PepsiCo to Invest Rs 778 Crore in New Assam Plant, Aims to Boost Local Economy

GUWAHATI: PepsiCo India, a leading name in the global food and beverage industry, is embarking on a significant venture in the northeastern state of Assam, India. The company has unveiled plans to invest a substantial sum of Rs 778 crore in the establishment of a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in the Nalbari district of Assam. This strategic move is not only a testament to PepsiCo's commitment to the Indian market but also a proactive step towards fostering economic development and sustainability in the region.

Spread across a sprawling 44.2-acre expanse, the new PepsiCo India manufacturing plant is poised to become a pivotal economic contributor to the local landscape. Anticipated to be fully operational by 2025, this facility is expected to generate gainful employment opportunities for at least 500 individuals from the region. This employment drive aligns with PepsiCo's broader strategy to empower local communities and enhance employability in Assam.

One of the remarkable aspects of this venture is PepsiCo India's pledge to procure a substantial quantity of 50,000 tonnes of potatoes from Assam-based sources. These locally sourced potatoes will play a crucial role in the production of the company's beloved Lay's chips, further strengthening the bond between PepsiCo and Assam's agricultural sector.

Eugene Willemsen, the CEO of PepsiCo's Africa, Middle East, and South Asia (AMESA) region, expressed the significance of India as one of the fastest-growing markets for the company in this expansive region. He emphasized that the new manufacturing facility in Assam underscores PepsiCo's enduring commitment to India's economic development by nurturing an equitable and sustainable ecosystem.

Additionally, PepsiCo India has entered into a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Assam Skill Development Mission and the Directorate of Employment and Craftsman Training. This collaborative effort aims to bolster employability, particularly among women in the region. By creating diverse employment opportunities and empowering the local farming community, PepsiCo India is aligning itself with the government's vision of achieving self-sufficiency in potato production. The company's skilling initiatives, as part of this partnership, will focus on fostering economic empowerment among the women of Assam, providing them with essential training and equal opportunities.

PepsiCo's substantial investment in Assam reflects not only its corporate ambitions but also its dedication to supporting local economies, sustainable agriculture, and female empowerment in the region. This venture is poised to create a significant positive impact on Assam's economic landscape and strengthen the ties between a global industry leader and the vibrant state of Assam.

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