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General Atlantic takes minority stake in Balaji Wafers at Rs 35,000 cr valuation
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Wednesday, 28 January, 2026, 16 : 00 PM [IST]
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Our Bureau, New Delhi
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Global private equity firm General Atlantic has made a strategic investment in Indian snack maker Balaji Wafers, agreeing to acquire a 7 % minority stake in the company that values the Gujarat-based brand at around Rs 35,000 crore.
Under a definitive agreement, General Atlantic is set to invest approximately Rs 2,000-2,500 crore in Balaji Wafers, marking a significant institutional vote of confidence in the domestic packaged snacks sector. The transaction is expected to bolster the company’s corporate capabilities and support its growth ambitions within India’s fast-expanding chips, namkeen and savoury snacks market.
Founded in 1981 by the Virani family in Rajkot, Balaji Wafers has grown from a regional player to one of India’s leading packaged snack brands, with a strong presence across central and western states and widening distribution nationwide. The company’s portfolio includes potato chips, namkeen, bhujia and other savoury snacks that compete with both domestic and multinational brands.
Industry analysts say the investment reflects growing interest from global investors in Indian consumer brands with deep local roots and robust growth potential. With rising disposable incomes, rapid urbanisation and a shift towards branded, convenient snack options, regional stalwarts like Balaji Wafers are increasingly attracting private equity capital and strategic partnerships.
According to reports, the new capital infusion from General Atlantic will help Balaji enhance its corporate functions, accelerate product innovation and expand its manufacturing and distribution footprint across more Indian states, while preserving the company’s founder-led legacy.
The deal aligns with a broader trend of marquee PE firms investing in India’s food and consumer goods segment, as leading regional brands seek strategic capital to scale operations and professionalise business structures. In recent years, similar investments have targeted other major domestic names, underlining the sector’s appeal to global growth equity investors.
This strategic partnership could also pave the way for Balaji Wafers to explore a future public listing as it positions itself for the next phase of national expansion and competitiveness in the organised snack food market.
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