Reliance Consumer to Invest ₹8,000 Crore in Expanding Soft Drinks Business

Reliance Consumer Products Ltd (RCPL), the FMCG arm of Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Retail Ventures, is set to invest ₹6,000–₹8,000 crore over the next 12–15 months to strengthen its beverages portfolio. According to individuals directly familiar with the matter, this is RCPL's most significant investment since it began operations in 2022.

Focus on Capacity Expansion

The investment will be channeled toward building 10–12 new greenfield and co-packing plants across India. These facilities are aimed at increasing manufacturing capacity for brands like Campa Cola, Sosyo, Spinner, RasKik, Sun Crush, and Independence water. The company seeks to directly challenge global giants such as Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, as well as regional beverage players.

One executive revealed that the capital expenditure is a joint investment between Reliance and its partners, enabling the creation of a robust manufacturing backbone to meet increasing consumer demand.

Expanding Presence in Eastern India

Reliance has already launched a manufacturing plant in Guwahati, Assam, in partnership with Jericho Foods and Beverages LLP to cater to the Northeast market. Another new facility is under development in Bihar, reflecting RCPL's commitment to a pan-India manufacturing footprint.

These plants are expected to improve the logistics and distribution of beverages in underserved markets and reduce dependency on third-party suppliers.

Diversified Beverage Portfolio

RCPL’s beverage lineup includes:

• Campa Cola, Orange, and Lemon

• Sosyo soft drinks

• Spinner sports drink

• Sun Crush fruit juice

• RasKik, a fruit-based hydration drink

• Independence packaged water

In a unique collaboration, RCPL has partnered with cricket legend Muttiah Muralitharan to co-create and market the Spinner sports drink, priced aggressively at just ₹10 for a 250 ml bottle—less than half the price of competing brands like Gatorade and Sting.

Production and Co-Investment Model

Currently, Reliance beverages are being produced in 18 co-invested plants. The expansion plan aims to add several more such facilities, significantly boosting the company’s production capacity. This manufacturing approach allows RCPL to maintain cost efficiency while rapidly scaling operations.

Plans for Nationwide Availability

Despite an expanding portfolio, RCPL products are currently available in select regions. However, the company plans to achieve 70% availability by March 2026, aiming for nationwide coverage by March 2027.

In a recent interview, RCPL Director T. Krishnakumar emphasized the importance of building scale gradually, stating, “For any product to be scaled in an intense manner, you need 24–30 months.”

Competitive Pricing Strategy

RCPL’s pricing strategy focuses on targeting the mass market of 600 million consumers. The company offers 20–40% lower prices compared to Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Tata Consumer Products, and Dabur. This competitive pricing has prompted industry incumbents to increase promotions, enhance trade margins, and introduce smaller, more affordable SKUs.

The brand also works closely with neighbourhood retail stores, offering them better margins and ensuring deep market penetration.

Industry Outlook and Revenue Growth

According to ICRIER, India’s non-alcoholic beverage market—which includes carbonated drinks, fruit juices, and bottled water—is estimated at ₹67,000 crore and projected to reach ₹1.47 lakh crore by 2030.

In FY25, RCPL reported ₹11,500 crore in revenue, with Campa Cola and Independence each crossing ₹1,000 crore in sales. The total brand reach extended to over one million retail outlets, signaling strong traction and growth potential.

Conclusion

Reliance Consumer Products is making bold moves to become a major player in India's beverage sector. With strategic partnerships, aggressive pricing, capacity expansion, and a strong retail focus, the company is well-positioned to challenge established leaders and regional competitors alike. The ₹8,000 crore investment will further accelerate RCPL’s journey toward becoming a national FMCG powerhouse.