Tête-À-Tea With Sachin Pabreja: Kailash Agarwal On Haldirams Secret For Mixing Legacy With Fresh Flavours

 Haldiram’s is more than just a snack brand—it’s a household name that has been winning hearts for decades. But in an industry flooded with competition, how does it continue to thrive? In this exclusive interview Kailash Agarwal, President of Haldiram’s, talks about how Haldiram has mastered the art of balancing innovation with tradition. From staying ahead of food trends to keeping the authentic flavours intact, he shares insights into how the brand navigates competition, experiments with new products, and remains a trusted favourite across generations.

1. Haldiram's has a vast and loyal customer base. What do you believe are the key factors that contribute to this enduring love for the brand, spanning across its restaurants, sweets, savouries, and bakery offerings?

Haldiram’s strong legacy, quality, and innovation have built deep customer trust over decades. With a vast product range and a robust distribution network reaching 7M+ retail outlets, we cater to every household. Adapting to evolving consumer needs while maintaining authenticity has ensured our enduring brand loyalty.

2. In a rapidly evolving culinary landscape, how does Haldiram balance its traditional roots with the need to innovate and cater to changing consumer preferences?

Haldiram continuously innovates by introducing new flavours, healthier options, and RTE meals while preserving traditional tastes. Advanced packaging enhances shelf life, and global-inspired snacks cater to diverse palates, ensuring we remain relevant to modern consumers.

3. Research and development play a crucial role in staying ahead in the food industry. Can you share some insights into Haldiram's R&D initiatives and how they contribute to product development and quality enhancement?

Our strong R&D team focuses on product innovation, health-conscious formulations, and quality control. We develop preservative-free, low-fat, and sugar-free options while enhancing packaging to maintain freshness. Sustainable ingredients and advanced safety measures ensure premium quality.

4. Haldiram's restaurants are known for their vibrant and inviting ambience. What is the philosophy behind the restaurant decor, and how does it enhance the overall dining experience for customers?

Haldiram’s restaurants blend Indian heritage with modern functionality. Our warm, family-friendly ambience, efficient self-service model, and structured seating enhance the dining experience. Hygiene, comfort, and seamless service remain our top priorities.

5. With increasing health consciousness among consumers, how does Haldiram address the nutritional aspects of its products while maintaining the authentic taste and flavours that people love?

Haldiram offers healthier choices with sugar-free sweets, baked snacks, and superfood-infused products. Clear labelling, portion control, and fortified ingredients allow consumers to make informed choices while preserving authentic flavours.

6. Haldiram has a strong presence across India and beyond. What are the company's strategies for expanding its reach and catering to diverse markets while maintaining consistent quality and brand identity?

Haldiram’s growth strategy includes expanding its global distribution network, increasing manufacturing facilities, and enhancing its digital presence. We customize products for regional tastes while maintaining stringent quality standards, ensuring seamless availability worldwide.

7. Sustainability is a growing concern for businesses worldwide. What initiatives has Haldiram's undertaken to minimize its environmental footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future?

Haldiram focuses on recyclable packaging, renewable energy adoption, and waste reduction. We prioritize sustainable sourcing and energy-efficient manufacturing to minimize our environmental footprint while supporting local farmers.

8. The food industry is highly competitive. How does Haldiram differentiate itself from other players in the market and maintain its leadership position?

Haldiram’s legacy, diverse product range and commitment to quality set us apart. Our ability to balance tradition with modern convenience, strong global distribution, and digital engagement keeps us ahead of the competition.

9. Haldiram's has a rich legacy and a strong emotional connection with its customers. How does the company leverage this heritage while adapting to modern marketing and communication strategies?

We blend tradition with modern marketing through storytelling, digital engagement, and influencer collaborations. Our omnichannel approach across social media, offline ads, and AI-driven campaigns helps us connect with both traditional and new-age audiences.

10. What is your vision for the future of Haldiram, and what are the key priorities for the company in the coming years?

Haldiram aims for sustainable global expansion, healthier product innovations, and a stronger digital presence. Priorities include eco-friendly packaging, D2C sales growth, and increasing restaurant footprints through QSRs and premium dining setups.