SCALING NEW HEIGHTS

Britannia Industries MD Varun Berry adds a generous sprinkling of his signature wit while speaking about forging relationships, his mantra for success, and the intertwining of his own values with the legendary food company

- PRIYANCA VAISHNAV

One of the greatest rewards and as big a responsibility of rising up the corporate ladder is to lead a legacy brand. In the case of Varun Berry, it happens to be the century-old total foods business, Britannia Industries, as its Managing Director. Having to carry forward the endowment of some of India’s most beloved snack brands such as Good Day, Tiger, NutriChoice, Milk Bikis and Marie Gold, Berry had in front of him a tall order. But for the 6ft 4in tall gentleman with a funny bone, there’s definitely ain’t no mountain high enough!

Over the past six years, Berry has not only kept Britannia afloat, but rather buoyant and expanding. From the unique launch of Good Day Chunkies, to celebrating 60 years of Bourbon, introducing the classic bridge product — the Cake Biscotti — to joining hands with international players to offer Indians premium croissants, Berry seems to not have the word “limit” in his dictionary, even if he wanted me to take a break just a day before Diwali when we did this interview.

From a sales turnover of ₹6,135 crore in 2012-13, when he joined, Britannia’s products in biscuits, bread, cakes, rusk, and dairy products including cheese, beverages, milk and yoghurt yielded a turnover of ₹10, 975 crore in 2018-19. It is not surprising that "Britannia products are available across the country in close to 5.5 million retail outlets and reach over 67 per cent Indian homes.” Such phenomenal growth is the outcome of phenomenal leadership. And among aspects that characterise remarkable leadership, establishing relationships is paramount.

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