VBL - Varun Beverages
π’ Recent Corporate Announcements
Varun Beverages (VBL) has approved the acquisition of an additional 23% stake in Jager Renewables Two Private Limited for Rs. 7.05 Crore, bringing its total holding to 49%. This investment is a strategic move to secure captive solar power for its manufacturing facilities across Rajasthan, which is expected to reduce operational energy costs. Furthermore, VBL is issuing a corporate guarantee of ZAR 1,240 Million (approx. Rs. 550 Crore) to support credit facilities for its South African subsidiary, Bevco. These actions demonstrate VBL's commitment to cost optimization and the financial strengthening of its international operations.
- Acquisition of additional 23% stake in Jager Renewables for Rs. 7.05 Crore to reach 49% total ownership.
- Secures captive solar power for facilities in Kota, Alwar, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Bhiwadi to lower energy costs.
- Issuance of a ZAR 1,240 Million corporate guarantee for South African subsidiary Bevco valid until July 2026.
- The investment in Jager Renewables is part of a group captive model to comply with electricity regulations.
- Corporate guarantee for Bevco is intended to secure credit facilities from FirstRand Bank Limited.
Varun Beverages (VBL) is increasing its stake in Jager Renewables Two Private Limited from 26% to 49% for a cash consideration of βΉ7.05 Crore to secure captive solar power for its Rajasthan facilities. This move is aimed at reducing power costs and enhancing sustainability across five key locations. Additionally, the company has approved a Corporate Guarantee of ZAR 1,240 Million for its South African subsidiary, Bevco, to secure credit facilities. These actions reflect VBL's strategy to optimize domestic operational costs while providing financial support for its international expansion.
- Acquiring additional 23% stake in Jager Renewables for βΉ7.05 Crore, bringing total holding to 49%
- Securing solar power for facilities in Kota, Alwar, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Bhiwadi to lower energy expenses
- Issuing a Corporate Guarantee of ZAR 1,240 Million (approx. βΉ550-600 Cr) for subsidiary Bevco in South Africa
- The guarantee is valid until July 31, 2026, in favor of FirstRand Bank Limited
- Investment in Jager Renewables is structured under the group captive model of the Electricity Act
Varun Beverages Limited (VBL) has announced its 31st Annual General Meeting (AGM) to be held on April 1, 2026, via video conferencing. The Board has recommended a final dividend of βΉ0.50 per equity share of face value βΉ2 for the financial year ended December 31, 2025. Key agenda items include the adoption of audited financial statements and the re-appointment of directors Mr. Ravi Jaipuria and Mr. Raj Gandhi. The company also seeks approval for the continuation of Mr. Abhiram Seth as an Independent Director as he approaches 75 years of age.
- Proposed final dividend of βΉ0.50 per equity share with a face value of βΉ2 each.
- 31st Annual General Meeting scheduled for April 1, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. IST.
- Re-appointment of key directors Mr. Ravi Jaipuria and Mr. Raj Gandhi on the agenda.
- Special resolution proposed for the continuation of Mr. Abhiram Seth as Independent Director until May 2028.
- The company follows a January to December financial year cycle as per Section 2(41) of the Companies Act.
Varun Beverages Limited (VBL) has scheduled participation in two major institutional investor conferences in Mumbai. The company will attend the Kotak Chasing Growth 2026 conference on February 23, 2026, followed by IIFL's 17th Enterprising India Global Investors' Conference on February 24, 2026. Senior management, including Mr. Raj Gandhi and Mr. Deepak Dabas, will represent the company in these group meetings. The company has explicitly stated that no unpublished price sensitive information (UPSI) will be shared during these interactions.
- Participation in Kotak Chasing Growth 2026 conference on February 23, 2026
- Attendance at IIFL's 17th Enterprising India Global Investors' Conference on February 24, 2026
- Management representation by Mr. Raj Gandhi and Mr. Deepak Dabas
- Company confirms no unpublished price sensitive information will be disclosed
Varun Beverages (VBL) reported a resilient CY2025 with PAT growing 16.2% to βΉ30,620.4 million, despite weather-related disruptions in India during the peak summer. Consolidated volumes grew 7.9% for the full year, with a significant recovery in Q4 where volumes jumped 10.2% across domestic and international markets. The company capitalized βΉ45,000 million in CAPEX, including four new greenfield plants in India, and remains virtually debt-free at the consolidated level. Management maintains a positive outlook for CY2026, targeting double-digit volume growth assuming normal weather conditions.
