Indian food chain A2B, also known as Adyar Ananda Bhavan, has received a major investment of $180 million (over ₹1,600 crore) from Bodhi Tree Systems. This deal was co-founded by James Murdoch, the son of media mogul Rupert Murdoch, and Uday Shankar. The 50-year-old brand has sold a majority stake in this transaction.
The deal values A2B at approximately $350 million, with Uday Shankar set to lead the company’s new board as chairperson. Veda Corporate Advisers acted as the financial advisor for A2B during the process.
Vishnu Shankar, from A2B’s founding family, confirmed the investment and shared that the funds will be used to expand into new markets both in India and internationally. The chain currently focuses on south Indian vegetarian dishes and sweets, with plans to target western India and Europe for growth. Modernizing factories in Chennai and Bengaluru is also part of the strategy, along with exploring a new factory to meet retail and export demands.
Founded in the late 1970s, A2B has strong roots in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka and operates around 160 restaurants and sweet stores across India. It also has 32 outlets overseas, including locations in Singapore, the U.S., and Australia. The company sells packaged foods through retail and online channels and employs over 15,000 people.
This investment marks Bodhi Tree’s third major move, following deals with ALLEN Career Institute and JioStar. Balachandar R., director of Junior Kuppanna, believes regional brands like A2B have significant potential in the food and beverage industry, predicting a rise in listed companies in this space over the next decade.
A2B’s expansion plans aim to build on its current success, with a focus on modernization and global growth.