AVA Group acquires Melam brand; expands into condiments and foods business
The AVA Group manufacturers and markets the leading Medimix and Divine brand of soaps, and allied products in southern India. The Group has six manufacturing facilities in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Pondicherry.
Now the AVA Group would be expanding with the foods business by acquiring (for an undisclosed amount), the Kerala based Melam brand of masalas, curry powders, spices, pickles, jams and sauces, rice and other products from M V J Foods (India) Pvt. Ltd.
Melam is one of the oldest brands in Kerala, started in 1992 and has a strong domestic and export presence. Melam products are exported to Middle East and Far East countries, US, UK, Singapore and Australia.
“We are glad to expand into the food business. Both the AVA Group’s Medimix brand and Melam are household names built on quality and social commitment. We would like to build on this heritage and also expand into newer markets in India and overseas.” He added, “In India, initially we would like to expand into Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.” Said Mr A.V.Anoop, Chairman and Managing Director, AVA Group.
“Melam has been a pioneering brand that has connected deeply with Keralites and Malayalees across the country and overseas. The AVA Group and M V J Foods’ share common traits, especially a focus on manufacturing quality products. The acquisition by the AVA Group will add to its strength and reach in other geographies”, Said Dr. Kurian John Melamparambil, Chairman and Managing Director, M V J Foods (India) Pvt.Ltd.
The genius behind Melam is Padmashree Late Ms. Thangam Philip, the eminent food, catering and nutrition expert her recipes are carried on each of Melam’s product packs. Melam has been awarded the Indian Spices Logo and the Spice House Certificate as a mark of distinction by the Spices Board, Ministry of Commerce, Government of India due to its quality and ‘Indianess’.