- Consolidated revenue grew 8.4% YoY to βΉ216,853.8 million, driven by a 7.9% increase in total sales volumes to 1,213.1 million cases.
- Q4 performance showed strong recovery with India volumes growing 10.5% and International volumes up 10%.
- Full-year PAT increased 16.2% to βΉ30,620.4 million, supported by lower finance costs and higher other income.
- Capitalized βΉ45,000 million in CAPEX for 4 greenfield plants in India and international expansions in Africa and Morocco.
- Consolidated net debt reduced to a negligible βΉ256 million, with the India business remaining net debt-free and CRISIL upgrading the rating to AAA/Stable.
Varun Beverages Limited (VBL) has scheduled a meeting with a group of investors on February 12, 2026, in Mumbai. The company will be participating in the 'Advantage India - Axis Capital's Flagship India Conference'. Senior management representatives, Mr. Raj Gandhi and Mr. Deepak Dabas, will be attending the event to interact with the investment community. The company has clarified that no unpublished price sensitive information (UPSI) will be shared during this interaction.
- Participation in Axis Capital's Flagship India Conference scheduled for February 12, 2026
- Management representation by Mr. Raj Gandhi and Mr. Deepak Dabas
- Group investor meeting format to be held in Mumbai
- Explicit confirmation that no unpublished price sensitive information will be disclosed
Varun Beverages Limited (VBL) has released the audio recording of its conference call held on February 3, 2026. The call followed the announcement of the company's audited financial results for the quarter and financial year ended December 31, 2025. This disclosure is a standard procedural requirement under Regulation 30 of SEBI (LODR) Regulations. Investors can access the recording to hear management's detailed commentary on the annual performance and future outlook.
- Audio recording of the Investors & Analysts Conference Call held on February 3, 2026, is now available.
- The call discussed the Audited Financial Results for the Quarter and Financial Year ended December 31, 2025.
- Compliance filing made under Regulation 30 of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015.
- The recording is hosted on the company's official website for public access.
Varun Beverages Limited (VBL) has approved the allotment of 1,05,625 equity shares to eligible employees under its Employees Stock Option Scheme 2016. This allotment increases the company's total paid-up equity share capital from 338.19 crore shares to 338.20 crore shares. The exercise prices for these shares were set at various levels including Rs. 119.20, Rs. 121.00, Rs. 174.00, and Rs. 320.40 per share. This is a routine administrative action and results in a negligible dilution of the existing equity base.
- Allotment of 1,05,625 equity shares of face value Rs. 2 each upon exercise of stock options
- Total paid-up shares increased to 3,38,20,94,394 from 3,38,19,88,769
- Exercise prices for the allotment ranged from a low of Rs. 119.20 to a high of Rs. 320.40 per share
- Total issued share capital post-allotment stands at approximately Rs. 676.42 crore
Varun Beverages (VBL) has recommended a final dividend of βΉ0.50 per equity share for the financial year ended December 31, 2025. The company also approved an investment of up to βΉ1.58 crore to acquire a 30% stake in FPEL HR2 Energy Private Limited, a solar power SPV, to secure captive power for its Haryana facilities. This strategic move is intended to reduce power costs and promote green energy usage. Additionally, the board approved the continuation of Mr. Abhiram Seth as an Independent Director beyond the age of 75, ensuring leadership continuity.
- Recommended a final dividend of βΉ0.50 per equity share of βΉ2 face value for FY 2025.
- Approved investment of up to βΉ1.58 crore for a 30% equity stake in a solar power SPV.
- The solar project will supply captive power to VBL facilities in Nuh and Panipat, Haryana.
- Continuation of Mr. Abhiram Seth as Non-Executive Independent Director approved subject to AGM.
- The 31st Annual General Meeting (AGM) is scheduled for April 1, 2026.
Varun Beverages (VBL) has recommended a final dividend of βΉ0.50 per equity share for the financial year ended December 31, 2025. The company is also investing up to βΉ1.58 Crore to acquire a 30% stake in FPEL HR2 Energy Private Limited, a solar power SPV. This strategic move is intended to provide captive solar power to its facilities in Haryana, aiming to reduce long-term power costs. Additionally, the board has approved the continuation of Mr. Abhiram Seth as an Independent Director and scheduled the 31st AGM for April 1, 2026.
