PVR INOX has sold its entire stake in gourmet popcorn brand 4700BC to Marico Limited for Rs 226.8 crore in an all cash transaction, marking a clean exit from its snacking venture as the multiplex operator sharpens focus on its core exhibition business.
The deal involves the sale of Zea Maize Private Limited, the entity that owns and operates 4700BC. PVR INOX said the decision followed a strategic review of non core assets and is expected to strengthen the company’s balance sheet. The transaction is also projected to be positive for profit, cash flows and key return ratios. The company clarified that the sale will not impact in cinema food and beverage revenues, which remain central to its theatre experience strategy.
Launched as a niche gourmet popcorn offering, 4700BC expanded into a premium packaged snacking brand with national presence across modern trade, ecommerce and quick commerce platforms. PVR INOX backed the brand through its early years, helping build visibility and consumer recall beyond cinema halls.
For Marico, the acquisition adds a fast growing food brand to its portfolio as it deepens its play in premium snacking. The FMCG major plans to scale distribution, widen channel presence and accelerate new product development for 4700BC, while retaining its premium positioning. In FY25, Marico reported a turnover of Rs 10.8 billion from India and select international markets across Asia and Africa, reflecting its strong operating base to scale consumer brands.
PVR INOX said the exit allows it to redeploy capital into core priorities including premium large format screens, immersive viewing technologies and expanded programming formats. The company’s portfolio spans child friendly auditoriums, advanced projection and sound, and curated in cinema food offerings.
Axis Capital advised PVR INOX on the transaction, with legal counsel provided by Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas.
