Reliance Consumer Products is reportedly in the final stretch of negotiations to acquire a controlling stake in Shunya, a zero-sugar, herb-infused beverage brand from Naturedge Beverages. If the deal is sealed, it will mark Reliance’s fourth foray into the beverage sector, adding to its growing portfolio that already includes Campa, Sosyo, and RasKik.
Shunya, launched in 2018 by Siddhesh Sharma—descendant of the family behind the century-old Baidyanath Group—is known for its functional drinks that blend herbal ingredients with fruit flavours like zesty orange and apple. Naturedge is a relatively young player but has carved a niche by offering alternatives to sugar-heavy drinks, targeting the health-aware urban consumer.
The acquisition is expected to give Reliance a stronger footing in the growing category of wellness-focused beverages. While exact numbers around the deal remain confidential, those familiar with the matter say it’s a strategic move aimed at capitalising on India’s increasing tilt toward healthier drink options.
Interest in zero-sugar drinks has exploded in recent years. Though still small compared to traditional fizzy sodas, this segment is seeing some of the fastest growth, especially in metro cities. With major names like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Tata Consumer, and Dabur ramping up their own efforts in the space, Reliance seems to be moving quickly to establish its presence.
“This move could allow Reliance to create a whole new vertical around plant-based and functional hydration products, which is a smart shift considering changing consumer preferences,” said a senior executive tracking the space.
So far, neither Reliance Consumer nor Naturedge’s parent, Baidyanath Group, has made any formal announcements regarding the talks.
This is part of a broader pattern for Reliance, which has been scooping up mid-sized Indian brands across multiple fast-moving consumer categories. Apart from its beverage buys, the company also owns confectionery labels like Toffeeman and Ravalgaon, has acquired Lotus in the chocolate segment, and picked up Sil Foods, which is known for its sauces and spreads.
Sources say Reliance has committed nearly ₹8,000 crore toward scaling up its beverage production footprint over the next year or so. Its plans include launching new plants and expanding co-manufacturing partnerships to support nationwide distribution. The company’s FMCG unit only kicked off in 2022 but is rapidly positioning itself as a serious player.
According to internal estimates and data from NielsenIQ, the market for low- and no-sugar drinks saw a dramatic jump in 2024, with sales doubling compared to the previous year. The shift is being driven largely by young, urban consumers who are actively seeking healthier lifestyle choices.
If the Shunya deal goes through, Reliance won’t just be adding another name to its roster—it will be stepping further into the evolving health beverage scene, right as competition in the category starts heating up.