- Recommended final dividend of βΉ0.50 per equity share of face value βΉ2 for FY2025
- Approved investment of up to βΉ1.58 Crore for a 30% equity stake in FPEL HR2 Energy Private Limited
- Solar power project to supply captive energy to Nuh and Panipat facilities in Haryana
- Completion of the solar SPV acquisition is expected on or before November 2, 2026
- 31st Annual General Meeting scheduled for April 1, 2026, via video conferencing
Varun Beverages (VBL) has recommended a final dividend of βΉ0.50 per equity share for the financial year ended December 31, 2025. The company is also investing up to βΉ1.58 crore to acquire a 30% stake in FPEL HR2 Energy Private Limited, a solar power SPV in Haryana. This strategic investment is designed to secure captive solar power for its Nuh and Panipat facilities, aimed at reducing long-term energy costs. Additionally, the board approved the continuation of Mr. Abhiram Seth as an Independent Director and scheduled the 31st AGM for April 1, 2026.
- Recommended a final dividend of βΉ0.50 per equity share with a nominal value of βΉ2 each.
- Approved investment of up to βΉ1.58 crore for a 30% equity stake in FPEL HR2 Energy Private Limited.
- Solar power project intended to supply captive energy to Haryana facilities to reduce operational costs.
- Scheduled the 31st Annual General Meeting (AGM) for April 1, 2026, via video conferencing.
- Approved the continuation of Mr. Abhiram Seth as a Non-Executive Independent Director beyond age 75.
Varun Beverages (VBL) reported a robust Q4 2025 with PAT growing 32.9% YoY to Rs. 2,600 million and revenue increasing 14% to Rs. 42,044.2 million. For the full year CY2025, consolidated sales volume grew 7.9% to 1,213.1 million cases, driving a 16.2% increase in PAT to Rs. 30,620.4 million. The company is aggressively expanding its footprint through the acquisition of Twizza in South Africa and the commissioning of four new greenfield plants in India. VBL is also diversifying its portfolio by entering the alcoholic beverage segment and expanding snacks distribution in African markets. The Board recommended a final dividend of Rs. 0.50 per share, and the company received a credit rating upgrade to CRISIL AAA/Stable.
- Q4 2025 PAT grew 32.9% YoY to Rs. 2,600 million; Revenue up 14.0% to Rs. 42,044.2 million
- CY2025 consolidated sales volume reached 1,213.1 million cases, a 7.9% YoY growth
- EBITDA for CY2025 increased 7.2% to Rs. 50,493.7 million, with margins slightly down by 26 bps to 23.3%
- Acquisition of Twizza (South Africa) at an enterprise value of ~ZAR 2,095 million expected by June 2026
- Commissioned 4 new greenfield production facilities in India to support upcoming peak season demand
Varun Beverages (VBL) reported a resilient CY2025 with PAT growing 16.2% to βΉ30,620.4 million, despite weather-related volume disruptions in India during the peak season. Consolidated revenue grew 8.4% to βΉ216,854 million, supported by a 7.9% increase in total sales volumes. The company is aggressively diversifying, having commissioned four new greenfield plants in India and announcing a strategic entry into the alcoholic beverage and Ready-To-Drink (RTD) segments. Additionally, the acquisition of Twizza in South Africa and a credit rating upgrade to AAA/Stable highlight strong inorganic growth and financial stability.
- Consolidated PAT increased by 16.2% YoY to βΉ30,620.4 million for the full year ended December 31, 2025.
- Total sales volumes grew 7.9% YoY to 1,213 million cases, with a strong Q4 recovery showing 10.5% growth in India.
- Proposed acquisition of 100% stake in Twizza (South Africa) at an enterprise value of ~ZAR 2,095 million to expand African footprint.
- CRISIL upgraded the company's long-term credit rating to AAA/Stable from AA+/Stable.
- Board recommended a final dividend of βΉ0.50 per equity share (face value βΉ2) for CY2025.
Varun Beverages Limited (VBL) reported a robust performance for the financial year ended December 31, 2025, with consolidated revenue growing 8.5% YoY to βΉ222.26 billion. Net profit for the full year increased by 16.2% to βΉ30.62 billion, while Q4 profit saw a significant jump of 32.9% YoY to βΉ2.60 billion. The board has recommended a final dividend of βΉ0.50 per share. Additionally, the company is investing βΉ1.58 crore for a 30% stake in a solar energy SPV to reduce power costs at its Haryana facilities.
