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In a strategic move to diversify beyond its core carbonated beverage portfolio, Indian beverage group Varun Beverages has announced the acquisition of South African dairy company Crickley Dairy through its subsidiary, The Beverage Company (BevCo).

The deal, disclosed via regulatory filings to both the National Stock Exchange of India and BSE Limited, involves BevCo acquiring a 100% equity stake in Crickley Dairy from parent company Clark Holdings.

The transaction is valued at ZAR 238 million (approx. $14 million), subject to regulatory approvals, including clearance from South Africa’s competition authorities.

The acquisition aligns with Varun’s broader strategy to expand into high-growth adjacent categories, particularly value-added dairy and juice-based beverages. Traditionally known as a key bottler for global soft drink brands including Pepsi and Mountain Dew, the company is increasingly looking to tap into evolving consumer demand for functional and nutrition-focused products.

With Crickley Dairy's operations in South Africa’s dairy segment, Varun gains an entry point into a category that complements its existing distribution and cold-chain capabilities in the region.

This move also reinforces Varun Beverages' commitment to expanding its footprint in Africa, a region where BevCo already plays a significant role in the company’s operations. By integrating dairy into its portfolio, Varun can leverage BevCo’s established manufacturing and distribution infrastructure to accelerate a move into the category.

For Varun, the move signals a shift toward becoming a more diversified beverage player alongside its bottling expertise. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals.