Reliance Consumer Products Limited (RCPL), the FMCG arm of Reliance Industries led by Mukesh Ambani, has announced the

acquisition of a majority stake in Udhaiyams Agro Foods Private Limited, a company based in Tamil Nadu.

Earlier reports indicated that Reliance Consumer was in advanced talks to acquire a controlling interest in the

Chennai-based Udhaiyams.

Udhaiyams Agro Foods, established over three decades ago, is estimated to be a Rs 668-crore business. The company has a

strong foothold in the staples, snacks, and ready-to-cook breakfast mixes market, with a portfolio that includes rice,

pulses, spices, snacks, and idli batter. Udhaiyams boasts an extensive distribution network throughout Tamil Nadu and

neighboring states.

Under the terms of the joint venture, RCPL will hold a controlling stake in Udhaiyams, while the existing promoters of

Udhaiyams will retain a minority stake. The specific financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.

T Krishnakumar, Director of Reliance Consumer Products Limited, stated that Udhaiyam is a well-known brand that has been

providing consumers with healthy food options for decades. He added that the brand reflects Tamil Nadu’s heritage,

scientific approach, and superior quality.

S Sudhakar, Managing Director of Udhaiyams Agro Foods, commented that the partnership with RCPL marks a significant new

chapter for the company, opening up new opportunities for Udhaiyam, which has been delighting consumers in Tamil Nadu

for decades. He emphasized that Udhaiyam is synonymous with the best quality branded pulses in Tamil Nadu households.

The acquisition aligns with Reliance's strategy of acquiring strong regional consumer brands and scaling them

nationally, similar to previous acquisitions in the beverages and personal care sectors. Udhaiyams competes with

companies such as Tata Consumer Products, iD Fresh Food, and MTR in the regional food market.

The deal with Udhaiyams occurs during a period of heightened consolidation in India's consumer sector, where large

legacy companies face increasing competition from regional and digital-first brands that utilize sharp pricing, direct

distribution, and quick commerce. This environment has led to larger rivals and investors actively courting smaller

players.