Marico to Acquire 4700BC Parent Zea Maize for ₹227 Crore

Market Performance

Marico Ltd, a leading FMCG company in India, has taken a significant step in the foods and snacks segment. Marico Ltd has confirmed it will acquire a majority stake in Zea Maize Private Ltd, the parent company behind 4700BC, a leading premium gourmet snacking brand.”

The transaction, valued at ₹227 crore, gives Marico a 93.27% stake in Zea Maize. This move highlights Marico’s focus on expanding its footprint in fast-growing and premium food categories.

The Deal in Detail

• Acquirer: Marico Ltd
• Target: Zea Maize Private Ltd (Owner of 4700BC)
• Stake Acquired: 93.27%
• Transaction Value: ₹227 crore

4700BC is recognized for its gourmet popcorn and other innovative snacks including:

• Popped chips
• Makhana
• Crunchy corn
• Nachos

The brand has built a strong presence across offline, online, and institutional channels, including airlines and cinemas, since its inception.

About 4700BC and Zea Maize

Founded in 2013 by Chirag Gupta, 4700BC pioneered the gourmet popcorn segment in India. Over the years, the brand has expanded its offerings and captured a niche audience that values premium, ready-to-eat snacks.

The company has focused on:

• Diverse product portfolio across sweet and savory snacks
• Strategic partnerships with cinemas and airlines
• Multi-channel reach including e-commerce and retail

Strategic Significance

The acquisition strengthens Marico’s position in premium foods and snacks, complementing its existing portfolio in oils, hair care, and health foods. It also positions the company to:

• Tap into the gourmet snacks segment, which is growing rapidly in India
• Expand the reach of 4700BC through Marico’s distribution network
• Build on innovation and product development capabilities

For 4700BC, the deal provides a platform to scale faster while retaining its brand identity and focus on consumer experience.

Summary

Marico Ltd’s acquisition of Zea Maize Private Ltd and its flagship brand 4700BC for ₹227 crore marks a strategic expansion into India’s premium snacking market. With strong brand presence, diverse products, and multi-channel reach, 4700BC is set to enter a new growth phase under Marico’s stewardship.

This move underscores the growing importance of gourmet snacks in India’s FMCG landscape and highlights Marico’s commitment to tapping future-ready, high-growth food categories

Source: The Hindu