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Zeera: India's Spice Drink Takes on Cola Giants
5 Mar
Summary
- Lahori Zeera achieved Rs 5 billion revenue in FY2025.
- Founded on traditional Indian flavors, Zeera targets local palates.
- Zeera secured Rs 2 billion in Series B funding in May 2025.

In 2025, Archian Foods, known for its Lahori Zeera brand, stood out as one of India's fastest-growing beverage companies, surpassing Rs 5 billion in revenue for FY2025. The company's strategy centers on repeat purchases, cultural resonance, and affordability.
The brand's inception in the mid-2010s was driven by a market gap: a lack of organized players offering traditional Indian spiced beverages. Cousins Saurabh Munjal, Nikhil Doda, and Saurabh Bhutna recognized this void, launching Lahori Zeera in 2017 in Ludhiana.
Zeera competed with global giants by offering a Rs 10, 250 ml pack, significantly cheaper than competitors. Strict unit economics, including a self-owned production plant near demand hubs, ensured profitability. The company later adopted a co-bottling model with stringent quality controls.
By FY2022, Zeera's revenue reached Rs 0.4 billion, with its first profits of Rs 30 million. This success attracted a US$15 million investment from Verlinvest, fueling expansion in capacity, distribution, and product innovation.
Zeera expanded to 16 states, producing five million bottles daily and reaching over 0.5 million retail touchpoints. New flavors like Masala Cola and Shikanji were introduced based on market feedback.
By FY2024, revenues crossed Rs 3 billion. In 2024, a media campaign was launched to build aspirational value and brand awareness.
In May 2025, Zeera raised Rs 2 billion in a Series B round, valuing the company at Rs 28 billion. Funds are earmarked for omni-channel presence, new product launches, and establishing a dedicated R&D center. International expansion into the Gulf, Southeast Asia, and Africa is also planned.
Despite its growth, Zeera faces intense competition from cola giants and emerging FMCG players. Challenges include market awareness, operational complexities with co-bottlers, and the need for an omni-channel strategy. Analysts suggest Zeera must increase brand-building investments to remain competitive.




