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Cremica beefs up global expansion and quick-commerce strategy
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Thursday, 29 October, 2026, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Anurag More, Mumbai
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Cremica Food Industries Ltd. is stepping up its international expansion and strengthening its presence across emerging sales channels, with initiatives in the UK and Southeast Asia expected to potentially contribute Rs150–200 crore in additional revenue in FY2027-28. The company is also focusing on distribution expansion, product innovation and operational efficiency as it looks to accelerate growth in the domestic and international markets.
According to Akshay Bector, managing director of Cremica Food Industries Ltd., the UK is a key focus market, with expansion underway and the first shipments expected to begin in November 2026, primarily targeting the hotel, restaurant and catering (HoReCa) segment. Southeast Asia is another promising market, with initial approvals received to supply sauces to an international restaurant chain operating approximately 4,000–5,000 outlets. Sampling and product trials are underway, with business expected to scale up from FY2027-28.
Cremica already exports its products to markets across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, the US and Australia. The company sees opportunities to deepen its presence in these regions while expanding into new markets and strengthening its global brand positioning.
Commenting on the outlook for India's food-processing industry, Bector said changing lifestyles, rising disposable incomes and increasing demand for convenient, ready-to-consume products would continue to drive growth over the next five years. He also sees significant opportunities in premium and value-added food products as consumers increasingly explore differentiated offerings.
Tier-II and Tier-III cities are expected to become important growth markets as consumption patterns evolve and organised retail and distribution networks expand. For food companies, he believes the opportunity lies in developing products that combine quality, convenience and value while responding to the needs of diverse consumer segments.
Bector highlighted that Indian and international markets differ considerably in consumer expectations and regulatory requirements. While taste, familiarity, affordability and value remain important purchasing considerations in India, consumers in many international markets place greater emphasis on ingredients, nutrition, transparency and certifications.
For Cremica, the priority is to adapt products to local preferences and regulatory requirements without compromising on quality and safety. Understanding consumer needs and striking the right balance between taste, quality, safety and affordability will remain central to its product development strategy.
Bector believes innovation will be crucial for Indian food brands seeking to remain competitive against domestic and multinational players. At Cremica, the approach is centred on understanding changing consumer preferences and developing products that respond to evolving expectations around flavours, formats, convenience and packaging.
He noted that Indian brands have an inherent advantage in their understanding of local tastes and food habits. Combining this insight with consistent product quality and continuous innovation can help brands differentiate themselves and strengthen their competitiveness in domestic and global markets.
The company is also strengthening its presence across traditional retail, modern trade, e-commerce and quick commerce. According to Bector, traditional trade remains important for reaching a broad consumer base, while newer channels provide opportunities to improve product visibility, accessibility and brand discovery.
Quick commerce, in particular, has reshaped expectations around convenience and product availability. Cremica is working to understand the products, pack sizes and formats that perform best on these platforms while continuing to invest in its established retail network.
The company's distribution strategy will also vary according to market requirements. In Tier-II and Tier-III cities, the focus will be on expanding distribution, strengthening distributor and retailer networks, improving product availability and offering accessible price points. Smaller packs are expected to help address varying consumer budgets while encouraging product trials and repeat purchases.
In metropolitan markets, where consumers have greater choice and are more receptive to new offerings, Cremica intends to focus on innovation, premiumisation and differentiated formats. This includes exploring new flavours, ingredients, pack formats, portion sizes and products suited to specific consumption occasions.
Sustainability remains an important part of Cremica's long-term growth strategy. Bector said the company is working towards reducing wastage, improving energy and resource efficiency, and making its manufacturing processes more sustainable. It is also evaluating packaging and sourcing practices to identify opportunities to reduce its environmental impact.
He described sustainability as an ongoing process that requires meaningful, long-term improvements while maintaining product quality and safety. Alongside these efforts, operational efficiency and the strengthening of the company's core business will remain important priorities.
For FY2027 and beyond, Cremica plans to strengthen distribution, expand into new markets, invest in innovation and build its export business. Enhancing its capabilities across e-commerce and quick commerce will also form part of its growth agenda.
Outlining his long-term vision, Bector said Cremica aims to build on its established position in India and extend its reach to more consumers worldwide. The company's ambition is to emerge as a strong Indian food brand with a meaningful international presence, supported by quality, consistency, innovation and consumer trust.
He emphasised that sustaining growth will require a clear understanding of changing consumer expectations, alongside the ability to adapt products and distribution strategies to different markets. As Cremica expands its geographical footprint and strengthens its presence across retail channels, the company intends to remain focused on delivering reliable, great-tasting products while pursuing responsible and sustainable growth.
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