- Full-year FY25 consolidated revenue reached βΉ222,255.84 million, up from βΉ204,813.28 million in FY24.
- Consolidated Net Profit for FY25 grew 16.2% to βΉ30,620.42 million compared to βΉ26,342.85 million in the previous year.
- Q4 FY25 revenue stood at βΉ43,347.95 million, a 13.5% increase over the same quarter last year.
- Board recommended a final dividend of βΉ0.50 per equity share of face value βΉ2 for FY2025.
- Approved investment of up to βΉ1.58 crore for a 30% stake in FPEL HR2 Energy for captive solar power consumption.
Varun Beverages Limited (VBL) has scheduled a conference call for investors and analysts on February 3, 2026, at 2:30 PM IST. The call is intended to discuss the company's financial results and business developments for the fourth quarter and the full calendar year ended December 31, 2025. Senior management will be present to provide insights into the company's performance and future outlook. This follows the standard regulatory requirement for listed companies to engage with the investment community post-earnings.
- Conference call scheduled for February 3, 2026, at 2:30 PM IST
- Discussion to cover Q4 and full-year CY 2025 financial results
- Senior management participation confirmed for investor interaction
- Primary dial-in numbers provided: +91 22 6280 1141 and +91 22 7115 8042
Financial Performance
Revenue Growth by Segment
Consolidated net revenue grew 24.7% YoY to INR 20,007.65 Cr in CY2024. This was driven by an 11.4% volume growth in the Domestic segment (821 million cases) and a massive 72.3% volume growth in the International segment (303 million cases) following the BevCo acquisition.
Geographic Revenue Split
India remains the primary market contributing 73% of total sales volume (821 million cases), while International territories (including Nepal, Sri Lanka, Morocco, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and the newly integrated South Africa/DRC) contribute 27% of volume (303 million cases).
Profitability Margins
Net Profit After Tax (PAT) grew 25.3% to INR 2,634.28 Cr in CY2024. PAT margins improved slightly to 13.2% from 12.9% in CY2023. Standalone PAT stood at INR 2,320.36 Cr, up from INR 1,775.13 Cr.
EBITDA Margin
Operating margins improved to 23.5% in CY2024 from 22.5% in CY2023, a 100 bps increase driven by better operating leverage and cost optimization. EBITDA margins are expected to sustain around 21-21.5% over the medium term.
Capital Expenditure
VBL incurred a large capex of approximately INR 2,500 Cr in CY2023 focused on CSD, juice, and dairy segments. In CY2024, the company established two greenfield plants in Supa (Maharashtra) and Gorakhpur (UP) to expand the carbonated and non-carbonated portfolio.
Credit Rating & Borrowing
The company maintains a strong credit profile with a 'Stable' outlook from CRISIL. Borrowing costs are managed through a debt-to-EBITDA ratio that improved significantly to 0.5x in Dec 2024 from 1.4x in Dec 2023, following a INR 7,500 Cr QIP issuance.
Operational Drivers
Raw Materials
Key raw materials include PET chips (used for bottles), sugar, beverage concentrates, crown corks, PET pre-forms, corrugated boxes, and shrink wrap sheets. Cost of materials consumed was INR 8,293.74 Cr in CY2024, representing 41.4% of net revenue.
Import Sources
Not specifically disclosed by country, but sourcing is centralized to leverage scale. Operations in Africa utilize local currency for expenditures to create a natural hedge.
Key Suppliers
VBL operates as a franchisee for PepsiCo Inc., which is the primary supplier of beverage concentrates and brand licensing.
Capacity Expansion
Current expansion includes two new greenfield plants in India (Supa and Gorakhpur) operational in CY2024. The company is also incorporating a new subsidiary in Kenya for manufacturing and distribution of dairy and beverages.
Raw Material Costs
Raw material costs grew 18.0% YoY to INR 8,293.74 Cr, which is lower than the 24.7% revenue growth, indicating improved procurement efficiency and a decrease in the cost of PET chips.
Manufacturing Efficiency
Operating efficiency is driven by presence in contiguous territories which reduces logistics costs. Working capital days improved to 31 days in CY2024 from 34 days in CY2023 despite inorganic expansion.
