Reliance acquires Big Bazaar for Rs 24,713 crore

Reliance Retail Ventures Limited (RRVL), subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited, announced that it is acquiring the retail and wholesale business and the logistics and warehousing business from the Future Group, the owner of largest retail chain Big Bazaar and in-house brand FBB, for Rs 24,713 crore, subject to adjustments as set-out in the composite scheme of arrangement (Scheme).

The acquisition is being done as part of the Scheme in which Future Group is merging certain companies carrying on the aforesaid businesses into Future Enterprises Limited (FEL). As a part of the same Scheme:

(i) the Retail & Wholesale Undertaking is being transferred to Reliance Retail and Fashion Lifestyle Limited (RRFLL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of RRVL;

(ii) the Logistics & Warehousing Undertaking is being transferred to RRVL; and

(iii) RRFLL also proposes to invest:

(a) Rs 1,200 crore in the preferential issue of equity shares of FEL to acquire 6.09 % of post-merger equity; and

(b) Rs 400 crore in a preferential issue of equity warrants which, upon conversion and payment of balance 75% of the issue price, will result in RRFLL acquiring further 7.05% of FEL.

Isha Ambani, Director, Reliance Retail Ventures Limited, said, "With this transaction, we are pleased to provide a home to the renowned formats and brands of Future Group as well as preserve its business ecosystem, which have played an important role in the evolution of modern retail in India. We hope to continue the growth momentum of the retail industry with our unique model of active collaboration with small merchants and kiranas as well as large consumer brands. We are committed to continue providing value to our consumers across the country."

The acquisition of the retail, wholesale and supply chain business of the Future Group complements and makes a strong strategic fit into Reliance’s retail business, the company said in a press statement. “This will help Reliance retail to accelerate providing support to millions of small merchants in increasing their competitiveness and enhance their income during these challenging times.”

RRVL is a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited, carrying on the Consumer Supply Chain Business and Consumer Retail Business through its subsidiaries. RRVL reported a consolidated Turnover of Rs 162,936 crore and net profit of Rs 5,448 crore for the year ended March 31, 2020. Future Group’s portfolio composition in apparel, general merchandise and own FMCG brands will allow for a wider offering to its customers.

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