Reliance Consumer expands beverage portfolio with majority stake in herbal drinks brand Shunya 

INDIA – Reliance Consumer Products Limited (RCPL), the fast-moving consumer goods arm of Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries, has acquired a majority stake in Naturedge Beverages, the Baidyanath Group-owned company behind herbal drinks brand Shunya.  

The move marks Reliance’s entry into the herbal beverage category, strengthening its growing footprint in the functional drinks market. 

Through this joint venture, RCPL aims to provide a wide range of natural, health-focused beverages catering to India’s rising demand for functional and herbal drinks. The company noted that the strategic investment comes at a time when consumers are shifting toward healthier and more natural alternatives. 

Commenting on the development, RCPL Executive Director Ketan Mody said the partnership reinforces the company’s commitment to building a diverse beverage portfolio.  

“This venture enhances our offerings with Ayurveda-inspired functional drinks and aligns with our vision of providing quality products at affordable prices while promoting India’s heritage,” he stated. 

Founded in 2018, Naturedge Beverages markets its products under the Shunya brand. The beverages contain zero sugar, zero calories, and feature Indian herbs such as Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Khus, Kokum, and green tea.  

“This collaboration is a testament to the brand’s growing popularity. With Reliance’s support, we aim to make Shunya a pan-India brand catering to consumers who want herbal, natural, and refreshing functional drinks,” Director Siddhesh Sharma said. 

This transaction marks the fourth beverage acquisition by Reliance, following earlier takeovers of Campa, Sosyo, and RasKik. The conglomerate has been expanding aggressively in the FMCG segment, extending its portfolio across beverages, chocolates, and confectionery to strengthen its position in the market. 

The timing of the acquisition coincides with robust growth in India’s health drink sector. According to market research firm IMARC, the country’s health drink market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 11.81%, from US$9.63 billion in 2024 to US$28.45 billion in 2033, driven by rising health awareness and demand for functional beverages. 

Meanwhile, RCPL has also been broadening its international presence. Recently, it partnered with Ceylon Cold Stores to launch the Campa Beverages range in Sri Lanka, following the successful entry of Elephant House Beverages into India in 2024.

Additionally, Reliance recently announced a Rs 1,622 crore (US$184.8 million) investment to establish a new Campa Cola bottling facility on 100 acres in Vijayapura district, Karnataka. 

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