India: Reliance Consumer Products acquires Southern Health Foods

Reliance Consumer Products Limited (RCPL), the fast-moving consumer goods arm of Reliance Industries, has acquired the Chennai-based health food manufacturer Southern Health Foods for 156.4 crore INR ($17.2 million).

Effective from 9th February, Southern Health Foods became a wholly owned subsidiary of RCPL following the acquisition of a 100% equity stake. Best known for its flagship brand Manna, the company has operated for over two decades, specialising in health-focused products including millet-based staples, multigrain mixes, breakfast cereals, baby food and health drinks. The firm reported a turnover of 109 crore INR ($12 million) for the 2024-25 financial year.

According to RCPL, the acquisition strengthens its staples portfolio – which includes brands such as Udhaiyam, Independence and SiL – by building a robust vertical in the growing millet-based and ‘better-for-you’ food segments. RCPL also plans to leverage its extensive distribution and supply chain network to expand the Manna brand beyond its core markets in southern India to achieve a national presence.

Commenting on the acquisition, RCPL director T Krishnakumar stated: “Manna is one of the most trusted names in the health-focused foods market in Tamil Nadu with a noticeable presence in the adjoining states. Apart from adding muscle to RCPL’s packaged foods portfolio, Manna’s addition will help us serve consumers the best nutritious foods”.

The deal follows RCPL’s broader expansion strategy in the FMCG space, which recently included the acquisition of a majority stake in the Australian beverage firm Goodness Group Global.

Source: Just Food / The Hindu / Economic Times / Financial Express / Business Today