The Indian snack industry is a booming market, with an estimated worth of over Rs 1 billion in 2022, and it’s expected to grow further as consumers seek out healthier and more diverse options. Among the traditional snacks that have gained renewed popularity is the humble banana chip. While banana chips have long been a favorite in Kerala, their appeal has now transcended regional boundaries, thanks to entrepreneurs like Manas Madhu.
With his venture, Beyond Snacks, Manas has not only brought the authentic taste of Kerala’s banana chips to a global audience but has also infused them with a variety of exciting flavors. What started as a small venture in 2018 has grown into a multi-crore business, with a monthly revenue of Rs 1 crore, making Beyond Snacks a household name in cities across India and beyond.
From Corporate Cubicles to Crunchy Success: Manas’s Leap of Faith
Manas Madhu’s journey from a corporate job to becoming an entrepreneur is a story of passion, determination, and a love for traditional flavors. Hailing from Alappuzha, Kerala, Manas grew up with banana chips being a staple snack in his household.
He recalls, “Whenever he traveled for work or studies, his parents would pack banana chips in his luggage.” However, finding authentic, high-quality banana chips outside Kerala proved challenging, with only a few brands offering this snack in a premium format.
This realization planted the seed of an idea in Manas’s mind. After reading an article on value addition, Manas had his ‘eureka!’ moment and decided to quit his corporate job to start Beyond Snacks. His vision was clear: to offer premium-quality banana chips with a twist, making them accessible to snack lovers across India and the world.
Crafting a Unique Snack Experience: The USP of Beyond Snacks
Beyond Snacks stands out in the crowded snack market for its commitment to quality and innovation. The company sources nendran bananas, a variety native to Kerala, from farmers across South India, ensuring that only the best produce is used. These bananas are then cleaned, cut, and cooked in pure oil, resulting in chips that are cholesterol and trans-fat-free. But what truly sets Beyond Snacks apart is the variety of flavors they offer.
From desi masala and peri-peri to sour cream onion and parsley, the brand has reinvented banana chips, catering to both traditionalists and those looking for something new. “We wanted to change the narrative and make authentic chips available all over the country in premium quality,” says Manas. This dedication to quality and innovation has not only won over customers but also positioned Beyond Snacks as a leader in the snack industry.
Overcoming Challenges: Navigating the Roadblocks to Success
Like any entrepreneurial journey, the path to success for Beyond Snacks was not without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles Manas faced was gaining consumer trust. “People were skeptical about trying banana chips with unconventional flavors,” he admits. Additionally, establishing a distribution network across India, especially in non-Kerala regions, required significant effort and investment. However, Manas’s appearance on Shark Tank India in 2022 proved to be a game-changer.
His pitch impressed the judges, and he secured a deal with two sharks, Aman Gupta and Ashneer Grover, who invested Rs 50 lakh for a 2.5% equity stake in the company. This exposure not only boosted sales but also helped Beyond Snacks gain visibility on platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and retail outlets across major cities. Today, the company’s products are available in over 3,500 outlets in Mumbai and Pune, with a growing presence in international markets.
A Global Mission: Taking Kerala’s Banana Chips to the World
Beyond Snacks is on a mission to give Kerala’s traditional banana chips a global makeover. Manas and his team are constantly working on new flavors and innovative packaging to cater to a diverse audience. The brand has expanded its reach beyond India, with products now available in the US, UAE, Qatar, Nepal, and Mauritius.
Beyond Snacks has recently launched smaller packets priced at Rs 22 to make their products more accessible to a broader customer base. The company’s goal is to convert Beyond Snacks into a household brand, one that is synonymous with premium, authentic, and innovative banana chips. With plans to introduce new flavors and expand their market presence, Beyond Snacks is well on its way to achieving this vision.
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Looking Forward: The Future of Beyond Snacks
As Beyond Snacks continues to grow, Manas remains focused on his mission to bring Kerala’s banana chips to a global audience. The company’s success story is a testament to the power of innovation, quality, and a deep connection to one’s roots.
With a monthly revenue of Rs 1 crore and a strong presence in both domestic and international markets, Beyond Snacks is poised for even greater success in the years to come. For Manas, the journey has been about more than just building a business; it’s been about preserving and celebrating the flavors of his homeland while sharing them with the world. As Beyond Snacks continues to grow, the company is set to leave a lasting impact on the snack industry, both in India and globally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes Beyond Snacks different from other banana chips brands?
Beyond Snacks offers premium-quality banana chips made from Kerala’s nendran bananas, available in a variety of unique flavors like peri-peri and sour cream onion.
How did Manas Madhu start Beyond Snacks?
Manas, an MBA graduate, quit his corporate job in 2018 to pursue his passion for food. He founded Beyond Snacks to offer high-quality, innovative banana chips to a wider audience.
Where can I buy Beyond Snacks products?
Beyond Snacks products are available on e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart, as well as in over 3,500 retail outlets across cities like Mumbai and Pune.
How did Beyond Snacks gain popularity?
Beyond Snacks gained significant visibility after Manas pitched the company on Shark Tank India, securing a deal with two sharks. This helped boost sales and expand the brand’s reach.
What are the future plans for Beyond Snacks?
Plans to introduce new flavors and expand its market presence, both in India and internationally, with the goal of becoming a household name in the snack industry.
Why are Beyond Snacks banana chips healthier than regular chips?
Beyond Snacks banana chips are made from fresh nendran bananas, cooked in pure oil, and are free from cholesterol and trans-fat, making them a healthier snack option.
