize on India’s snacking frenzy and grow its presence globally.

Anupam Mittal, an Indian entrepreneur and Shark Tank India judge, recently reacted to the acquisition of a stake in Haldiram Snacks Foods by Singaporean investment firm Temasek. He made a witty remark, “Ek Laakh Crore ki bhujiya? Kamaal hai India,” which translates to “Is a thousand crores worth of bhujiya? It’s amazing in India.” This refers to Haldiram’s reported valuation of $10 billion, a staggering figure that reflects the growing interest in India’s fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector.

Temasek’s investment in Haldiram’s is a significant milestone, as it outbid several global firms to secure a 9-10% minority stake. This deal is one of the largest foreign investments in India’s FMCG sector, demonstrating confidence in the country’s booming food and retail space. India’s growing middle class and shift in consumer behavior have made it an attractive market for global investors.

Temasek’s investment is part of its broader strategy in India, which includes a $37 billion exposure as of March 2024. The company plans to invest an additional $10 billion over the next three years. Haldiram’s is just the latest addition to Temasek’s Indian portfolio, which already includes Manipal Health, Rebel Foods, and others.

The deal may not be the only one, as private equity giants Blackstone and Alpha Wave Global are in talks to acquire an additional 5% stake in Haldiram’s. If successful, this could attract even more foreign capital to India’s FMCG sector. Haldiram’s, known for its traditional sweets and packaged foods, has garnered global attention, and its valuation of $10 billion underscores the strength and potential of India’s FMCG sector.

The article tells the story of Gopabai Kothari, a simple Bikaner woman who built a $10 billion snack empire, Haldiram’s, from her humble kitchen. Born in 1924, Gopabai grew up in a small town in India where food was always at the center of family life. Her love for cooking and experimentation with recipes laid the foundation for her remarkable journey.

In the 1950s, Gopabai started making crispy, crunchy snack called Bhujia, which quickly became a favorite among locals. Word-of-mouth and enthusiasm from happy customers led her to establish Haldiram’s, a small manufacturing unit in her kitchen. Her innovative recipes and commitment to quality soon earned a strong reputation in the region.

As demand grew, Gopabai’s son, Parsanmal Kothari, joined the business, and together they scaled up operations. In the 1970s, they transitioned from manual production to mechanized manufacturing, allowing them to meet the increasing demand. The company remained committed to using high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients and maintaining traditional recipes.

The 1980s saw the introduction of new products, including Masala Pack, the company’s signature blend of spices. This innovative move further boosted sales and brand recognition. Haldiram’s expanded its market reach, entering new cities and international territories.

Today, Haldiram’s is a global brand with a presence in over 75 countries. The company remains family-run, with Gopabai’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren involved in its operations. The company’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has resulted in an impressive brand worth $10 billion.

The story of Haldiram’s is a testament to the power of innovation, dedication, and the importance of family. Gopabai Kothari’s humble kitchen, where it all began, is now a small reminder of the giant enterprise that has grown from her love of cooking. The brand has come a long way from its origins in a small Indian town, and its success is a tribute to the talent, hard work, and vision of its founder. Gopabai’s legacy continues to inspire generations, and Haldiram’s remains an iconic snack brand that people all over the world love and recognize.

Haldiram Snacks Food, India’s largest manufacturer of snacks, has secured a deal with Temasek, a Singaporean private equity firm, to acquire a 10% stake in the company at a valuation of $10 billion. The deal is part of a larger plan to merge two separate entities, Haldiram Foods (based in Nagpur) and Haldiram Snacks (based in Delhi), which are both managed by the Agrawal family. The merger, which has been approved by the National Company Law Tribunal, aims to create a new entity, Haldiram Foods and Snacks, which will offer a range of products including salted snacks, sweets, retail stores, and eateries.

The deal is significant as it marks the first major investment in the Indian snacks industry by a foreign private equity firm. The valuation of the company, at $10 billion, is also notable, making it one of the largest in the Indian snacks industry. The company’s product portfolio, which includes popular brands like bhujia, popular among Indian immigrants worldwide, was a key factor in determining its valuation.

The deal comes as the Indian FMCG sector is witnessing a surge in mergers and acquisitions, with many companies looking to expand their presence in the snacks industry. The company’s promoters, the Agrawal family, had previously considered selling a majority stake, but decided to retain control within the family. The deal is expected to set the stage for an initial public offering (IPO) in the future.

