PepsiCo India announced on Tuesday, 2 April, its plans to invest Rs 1,266 crore in setting up a flavour manufacturing facility in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.

The proposed flavour manufacturing plant, which covers 22 acres, will significantly increase the company’s beverage production in India, generate employment, and positively impact the local economy.

The plant’s construction will start in 2024 and is expected to be fully operational by the first quarter of 2026.

PepsiCo India & South Asia CEO Jagrut Kotecha said, “With support from the government of Madhya Pradesh, we aim to strengthen our footprint while driving impactful progress in enhancing the socio-economic landscape of the region.”

This will be the company’s second flavour manufacturing facility in India, wherein the first facility is located in Channo, Punjab.

George Kovoor, PepsiCo India’s Senior Vice President of beverages, said, “We aim to ramp up the production of our beverages to meet the rising demand in the country. This strategic investment not only strengthens our dedication to providing the highest quality beverages to our consumers but also reinforces our responsibility to drive sustainable practices across our operations.”

The company said that the new manufacturing facility will operate solely on renewable energy sources, reducing its carbon footprint by 1.9 metric tonnes per day.

The flavour manufacturing facility will use zero liquid discharge technology, aiming to achieve 90% overall water efficiency, ensure responsible management of water resources, and replenish 100% of the water used at the facility.