Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co. (SAM) has advised global FMCG giant Nestlé S.A. on its minority investment in Drools Pet Food Private Limited, a fast-growing Indian pet care company.
The transaction marks Nestlé’s strategic entry into India’s rapidly expanding pet food market.
Transaction Details
The deal involved multiple counterparties, including:
LCA Indus Pte. Ltd (investment arm of LCatterton, the LVMH-backed private equity firm)
Drools Pet Food’s founders (Fahim Sultan Ali and Sultan Ali)
Legal Team
SAM fielded a cross-practice team led by:
Transaction Leads: Partners Puja Sondhi and Srikant C.V., supported by Senior Associate Prerna Saroha and Associate Rishika Sharma
Due Diligence Team: Partners Puja Sondhi and Kriti Kaushik, working with associates Prerna Saroha, Rishika Sharma, and Lijin Varughese
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About Drools Pet Food
Founded in 2005, Drools has emerged as one of India’s leading homegrown pet food brands, specializing in:
Premium dog and cat food products
Nutritional supplements and treats
Veterinary-recommended formulations
The company has established strong distribution across India and has been growing at approximately 30% CAGR, capitalizing on the country’s booming pet care industry valued at over $500 million. Nestlé’s investment provides Drools with global expertise and resources to accelerate its expansion plans.
Market Context
This transaction highlights:
Growing interest from multinationals in India’s pet care sector
Increased M&A activity in the FMCG space
SAM’s continued dominance in complex cross-border investments
The deal strengthens Nestlé’s portfolio in emerging markets while providing Drools with strategic partnership opportunities in product innovation and international distribution.
