RIL (Reliance Industries) acquired Top 5 companies

Have you ever wondered why Reliance Industries is always in the spotlight? After launching Jio, it played a major role in the Indian telecom sector. Similarly, Reliance started Trends and made a name for itself in the retail industry.

But did you know that Reliance excels in another area as well? That is strategic acquisitions!

Over the years, this corporate giant has expanded its presence in various sectors, including healthcare, FMCG, retail, and even entertainment. Interestingly, most of Reliance’s listed companies are its acquired firms.

Reliance Industries has always entered new markets and quickly taken the lead. This applies to both domestic and international markets. A significant part of its success has come from acquired companies.

Today, we will discuss the companies Reliance has acquired, the reasons behind these acquisitions, and other key aspects. So, without any delay, let’s dive into this topic.

1. Netmeds

Netmeds Healthcare Limited was founded in 2015 and emerged as a major player in India’s pharmaceutical retail sector. Initially, it focused on business consultancy, tech services, and doctor consultations. Additionally, Netmeds introduced diagnostic and customer subscription services.

In August 2020, Reliance Retail Ventures Limited (RRVL) acquired a 60% stake in Vitalic Health Pvt. Ltd. (Netmeds’ parent company) for ₹620 crore. This acquisition included Netmeds’ subsidiaries, such as:

• Tresara Health Pvt. Ltd.
• Netmeds Marketplace Ltd.
• Dadha Pharma Distribution Pvt. Ltd.

Reliance acquired Netmeds to strengthen its position in the healthcare sector and provide affordable healthcare products and services to millions of Indian households. This move gave Reliance a strong entry into the digital pharmacy market.

2. Lotus Chocolate Company Ltd.

You might be surprised to hear that Reliance acquired a chocolate company, but it’s true! Reliance Consumer Products Limited (RCPL) purchased a 51% stake in Lotus Chocolate Company Ltd. (LCCL) for ₹74 crore.

Established in 1988, Lotus Chocolate is one of India’s leading chocolate manufacturers, supplying products to major brands like Amul, Mother Dairy, and Parle.

Reliance acquired LCCL to strengthen its presence in the FMCG market and compete with major players like Nestlé India and Britannia Industries.

3. Hamleys

Hamleys, the iconic London-based toy brand known as “The Finest Toy Shop in the World,” was founded in 1760 by William Hamley.

Reliance initially entered into a franchise agreement with Hamleys in 2010 and opened 88 stores in India. However, in 2019, Reliance Brands Limited acquired a 100% stake in Hamleys for £68 million (approximately ₹620 crore).

Reliance made this acquisition because Hamleys was performing well in India but struggling internationally. Additionally, Hamleys had a strong retail network but needed global brand recognition.

4. JioSaavn

Saavn, founded in 2007, was one of India’s leading music streaming platforms. In 2018, Reliance acquired a 41.1% stake in Saavn for ₹805.84 crore.

The goal behind this acquisition was to enhance Reliance’s Jio ecosystem by offering a robust music streaming service. Saavn also had a strong presence in the U.S. market, providing Reliance an opportunity to expand Indian music’s reach internationally.

5. Campa Cola

Campa Cola was a well-known brand in the Indian soft drink market, but with the entry of Coca-Cola and Pepsi in the 1990s, its market share declined. By 2009, Campa Cola had almost disappeared.

However, in 2022, Reliance acquired Campa Cola for ₹22 crore and relaunched it. Reliance’s objective was to establish Campa Cola as a strong brand in the FMCG sector and compete with Coca-Cola and Pepsi.

Through its strategic acquisitions, Reliance Industries has strengthened its position not only in India but also on the global stage. These are not just random acquisitions; they are well-thought-out moves where Reliance has invested in new sectors and left its mark.

Reliance has proven that it is ready to compete not just in the Indian market but also at the global level. It has shown the ability to challenge international brands in the Indian market.