The acquisition by Temasek is seen as a strategic move by the company to fund its growth plans and capitalize on the growing demand for snacks in India. The deal is also expected to attract more private equity and foreign funds to the Indian snacks industry, which is becoming increasingly attractive to investors.

The article tells the story of Gopabai, a Bikaner woman, and her role in the founding of Haldiram’s, a popular food brand in India. In the 1870s, Gopabai was a skilled cook who loved to experiment with new recipes and ingredients. She lived in Bikaner, a small town in the state of Rajasthan, India.

One day, a British merchant, H.L. Wadia, visited Bikaner and was impressed by Gopabai’s culinary skills. He approached her to create a range of savory snacks, including a spicy, crispy snack called bhujia, which became an instant hit. Wadia encouraged Gopabai to open a small shop, and Haldiram’s was born.

The partnership between Gopabai and Wadia flourished, and Haldiram’s quickly expanded to other parts of India. Gopabai’s recipes became famous for their unique blend of spices, which added a distinct flavor to the traditional Indian snacks. The brand became synonymous with quality and consistency, and Haldiram’s soon became a household name.

Gopabai’s story is often overshadowed by that of Wadia, but she was the true mastermind behind Haldiram’s early success. Her creativity, innovative recipes, and culinary expertise helped shape the brand’s identity and fueled its rapid growth.

Today, Haldiram’s is a $10 billion brand, with a global presence and a wide range of products, including snacking foods, breakfast items, and ready-to-cook meals. The brand has become a household name, and its logo is instantly recognizable.

Gopabai’s story is a testament to the power of innovation and determination. Despite being a woman with limited formal education, she was able to leave a lasting legacy in the world of food and entrepreneurship. Her legacy continues to inspire women entrepreneurs and food enthusiasts around the world.

The story of Haldiram’s is also a reminder of the importance of preserving and recognizing the contribution of women like Gopabai, who have played a crucial role in the development of India’s food industry. Their stories are often forgotten, but they deserve to be celebrated and emulated, as they have provided a lasting impact on the lives of millions of people around the world.

Anupam Mittal, a judge on Shark Tank India, recently commented on the acquisition of a 9-10% stake in Haldiram’s, a popular Indian snacks brand, by Singaporean investment firm Temasek. In a social media post, Mittal expressed his amazement at the reported valuation of Haldiram Snacks Foods at nearly $10 billion (around ₹8,500 crore), writing “Ek Laakh Crore ki bhujiya? Kamaal hai India” (Is it even worth one lakh crores? It’s amazing in India).

The acquisition is one of the largest recent deals in India’s fast-moving consumer goods sector and could pave the way for increased foreign investment. Temasek, which has a significant exposure to India with plans to invest another $10 billion over the next three years, is expanding its portfolio beyond its existing high-profile holdings, including Manipal Health and Rebel Foods.

The deal was the result of several months of negotiations, with Temasek emerging as the highest bidder for a minority stake. The investment highlights Temasek’s strategic push to grow its presence in India’s rapidly expanding consumer sector. The company is also in talks with private equity giants Blackstone and Alpha Wave Global to acquire an additional 5% stake in Haldiram’s, with the promoter family considering selling the stake.

Temasek, a Singapore-based state investment firm, is close to finalizing a deal to purchase a 9% stake in India’s Haldiram, a popular food and beverages company. The deal is reportedly valued at around $10 billion, according to sources. This move would be one of the largest foreign investments in an Indian company.

Blackstone, a US-based private equity firm, was initially in the running to acquire a significant stake in Haldiram, but it has reportedly backed out of the deal due to valuation disputes. Blackstone was said to have valued Haldiram at around $2 billion, lower than the company’s management’s expected valuation of $10 billion.

Temasek, on the other hand, is said to be willing to pay around $10 billion for a 9% stake, which would value the entire company at around $11.1 billion. This indicates that Temasek is willing to pay a premium for the stake, showing confidence in the company’s prospects.

The deal is likely to be a strategic one for both sides. For Haldiram, the investment would provide much-needed capital to fund its expansion plans and help the company grow its presence in the Indian market. For Temasek, the investment would be a significant addition to its Asian portfolio, particularly in the Indian market, which is expected to continue growing in the coming years.

The deal is also seen as a vote of confidence in the Indian economy and the country’s industrial sector. It would be one of the largest foreign investments in an Indian company, and is likely to attract more foreign investors to the country. The deal is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, pending regulatory approvals.