Tata Consumer Products (TCPL) will acquire Tata SmartFoodz (TSFL) from its group firm Tata Industries for a cash consideration of Rs 395 crore.
TCPL has signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100 percent equity shares of TSFL, a deal which will help the Tata group FMCG arm to enter into the Ready-to-Eat category.
This move is consistent with TCPL's strategic intent to expand into value-added categories. The acquisition will enable TCPL to expand its product portfolio and enter the RTE segment.
TSFL, under the brand name Tata Q, offers a range of differentiated products manufactured using MATS technology in India. It had commenced operations in 2019 and became the second-largest player in the RTE market. TSFL also has a manufacturing facility in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh.
Tata Consumer Products will leverage its existing domestic and international distribution and focus on operational excellence to maximise value. Moreover, TSFL is using MATS technology, which will also enable TCPL to create a strong pipeline of value-added products in other parts of the foods business.
Microwave-assisted thermal sterilisation (MATS) is a food processing technology that uses long-wavelength microwave energy together with heat to sterilise packaged food. It retains sensitive nutritional components, along with flavour, texture and appearance.
TCPL had earlier in February 2021 announced to acquire Bengaluru-based Kottaram Agro Foods, engaged in the business of healthy breakfast cereals and millet-based snacks under the trademark Soulfull, for Rs 155.8 crore to expand its product portfolio.
In October 2021, the company noted it will transfer its tea cafe business Tata Cha to group firm IHCL, which operates Taj Group of Hotels.