Parle-G, a brand synonymous with households across India, has been a staple in the lives of every Indian, young or old. The family at the helm of this iconic brand is the Chauhan family, the proud owners of Parle, a company renowned for its diverse FMCG offerings, including popular brands like Hide&Seek, Marie, and various other biscuits.
While their product line is extensive, it is Parle-G that stands out, generating an impressive revenue of over Rs 17,000 crore, and notably, without a price hike for several years.
In 2012, Parle-G made history as the first FMCG company in India to surpass Rs 5000 crore in retail sales in a single year.
The journey began in the 1920s when Mohanlal Chauhan, a visionary from Gujarat, founded Parle G with dreams of building a prosperous business. The enterprise involved all five of his sons – Maneklal, Pitambar, Narottam, Kantilal, and Jayantilal – working together in their father’s shop.
Investing Rs 60,000 of his savings, Mohanlal Chauhan imported machines from Germany, introducing advanced technology to India.
Parle G gained prominence in independent India, offering an affordable Indian alternative to British snacks. The company expanded its horizon by venturing into soft drinks, challenging even the mighty Coca-Cola. Thums Up, Gold Spot, Limca, and Frooti were among the well-received beverages introduced by Parle Products.
Renowned for their affordability and consistent flavor, Parle-G biscuits earned the title of the world’s best-selling biscuit in a 2011 Nielsen report.
Today, the legacy is managed by Vijay Chauhan and his family, the grandsons and descendants of the company’s founder, Mohanlal Chauhan.
The leadership of Parle Products now rests in the capable hands of Vijay, Sharad, and Raj Chauhan, overseeing an extensive brand portfolio that includes Parle-G, 20-20, Magix, Milkshakti, Melody, Mango Bite, Poppins, Londonderry, Kismi Toffee Bar, Monaco, and KrackJack.
As of Forbes 2022 data, Vijay Chauhan and his family boast a net worth of USD 5.5 billion, equivalent to Rs 45,579 crore, solidifying their status as key players in India’s thriving FMCG industry.
