India: Marico to acquire snacking brand 4700BC

Marico, the Indian FMCG giant best known for its Saffola and Parachute brands, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a majority stake in Zea Maize Pvt Ltd, the owner of the snacking brand 4700BC.

The transaction will see Marico purchase a 53.48% stake in the company for an aggregate consideration of 226.8 crore INR ($26.9 million). As part of the deal, PVR INOX, the cinema exhibition chain which was an early investor in the brand, will divest its entire holding. The acquisition marks Marico’s deepening focus on the packaged foods sector, complementing its existing portfolio of ‘better-for-you’ brands including Saffola and True Elements.

Saugata Gupta, managing director and CEO of Marico, commented: “The investment in 4700BC aligns well with Marico’s ambition to participate in fast-growing food categories through distinctive, future-ready brands. We see immense potential in 4700BC as a premium snacking brand with deep consumer connect and proven execution. Together, we will tap the opportunity to leverage our existing scale in foods to broaden the brand’s presence across channels, while staying true to its consumer-first ethos”.

Founded in 2013, 4700BC began as a cinema concession brand before expanding into retail and digital commerce. Its portfolio includes premium popcorn, makhana (fox nuts) and corn chips. The brand reported a turnover of 107 crore INR ($12.7 million) for the financial year ended March 2025.

The deal is expected to close within four weeks, with Marico holding the right to acquire the remaining stake after three years.

Source: Business Standard