Varun Beverages, led by billionaire Ravi Jaipuria, has finalized a deal to purchase PepsiCo’s bottling operations in Ghana for $15.1 million, marking a significant expansion of its African presence.
This acquisition is part of a larger $169.6 million agreement, which also includes operations in Tanzania.
The purchase will give Varun Beverages full control over Pepsi’s bottling and distribution network in Ghana, incorporating SBC Beverages Ghana Limited (SBCG), which manufactures and distributes PepsiCo products, including Pepsi, 7UP, Mirinda, and Mountain Dew, as well as its own brand, Cheetah energy drinks.
SBCG’s manufacturing facility, located in Accra, will be integrated into Varun Beverages’ existing operations across Africa, where the company already has a footprint in countries like Morocco and Zambia.
The acquisition allows Varun to strengthen its regional operations and expand its production capabilities, further cementing its dominance in the East African beverage market.
Varun Beverages, a key PepsiCo franchisee, has been manufacturing and distributing PepsiCo products across several countries, including India, where it holds a prominent position in the beverage market.
Along with the Ghana deal, Varun also acquired SBC Tanzania for $154.5 million, reflecting its broader strategy of securing a strong base in Africa.
Ravi Jaipuria, whose wealth is estimated at $16 billion, oversees Varun Beverages through his conglomerate, RJ Corp, which also operates in sectors like fast food and healthcare. Jaipuria expressed excitement about the deal, noting its potential to expand the company’s operations in both Ghana and Tanzania, ultimately increasing beverage production to millions of cases annually.
This acquisition aligns with Varun Beverages’ long-term plan to grow its presence in global markets while continuing to distribute iconic PepsiCo beverages.