U Foods India Pvt Ltd, part of Hong Kong-based confectionery manufacturer, U Foods has forayed into the south Indian market with the launch of a wide range of confectionery products in tandem with the expansion of its distribution network in the region.
According to Adwait Pradhan, Chief Operating Officer, U Foods India Pvt. Ltd, “India offers huge potential for growth and hence our foray is very strategic in nature. We have invested over Rs100 crore (US$12.9 million) in our plant in the first phase of operations. We have a well-equipped R&D laboratory where we constantly innovate and upgrade to develop our products for consumers.”
U Foods India has a manufacturing plant at Kundali in Haryana. Under its popular brands Yoli Yola and Fruball, U Foods India manufactures a wide array of confectionery items such as soft candies, lollipops, chocolate balls, happy beans and cup jellies amongst others. The plant is HAACCP approved and has relevant ISO certifications. It also has well-equipped R&D Laboratory for product innovations.
Pradesh Lenka, Head of Marketing & Sales at U Foods India Pvt. Ltd said, “Starting from North and West, we are now targeting South India. Our initial response in this market has bolstered our confidence and we hope to expand and consolidate in South India. We are retailing in both channels – modern retail trade and general trade. We have built a strong distribution network of 42,000 outlets across India.” Lenka also added that the company plans to expand its product portfolio to include noodles and syrup-based products.
Adwait concluded, “India ranks very high in our list of priorities. Our extensive research has proven that India still remains an underserved market when it comes to quality and innovative confectionery items. Today consumers are constantly looking for newness in products. U Foods is a highly popular and a well-established brand worldwide with a robust product portfolio. It has carved a distinct niche for itself in the confectionary space and is known for its uniqueness in products – taste, flavours and distinct packaging.
