3 Cousin’s Beverage Startup ‘Lahori’ Eyes Rs.400 Crore Investment to Bolster Growth
3 Cousin's Beverage Startup 'Lahori' Eyes Rs.400 Crore Investment to Bolster Growth
The Chandigarh-based beverage startup plans to triple its valuation while expanding production and distribution across India.
Lahori, a rapidly growing beverage manufacturer specializing in desi-flavored carbonated drinks, is in advanced discussions with investors to raise ₹400 crore. The funding round is expected to significantly boost the company’s valuation from ₹900 crore in 2021 to an estimated ₹2,600–2,700 crore. Notable investors in talks include the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) and Motilal Oswal Financial Services, alongside existing investor Verlinvest, which may partially divest its 21.2% stake.
Unique Offerings and Rapid Expansion
Founded in 2017 by cousins Saurabh Munjal, Saurabh Bhutna, and Nikhil Doda under Archian Foods, Lahori has carved out a niche in India’s competitive beverage market. Its flagship product, Lahori Zeera—a cumin-flavored carbonated drink—has become a regional favorite. Other beverages in its portfolio include Nimboo, Kacha Aam, and Shikanji, all crafted with natural ingredients and traditional techniques.
The brand has a robust offline presence, contributing 99% of its sales, and operates through a network of over 500 distributors. Its beverages are especially popular in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh, with recent expansions into eight additional states.
Financial Growth and Market Presence
In FY22, Lahori reported revenue of over ₹250 crore, a dramatic rise from ₹80 crore in FY21. By FY23-24, revenues had grown by nearly 50%, reaching ₹312 crore. Lahori projects revenue to touch ₹500 crore this year, backed by the increasing popularity of its regional flavors. The company aims to achieve ₹1,000 crore in revenue in the near future.
Scaling Production to Meet Demand
Lahori operates a fully automated manufacturing facility in Roopnagar, Punjab, and another unit in Gujarat. Plans are underway to increase daily production capacity from 5 million to 8 million bottles with the establishment of a new manufacturing unit in Uttar Pradesh.
Sector and Competition
India’s non-alcoholic beverage market, currently valued at ₹67,000 crore, is projected to grow to ₹1.5 lakh crore by 2030, according to the Indian Beverage Association. Lahori faces competition from established players like Reliance Retail, which acquired Campa Cola in 2022 and invested in Sosyo Hajoori Beverages, signaling increasing interest in regional and traditional drink segments.
With its innovative approach, robust growth, and planned capacity expansion, Lahori is well-positioned to thrive in the evolving beverage market.
