Baking the Big League: ChrysCapital Whisks Theobroma into Its Portfolio

Image Source: Moneycontrol

In a record acquisition that marks revived investor interest in India's food services sector, ChrysCapital has acquired 90 percent of Theobroma Foods for ₹2,410 crore. The deal is a complete exit for ICICI Venture, which owned 42 percent, and there is a 10 percent holding by the Messman family, promoters.

Key Highlights
- Theobroma, founded by sisters Tina and Kainaz Messman in 2004, grew from one store in Mumbai to over 200 stores in 30+ cities
- The bakery chain will likely report FY25 revenue of ₹525–550 crore and EBITDA of ₹80–100 crore, compared to ₹400 crore and ₹60 crore respectively in FY24
- The ChrysCapital buy at a valuation below the original ₹3,000 crore price is a sign of market rebasing.

Strategic Intent
- ChrysCapital will build an umbrella platform for quick-service restaurants, with Theobroma as the brand leader
- The company is also looking to acquire additional companies in the QSR segment, including The Belgian Waffle Co
- Arpwood Capital advised the promoters of the deal.

Market Context
- Theobroma once considered an IPO but suspended it due to uncertainty in the market
- The deal is also seen as a bellwether to India's restaurant and café market recovering from muted activity after discretionary spending cuts
- The other bidders included Bain Capital, Carlyle Group, and Switz Group

Investor Outlook
- ChrysCapital's move demonstrates greater faith in scalable, brand-driven food businesses - Theobroma's established brand equity and pan-India presence place it as a consumer foods portfolio strategic asset.

Sources: Economic Times, NewsBytes, Press Insider, M&A Critique, VCCircle.