Pune: LOTTE has inaugurated one of its largest and most advanced ice cream manufacturing facilities in Pune marking a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy.
The event was graced by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Minister of Industries Uday Samant, Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, LOTTE Group Chairman Dong Bin Shin, and Seong Ho Lee, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to India.
Built on a 60,000 sqm area and with an initial annual production capacity of 50 million liters, scalable up to 100 million liters in the coming years, the Pune facility is designed to meet rising consumer demand, particularly during India’s peak summer season.
Currently operating nine production lines, the plant is set to expand to 16 lines, supporting a diverse range of ice cream products. The factory is equipped with high-speed machines and automated robotic systems to enhance efficiency and maintain superior product quality.
This ₹500 crore investment is expected to generate over 1,000 jobs within two years, contributing significantly to the local economy. The facility will serve as a growth catalyst for Havmor Ice Cream, helping it accelerate expansion over the next three years.
Dong Bin Shin, Chairman of LOTTE Group, said, "India is a crucial part of our global operations, and our growth here has paralleled the nation’s rapid economic development. Since introducing LOTTE Choco Pie in 2004 and acquiring Havmor in 2017, our aim has been to make Havmor the most cherished ice cream brand in India. As 'Havmor' and 'LOTTE India' merge this year, we remain dedicated to investment, innovation, and delivering high-quality products to our Indian consumers."
Paul Yi, CEO of LOTTE Wellfood Co. Ltd., highlighted the strategic importance of the expansion: "By establishing one of our largest ice cream facilities in Pune, we are not only strengthening our global operations but also enhancing the legacy of Havmor in India. Our vision is to make Havmor a household name across the country. With a focus on product innovation, advanced distribution, and unwavering quality, we will continue to prioritize customer satisfaction while expanding our reach in India."
Komal Anand, Managing Director of Havmor Ice Cream, India, further emphasized the potential for growth: "LOTTE views India as a high-potential market, and this investment reflects our confidence in its future. Compared to other Asian nations, India's per capita ice cream consumption remains low, offering significant room for expansion. Our goal is to introduce internationally popular products, delighting Indian consumers through this state-of-the-art facility."
