Birla Opus Focuses on Organic Growth

25 Nov 2024 CW Team

Birla Opus, the paints division of the Aditya Birla Group, is not pursuing inorganic growth opportunities, as confirmed by its CEO Rakshit Hargave. This statement comes amidst speculation that Grasim Industries, which houses Birla Opus, was interested in acquiring Akzo Nobel India, a company with a 5% market share in the Indian paints sector. Akzo Nobel had announced in October its openness to a partnership or sale, leading to media reports naming Asian Paints and Grasim Industries as potential buyers.

During a post-earnings analyst call, Hargave clarified that no acquisition plans are currently underway, reiterating a statement previously made by Grasim’s CFO. Birla Opus has so far invested ?8,470 crore—about 85% of the planned capital expenditure—in its paints business, demonstrating a significant commitment to organic growth.

Market conditions for paint makers have been challenging, with weaker demand and competitive pricing affecting profitability across the sector. However, Hargave downplayed concerns, stating that the impact of competition on growth is somewhat exaggerated.

This focused strategy aligns with Birla Opus's long-term vision to strengthen its position in the paints market without pursuing acquisitions at this stage.

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