In the world of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) there can be few success stories as impressive as Varun Beverages Ltd (VBL), a humble family business which has grown to become one of India’s top performing companies. VBL is the second largest franchise holder in the world, outside the US, for PepsiCo, producing and distributing a wide range of soft drinks throughout most of India. It also holds PepsiCo franchises for Nepal, Sri Lanka, Morocco, Zambia and Zimbabwe. It’s operations span across 27 States and 7 Union Territories in India and 5 other countries across the world. The Company is serving more than 1.35 billion customers and has more than 2 million retail outlets with strengthening infrastructure of more than 90 depots, 1,500 primary distributors & 2,500 owned vehicles. Further, it has 37 state-of-the-art production facilities and employs more than 10,000 people. Founding Non Executive Chairman Mr. Ravi Kant Jaipuria believes VBL’s success is firmly based on its employees, many of whom have been with the company for decades. He says the contribution of workers who produce the goods, and those who go out and sell to millions of customers is incalculable. Employees are encouraged to adopt the company’s mantra – concentrating on delivering consumer value with integrity and passion. VBL has seen a strong resurgence following India’s lockdowns, exceeding pre-pandemic levels, as the market improves at a faster than anticipated rate. VBL constantly monitors changes in consumer preferences, and is expanding its nutritional wing, having introduced product innovations, including zero-calorie drinks, energy drinks, and ethnic flavours, demonstrating the company’s innovative approach and forward-thinking. The judging panel, in 2021, is pleased to present Varun Beverages, for the third consecutive year, the award Best FMCG Corporate Governance India.