Nestlé India clocks decade-best quarter as quick commerce, Nescafé push, and ad blitz drive growth

Nestlé India reported its strongest quarterly performance in nearly a decade, powered by double-digit volume growth, an aggressive advertising push, and sustained momentum in quick commerce and beverages.

The maker of Nescafé posted total sales of ₹23,071.5 crore for the financial year ended March 31, 2026, up from ₹20,077.5 crore a year ago. In the March quarter alone, sales surged 23.4% year-on-year to ₹6,445 crore, marking a record domestic performance.

Nestlé India said its e-commerce business continued to scale rapidly, with quick commerce emerging as a key growth driver. The company attributed this to improved product availability, platform-specific packs, targeted digital interventions, and strong festive demand.

The beverages segment remained a standout performer, delivering sustained double-digit growth led by coffee. The company accelerated premiumisation and expanded its portfolio with offerings such as NESCAFÉ Duo Gusto (hot and cold variants), low- and zero-sugar options, and ready-to-drink (RTD) formats including Vietnamese Latte and Iced Cappuccino. Nestlé said RTD coffee is emerging as a key future growth engine.

A more than 50% increase in advertising and promotional spends helped drive volume-led growth across brands. The company said higher investments improved consumer engagement and supported market share gains across categories.

All business channels, including organised retail and out-of-home consumption, recorded double-digit growth. This was driven by stronger in-store activations, improved visibility, innovation, and premiumisation-led consumption occasions.

Nestlé India continued to expand its omnichannel presence across e-commerce, quick commerce, modern trade, pharmacies, and general trade. It also deepened its rural footprint, reaching approximately 216,000 villages, enhancing distribution efficiency and last-mile execution.

Despite stepped-up brand investments, the company maintained a healthy EBITDA margin of 26.3%, supported by cost efficiencies, disciplined execution, and technology-led operations.

“We delivered high double-digit growth and record domestic sales, powered by volume growth and disciplined execution,” said Manish Tiwary, adding that the company will continue to focus on consumer-centric innovation, penetration-led expansion, and brand reinvestment.