L Catterton, the largest global consumer-focused investment firm, has entered into a definitive agreement to invest in Nandhana Foods, a leading restaurant group specializing in South Indian cuisine.
The investment will support Nandhana Foods’ next phase of growth and enable the group to achieve greater scale by leveraging L Catterton’s industry expertise and operating capabilities.
L Catteryon has invested $30 million (about Rs 288 crore) for a double digit minority stake in the company, said sources.
South Indian cuisine is one of the largest segments of India’s burgeoning food services market. Propelled by secular trends such as the rising per capita expenditure on dining out and food delivery services, as well as the increasing number of consumption occasions, the segment is expected to witness strong growth led by iconic brands like Nandhana Foods.
Nandhana Foods has been offering authentic South Indian cuisine for over three decades, with a keen focus on taste, authenticity, food quality, freshness, and menu variety. Together with its unique and customizable spice profile, this dedication has enabled it to cultivate a loyal customer base.
Vikram Kumaraswamy, partner, L Catterton said Nandhana Foods’ founding family has built a distinctive and scalable business with a strong consumer proposition and attractive unit economics.
It has expanded the business in a disciplined manner and ensured that its restaurants remain anchored in high quality and consistency, he said.
There is significant headroom for additional growth by further deepening and broadening its presence in South India and penetrating other markets, he added.
Dr R Ravichandar, founder and Managing Director, Nandhana Foods said L Catterton has a profound grasp of the organisational DNA and an intricate understanding of the restaurant industry.
“We are excited about tapping into its astute insights and proven know-how to strengthen our operations in line with our commitment to providing high-quality food and service to our customers,” he added.
L Catterton has invested in about 30 restaurant businesses till date, with current and past portfolio companies in the space including Dishoom, P.F. Chang’s, Velvet Taco, Baja Fresh, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Cigierre, HUGE, Impresario, and Mendocino Farms.