As summer approaches, companies specializing in cooling products are preparing for an unprecedented demand surge. With temperatures already climbing across various regions, including the West, East, and parts of the North, businesses are ramping up their production and distribution strategies to meet the anticipated needs of consumers during the hotter months.

Record Sales Growth Expected

According to Jayen Mehta, the managing director of the Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), which produces the popular Amul brand, February and early March saw a remarkable sales increase. "We experienced a year-on-year growth of 25-30% during this time and anticipate even stronger sales as summer progresses," Mehta noted. The firm is well-positioned to cater to the rising consumer demand.

Rising Demand for Refreshing Products

Manish Bandlish, MD of Mother Dairy, emphasized the significance of summer for their key product categories, including ice creams, beverages, and curd. "The early onset of summer has already led to a 30-40% year-on-year increase in demand across various channels," he explained. To accommodate this surge, Mother Dairy is enhancing its production capabilities and bolstering its cold chain infrastructure, ensuring that consumers have easy access to their favorite products.

• Key Products in Demand:
  • Ice creams and dairy items like chhaach (buttermilk) and lassi (yogurt drink)
  • Soft drinks, juices, and alcoholic beverages, particularly beer
  • Cooling products like talcum powder and hair oils

Industry Predictions and Insights

Beverage industry leaders predict a 25-30% increase in sales from March to May, building on a 17-18% growth seen in January and February. Paritosh Ladhani, joint MD of SLMG Beverages, which is affiliated with Coca-Cola India, shared optimism about continued growth. "The sales momentum we’ve seen in January and February is expected to persist into March," he stated.

Beer producers are also optimistic, forecasting a 7% year-on-year sales increase due to the warmer weather. The Brewers Association of India anticipates that around 430-440 million cases of beer will be sold in FY25, a growth of 5-7% over the previous year.

Ice Cream Companies Forecast Strong Growth

Ice cream brands are gearing up for a busy season as consumers seek refreshing treats to combat the heat. Mohit Khattar, CEO of Graviss Foods, which operates the Baskin Robbins chain, is confident in achieving strong double-digit growth. "The combination of changing weather patterns and evolving consumer habits positions us well for success," Khattar remarked. With plans to open 120 new stores in FY25, the brand is focused on innovation and premium offerings to meet growing demand.

E-commerce and the Expanding Market

In addition to traditional sales channels, online orders for ice cream are expected to rise significantly, particularly during peak summer months. Komal Anand, MD of Havmor, highlighted the growth potential of the ice cream market in India. "With rising disposable incomes and shifting consumer preferences, the category has substantial room for expansion," Anand stated. He believes that innovation and deeper market penetration, combined with the growth of q-commerce, will drive continued success in the ice cream segment.

As summer approaches, companies are poised to meet a surge in demand for cooling products, making it a season to watch for substantial growth across various sectors.