In July 2023, Beyond Snack, a leader in India's banana chip market, received a game-changing investment of 3.5 million euros. This funding has propelled the company's ambitious growth plans both within India and internationally.

Manas Madhu, the Co-founder of Beyond Snack, shares how the company is utilizing the investment to fuel its expansion, innovate, and revolutionize the banana chip industry.

Banana Chips Production in Factories | Advanced Processing of Millions of Bananas

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<h3>New Factory and Expansion Plans</h3>

The opening of a new factory in Tumkur, Karnataka, marks a significant step in Beyond Snack's expansion. Tumkur, strategically located just two hours from Bangalore Airport, provides significant logistical advantages. Madhu explains that choosing Tumkur for the new facility was not only about proximity to major transportation hubs but also about reducing shipping time from Kerala and other raw material sources.

The factory currently boasts a production capacity of 200 tons per month, but plans are already in place to expand this figure to between 600 and 800 tons in the coming years. This increase in capacity is essential to meet the growing demand for Beyond Snack's products. "This factory will be the engine driving our growth plans," says Madhu.

<h3>Domestic and Global Growth</h3>

Beyond Snack's presence has traditionally been strong in the Maharashtra region, but the brand has expanded rapidly since receiving funding. The company is now establishing a foothold in northern regions like Punjab, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh, as well as increasing its presence in the eastern and southern parts of India. "Our goal is to position Beyond Snack as a national leader in the banana chip category," Madhu adds.

Beyond domestic growth, the company is also making significant strides internationally. Currently, Beyond Snack products are sold in 15 countries, including the US, UK, Sweden, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. While initial consumption in these countries is largely from the Indian diaspora, the company is working to expand beyond this group. "We are aiming for wider international appeal, targeting Western markets and the Middle East with a strategic, brand-driven approach," Madhu notes.

<h3>Distribution Strategy: E-commerce to General Trade</h3>

Beyond Snack's distribution strategy is diverse and well-rounded, utilizing general trade (GT), modern trade, quick commerce, and e-commerce platforms. Initially, the pandemic forced the company to focus on e-commerce, but since receiving funding, they have made significant inroads in the general trade market, which involves traditional retail outlets. "We have expanded our reach and now have products available in over 14,000 outlets across India," explains Madhu. The focus remains on ensuring the products are easily accessible across all distribution channels, continuing to prioritize growth in the general trade market.

<h3>Product Innovation and Differentiation</h3>

A key focus for Beyond Snack is the continuous innovation of their product offerings. "Banana chips never received the attention they deserved, but we are changing that," says Madhu. Beyond Snack has introduced exciting flavor variations and new formats, such as crinkle-cut banana chips, to cater to evolving consumer preferences.

One of the standout innovations is the use of refined coconut oil for cooking their banana chips. While traditional banana chips are cooked in crude coconut oil, Beyond Snack has developed a refined version with a higher smoking point, making it perfect for deep frying. This process enhances the product's quality, improves its health benefits, and removes the overpowering smell often associated with coconut oil.

<h3>Technological Integration and Sustainability</h3>

Technology plays a crucial role in Beyond Snack's operations, from raw material standardization to precise slicing and cooking. The company's use of modern technology ensures that their products maintain high quality and consistency. "The traditional methods of making banana chips are outdated, and we are bringing technological advancements to every step of production," says Madhu.

Sustainability is also at the heart of Beyond Snack's operations. The company works directly with farmers and farmer groups to source raw materials, ensuring ethical practices and high-quality ingredients. Madhu adds, "We are closely collaborating with farmers to implement better farming practices and technologies, aiming to improve the quality of the crops for the long term."

<h3>Looking to the Future</h3>

As Beyond Snack moves forward, the company's vision is clear: to become a globally recognized brand. "Our goal is to have Beyond Snack products available on retail shelves around the world," says Madhu. The company's long-term objective is to build a brand that originates in India but has a significant global presence. By associating Kerala, the heart of the banana chip industry, with Beyond Snack, the company hopes to revolutionize the banana chip market worldwide.

With a clear strategy for both domestic and international expansion, a focus on product innovation, and a commitment to sustainability, Beyond Snack is poised to lead the banana chip market. The company's dedication to quality, technology, and ethical sourcing will ensure that Beyond Snack continues to grow and thrive, becoming a household name in both India and the international food industry.