Bikaji Foods secures 55% stake in Ariba Foods, eyes growth in frozen food sector

Bikaji Foods International Ltd. has taken a major step in enhancing its presence in the frozen food sector by acquiring a 55% equity stake in Ariba Foods Private Limited. This acquisition, valued at ₹60.49 crores, makes Ariba Foods a subsidiary of Bikaji, further solidifying its position in the rapidly growing frozen snacks and sweets market, both in India and globally.

This acquisition is strategically significant for Bikaji as it comes at a time when the frozen food industry is experiencing robust growth, driven by increased consumer demand for convenience and the expansion of Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) chains. By integrating Ariba’s advanced manufacturing facilities, Bikaji aims to bolster its production capabilities, particularly in the frozen snacks category, which includes products like samosas, naans, parathas, and sweets.

Ariba Foods, based in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, is well-regarded for its “InDine” brand, offering a wide range of frozen foods and contract manufacturing services. The company’s strategic location and production capabilities are expected to complement Bikaji’s growth strategy, particularly in meeting the increasing demand for high-quality frozen snacks in both domestic and international markets.

Bikaji Foods’ strategic acquisition of Ariba Foods is set to transform the frozen food industry and expand market reach.

Deepak Agarwal, Managing Director of Bikaji Foods, emphasized the acquisition’s role in enhancing Bikaji’s export growth potential and supporting its entry into the QSR segment. Similarly, Gaurav Baheti, Promoter of Ariba Foods, highlighted the deal as a milestone for Ariba, enabling the company to drive significant growth in the frozen food category in collaboration with Bikaji.

This strategic investment, facilitated by Mumbai-based Intensive Softshare Private Limited, aligns with Bikaji’s long-term goals of diversifying its product portfolio and leveraging technological advancements in food processing. The acquisition is expected to be completed within 90 days, marking a new phase of growth for Bikaji as it consolidates its market position in the Indian snacks industry, where it already dominates with its flagship product, Bikaneri Bhujia, and other ethnic snacks.

Bikaji Foods, a pioneer in the Indian snacks market since 1993, operates across 25 states and 4 union territories. This acquisition marks a significant expansion of its product offerings, setting the stage for further growth in the competitive frozen food segment​.