Logistics & Distribution
VBL utilizes a vast distribution network across 27 States and 7 Union Territories in India. Logistics are optimized by clustering production facilities in contiguous territories to maintain economies of scale.
Strategic Growth
Expected Growth Rate
17.90%
Growth Strategy
Growth will be achieved through: 1) Geographic expansion in Africa (BevCo integration, DRC, Tanzania, Ghana, and Kenya); 2) Increasing penetration in under-penetrated rural Indian markets via Visi-cooler placements; 3) Product diversification into value-added dairy, juices, and the PepsiCo snacks business; 4) Strategic acquisitions of new territories.
Products & Services
Carbonated Soft Drinks (CSD), Juice-based drinks, Value-added dairy beverages, Packaged drinking water, and Snacks. The company is also test-marketing Beer in certain African territories.
Brand Portfolio
Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7UP, Mirinda, Sting, Gatorade, Tropicana, Aquafina, Cream Bell (dairy), and BevCo owned brands.
New Products/Services
Expansion into the snacks business under PepsiCo partnership and test-marketing of beer in Africa. New greenfield plants in CY2024 are dedicated to value-added dairy and juices.
Market Expansion
Acquisition of BevCo in South Africa (Enterprise Value INR 1,320 Cr) and expansion into DRC, Tanzania, Ghana, and Kenya. Domestic expansion focuses on lower-penetrated rural territories.
Market Share & Ranking
VBL is the lead franchisee for PepsiCo in India, accounting for 90%+ of PepsiCo's beverage sales volume in the country.
Strategic Alliances
Exclusive franchisee rights with PepsiCo Inc. for various territories in India and Africa. Exclusive distribution agreement for beer test-marketing in Africa.
External Factors
Industry Trends
The industry is shifting toward healthier, low-sugar, and zero-calorie options. VBL is positioning itself by expanding its juice and value-added dairy portfolio and aligning with PepsiCoβs healthier product plans.
Competitive Landscape
Primary competition includes The Coca-Cola Company and local regional beverage players. VBL competes through aggressive distribution and a diversified portfolio including energy drinks (Sting).
Competitive Moat
Durable advantages include: 1) Exclusive long-term franchise rights from PepsiCo; 2) Massive scale and backward integration (cost leadership); 3) Extensive cold-chain distribution network (Visi-coolers) that creates high entry barriers.
Macro Economic Sensitivity
Highly sensitive to summer temperatures and rainfall patterns in India, as a significant portion of revenue accrues in the April-June quarter (bell-curve performance).
Consumer Behavior
Increasing consumer preference for 'on-the-go' consumption and healthier beverage alternatives is driving growth in the non-CSD segment.
Geopolitical Risks
Concentration in African regions poses risks of political instability; however, VBL operates in regions not subject to US sanctions and has a track record in Morocco, Zambia, and Zimbabwe since 2018.
Regulatory & Governance
Industry Regulations
Subject to environmental norms regarding plastic waste disposal and water usage. Evolving regulations on single-use plastics (like straws) impact the ready-to-drink beverage segment.
Environmental Compliance
VBL recycled 88% of used PET bottles in CY2024, with a target of 100% by 2025. The company earned a CDP 'A' list rating for Climate and 'A-' for Water Security.
Taxation Policy Impact
Effective tax rate is approximately 23.3% (INR 7,988.04 Cr tax on INR 34,330.89 Cr PBT).
Legal Contingencies
The company maintains a 100% resolution rate for sexual harassment cases. Specific values for pending litigation in High/Supreme courts were not disclosed in the provided text.
Risk Analysis
Key Uncertainties
Integration risk of newly acquired African territories (BevCo, DRC) could impact margins if cost efficiencies are not realized. Geopolitical instability in Africa remains a monitorable.
Geographic Concentration Risk
73% of volume is concentrated in India, making the company highly dependent on the Indian monsoon and summer seasons.
Third Party Dependencies
High dependency on PepsiCo Inc. for franchise rights and concentrate supply; any change in the franchise agreement would be a terminal risk.
Technology Obsolescence Risk
Low risk of obsolescence in the beverage industry, but digital transformation is used to optimize supply chain data from production to point of sale.
Credit & Counterparty Risk
Liquidity is 'Superior' with a cash balance of INR 3,036 Cr as of Dec 2024 and low bank limit utilization (22%).