By Tanisha Saxena | IMAWS

Frozen foods have gone from frosty to fabulous, riding the wave of convenience and innovation straight to the top of the culinary charts! With freezer aisles bursting with tantalizing options, from gourmet meals to guilt-free treats, it’s a frosty revolution. Thanks to advancements in freezing tech, your favourite dishes now retain their flavour and nutrients, delivering a deliciously convenient solution for hectic schedules. Whether you’re craving comfort classics or exploring new flavours, frozen foods are here to make mealtime magic, one frosty bite at a time!

HyFun, born from three generations of entrepreneurial spirit, began trading potatoes and onions in 1962, evolving into a global B2B player by 2015. Committed to the ‘Make in India’ initiative, they export to over 20 countries, boasting international quality with an Indian touch. Haresh Karamchandani, MD & CEO – HyFun Foods shares his thoughts on the evolving nature of the frozen foods segment, with a CMR representative. 

How do you perceive the current trends and dynamics in the global frozen snacks market, and how is HyFun Foods positioned to navigate these trends?

The current trends in the global frozen snacks market are driven by consumers’ increasing demand for convenience, variety, and quality. As lifestyles become busier, consumers seek quick and easy meal solutions without compromising on taste or nutrition. HyFun Foods, positioned as a leading player in this market, understands these trends and continually innovates to meet consumer needs. 

Having said that, we are focusing on bringing more and more frozen foods as Indian consumers always need varieties. Leveraging its expertise in freezing technology and culinary innovation, HyFun Foods offers a diverse range of frozen snacks that appeal to modern consumers’ preferences.

As a key player in the B2B segment, what challenges and opportunities do you see emerging in the broader food industry, both domestically and internationally?

As a key player in the B2B segment, HyFun Foods faces both challenges and opportunities in the broader food industry. Challenges include evolving consumer preferences, regulatory changes, and competition. However, there are also significant opportunities for growth, especially in emerging markets and segments such as plant-based and gluten-free snacks. By staying agile and responsive to market dynamics, HyFun Foods can capitalize on these opportunities while addressing challenges through strategic partnerships, innovation, and market diversification.

With the increasing emphasis on health and wellness, how does HyFun Foods address consumer demands for healthier frozen snack options, and what role does innovation play in this aspect?

With the growing emphasis on health and wellness, HyFun Foods recognizes the importance of offering healthier frozen snack options to consumers. The company invests in research and development to create products that are lower in sodium, fat, and calories, without compromising on taste or quality. Innovation plays a crucial role in this aspect, as HyFun Foods explores new ingredients, formulations, and production methods to meet consumer demand for nutritious yet delicious frozen snacks.

How has the market for frozen snacks evolved over the years, and what strategies has HyFun employed to stay adaptable to changing consumer preferences?

The market for frozen snacks has evolved significantly over the years, with consumers becoming more discerning and health-conscious. HyFun Foods has adapted to these changes by continually refreshing its product portfolio and introducing new flavours, formats, and packaging options to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Additionally, the company invests in consumer research and market analysis to stay abreast of trends and tailor its offerings accordingly, ensuring relevance and competitiveness in the marketplace.

In the context of international trade and geopolitical changes, how does HyFun Foods manage uncertainties in the market, particularly in terms of export logistics and regulations?

In the face of international trade and geopolitical changes, HyFun Foods manages uncertainties in the market by maintaining robust supply chain management systems and staying informed about export logistics and regulations. The company diversifies its market presence to mitigate risks associated with geopolitical instability and explores opportunities in new markets to offset any potential disruptions. By remaining flexible and responsive to geopolitical shifts, HyFun Foods ensures the continuity of its operations and sustains its global presence.

Can you shed light on the role of sustainability in the food industry and how HyFun Foods integrates eco-friendly practices into its operations?

Sustainability is a core focus for HyFun Foods, and the company integrates eco-friendly practices into its operations at every level. From sourcing ingredients responsibly to optimizing energy consumption and reducing waste, HyFun Foods strives to minimize its environmental footprint. The company invests in sustainable packaging solutions, engages in community initiatives, and collaborates with suppliers who share its commitment to environmental stewardship. By prioritizing sustainability, HyFun Foods not only meets consumer expectations but also contributes to a healthier planet for future generations.

What insights can you share about the impact of digitalization and e-commerce on the distribution and marketing of frozen snack products?

Digitalization and e-commerce have transformed the distribution and marketing of frozen snack products, offering new opportunities for reach and engagement. HyFun Foods embraces digital technologies to optimize its distribution channels, streamline inventory management, and enhance customer experiences. The company leverages social media platforms, online marketplaces, and targeted digital advertising to connect with consumers and promote its products effectively. By harnessing the power of digitalization, HyFun Foods stays competitive in the rapidly evolving landscape of e-commerce and digital marketing.

How does HyFun Foods approach market research and consumer feedback to stay ahead of competitors and meet evolving customer expectations?

HyFun Foods places great importance on market research and consumer feedback to stay ahead of competitors and meet evolving customer expectations. The company conducts regular market surveys, consumer focus groups, and product testing to gather insights into changing preferences and trends. By analyzing data and feedback, HyFun Foods identifies emerging opportunities, fine-tunes its product offerings, and refines its marketing strategies. This customer-centric approach enables the company to maintain its competitive edge and deliver value to consumers worldwide.