MUMBAI: Reliance Consumer Products has acquired the Sil brand, which specialises in packaged food items for an undisclosed amount. The Sil range includes cooking pastes, jams, mayonnaise, Chinese sauces, and other food items.
This acquisition is set to intensify market rivalry with Hindustan Unilever, Tata Consumer Products and Cremica. Reliance has bought Sil from Food Service India, which is owned by Ajay Mariwala, a third generation entrepreneur. The 75-year-old brand began as James Smith & Co. Its ownership changed hands when Marico Industries acquired it in 1993, followed by Scandic Food India, a subsidiary of Danish company Good Food. Subsequently, Food Service India took ownership of Sil in 2021.
In the past, Reliance has acquired several brands including Ravalgaon and Toffeeman confectionery, Campa soft drinks, Raskik beverages, Sosyo carbonated drinks and Lotus chocolates. The company’s strategy has been to acquire heritage Indian brands and revitalise them for modern consumers. In a statement, Reliance said its intention is to bring new life to the Sil brand, build on its established legacy while elevating its market presence.
The acquisition includes only the Sil brand, excluding employees and manufacturing units. Sil operates two production facilities in Pune and Bengaluru.
Following the Sil brand sale, Food Service India, which produces seasonings and flavours, will concentrate on its B2B operations serving hotels, restaurants and cafes (Horeca).
Last week, Reliance reported revenue of Rs 8,000 crore for the initial nine months of fiscal 2025. Its Campa and Independence brands showed positive market performance. Campa achieved over 10% market share in sparkling beverages in certain states. “Both brands are projected to cross Rs 1,000 crore turnover each this fiscal,” it said.
The company noted significant growth in general trade, achieving over 300% year-on-year growth in the third quarter of fiscal 2025, expanding through distributor networks and merchant outlets nationwide.
