Company strengthens local production and distribution to expand K-food presence in India
Lotte Wellfood is accelerating its expansion in India following the integration of its confectionery and ice cream businesses, with its unified operating structure delivering stronger production capabilities and wider market reach across one of the world's fastest-growing consumer markets.
The company announced that first-half sales at LOTTE India, its integrated Indian subsidiary combining confectionery and ice cream operations, increased approximately 28% year over year. According to the company, its "ONE INDIA" strategy, introduced last year, has begun generating tangible results by improving manufacturing efficiency and expanding sales channels.
The ice cream business was the primary growth driver during the first half of the year. Revenue from the segment rose 29% compared with the same period last year, supported by the successful ramp-up of the company's new ice cream manufacturing plant in Pune. Since beginning full-scale operations in February last year, the facility has significantly expanded production capacity to meet rapidly growing demand for ice cream in India.
Ice cream production during the first half surged approximately 85% year over year, enhancing the company's ability to respond to peak seasonal demand. Leveraging the Pune facility, Lotte Wellfood is also expanding a product lineup tailored to local consumer preferences while introducing Korean favorites such as Krunch (Pig Bar), Watermelon Bar, and Shark (Jaws Bar) to strengthen the competitiveness of K-ice cream in the Indian market.
The confectionery business also maintained solid momentum, posting a 26% increase in first-half sales from a year earlier. The company attributed the growth to the expansion of its distribution network through traditional retail outlets, which continue to account for a significant share of India's consumer goods market.
Lotte Wellfood is further expanding its production base by preparing to launch a fourth production line for Lotte Choco Pie at its Rohtak plant in Haryana. The company plans to strengthen local supply capabilities for flagship products while enhancing brand recognition in India through global brands including Choco Pie and Pepero.
The integration of the Indian business is also expected to generate additional operational synergies. By connecting previously separate regional operations across southern, northern, and western India, the company is streamlining manufacturing and logistics networks to improve both cost competitiveness and operational efficiency. The unified structure is designed to enable faster responses to market changes while supporting sales strategies tailored to regional consumer preferences.
India has emerged as one of the most important growth markets for global food companies, driven by its large population, expanding middle class, and rising consumer spending. Industry observers believe Lotte Wellfood's continued investment in local manufacturing and distribution will strengthen its long-term competitiveness by reducing reliance on imports and establishing a more stable supply chain.
Operating both confectionery and ice cream businesses under a single organization also allows the company to balance seasonal demand. Ice cream sales typically peak during warmer months, while confectionery products such as Choco Pie and Pepero generate relatively stable demand throughout the year, helping create a more balanced revenue structure.
Building on this momentum, Lotte Wellfood aims to grow LOTTE India into a comprehensive food company generating KRW 1 trillion (approximately US$730 million) in annual revenue by 2032. The company plans to further strengthen its local production capabilities and brand competitiveness while expanding its position as a leading K-food company in the Indian market.
