During the Kurkumbh plant visit, Dheeraj Talreja, Vice President and Managing Director, Cargill Food South Asia, outlined Gemini’s growth strategy as the brand reaches over 5 million households and expands across 1 lakh retail outlets in Maharashtra
Edible oil consumption patterns in India are evolving as brands respond to changing consumer preferences around quality, health, and accessibility. Cargill marked three decades of its consumer brand Gemini by opening its Kurkumbh manufacturing facility in Maharashtra, offering a closer look at its production processes, safety standards, and future growth plans.
The visit was hosted by Dheeraj Talreja, Vice President and Managing Director, Cargill Food South Asia, who shared insights into the company’s priorities in one of its key markets. Actor Priya Bapat joined the visit along with consumers, influencers, and media participants, bringing a consumer perspective to the interaction.
Maharashtra remains a significant market for Gemini, supported by high consumption of multiple edible oils such as sunflower, soybean, groundnut, and cottonseed. The Kurkumbh facility, operational since 2005, employs over 500 people across refining and packaging operations for the brand’s product range.
Dheeraj Talreja said, “With a strong legacy of 30 plus years behind us, Gemini is known for its unshakable consumer trust and superior product quality. As we look at the next 30 years, Gemini is transforming into a future ready edible oils brand, deeply rooted in India’s traditions, while evolving with modern consumers through premiumization, digital engagement, and presence on next generation distribution channels.”
Gemini’s portfolio includes sunflower oil, soybean oil, groundnut oil, rice bran oil, kachi ghani mustard oil, vanaspati, and blended oils. The brand currently reaches more than 5 million households and is available across over 1 lakh retail outlets in Maharashtra.
As consumer demand shifts toward health led and premium offerings, the company is exploring expansion into cold pressed oils. This aligns with a broader move toward premium products while maintaining its presence in core categories such as sunflower and soybean oil.
The brand is also expanding its presence across e commerce and quick commerce platforms. While physical retail continues to drive a large share of sales, online channels have recorded increased contribution over the past year, reflecting changing purchasing behaviour among urban consumers.
Cargill’s Kurkumbh facility has received recognition at the Confederation of Indian Industry Food Safety Awards 2024 for outstanding performance in food safety in the large manufacturing food businesses category for fats and oils. Gemini was also ranked as the number one sunflower oil brand in India in 2023, based on a study by Consumer Voice.
Beyond business operations, the company continues to invest in community initiatives. During the visit, Cargill inaugurated Project Vidya Vikas at the State Reserve Police School in Daund, introducing infrastructure improvements such as playground flooring, additional seating, and sanitation facilities for over 1500 students.
Previous initiatives include programs focused on child nutrition, village development, and maternal health, reaching thousands of beneficiaries across the region through partnerships with local stakeholders and government programs.
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