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McCain Foods is set to expand its frozen potato processing capacity in Gujarat through the acquisition of Falcon Agrifriz Foods’ frozen potato processing business.
The deal will add a modern, purpose-built processing facility to McCain’s existing operations in Mehsana, Gujarat, strengthening its manufacturing network to meet rising demand for frozen potato products in domestic and international markets.
Falcon Agrifriz operates a fully automated facility that produces a range of frozen potato products. The business employs more than 450 people and works with over 1,000 farmers across Gujarat.
According to McCain Foods, the addition of the facility will provide greater flexibility across its manufacturing network and enhance its ability to serve customers in India and key export markets.
Pierre Danet, regional president, Asia Pacific and South Africa at McCain Foods, said: “India continues to be a priority growth market for McCain Foods. This acquisition reflects our confidence in the Indian market and builds on nearly three decades of continued investment in our people, local operations and agricultural partnerships.”
He added: “By strengthening our manufacturing network, we will be better positioned to grow alongside our customers, growers and communities for the long term.”
Since entering India in 1998, McCain has built a nationwide presence, employing more than 940 people directly and partnering with over 2,500 farmers across the country.
The proposed acquisition follows the completion of a CAD 135 million (approximately US$94.7 million) expansion of its existing Gujarat operations. The investment created 110 full-time jobs and 150 contract positions.
Parthajeet Patnaik, vice chairman of Falcon Agrifriz, highlighted: “We are proud of the modern, fully automated processing facility we have built at Falcon Agrifriz in less than two years, and especially proud of the talented employees and growers who have helped bring it to life".
Manish Tibrewal, director and CEO of Falcon Agrifriz, said the agreement would allow the business to build on its existing operations and capitalise on growth opportunities in India's frozen food market.
McCain plans to bring Falcon Agrifriz’s employees and farming partners into its broader Indian network once the acquisition is completed.
Aditya Krishna, managing director of McCain Foods India, said: “Our success in India has been built alongside our people, growers, customers and communities. We look forward to welcoming Falcon employees and growers to the McCain network and continuing to create local employment opportunities and support regional industrial development as we enter the next phase of our long-term growth in India.”
