ITC Limited: How a Tobacco Giant Became a Conglomerate
ITC Limited: A Journey Through Time and Diversification
Introduction: Exploring ITC Limited's Legacy - Established in 1910, ITC Limited is a premier Indian conglomerate with a diversified presence in sectors like tobacco, food processing, retail, and financial services. This exploration traces ITC's development from inception to modern-day prominence.
The Genesis of ITC - Founded in 1910 as a British-owned enterprise in Kolkata, ITC has its headquarters at Virginia House, Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Led by Chairman & MD Sanjiv Puri, it boasts a market cap over ₹4,38,601Cr and employs over 36,500 individuals, with a global footprint across 90 countries and 60 Indian locations.
- Name Evolution: Originally Imperial Tobacco Company of India Limited in 1910, became India Tobacco Company Limited in 1970, abbreviated as I.T.C Ltd in 1974, and currently known as ITC Limited.
ITC's Historical Milestones:
- 1910: Founded as Imperial Tobacco Co. of India Ltd.
- 1953: Acquired Tobacco Manufacturers (India) Ltd.
- 1972: Entered hospitality sector.
- 1979: Hotel brand changed to 'Welcomgroup'.
- 1988: Launched 'ADARSH' oilseeds and 'SUNDROP' cooking oil.
- 1996: Released Classic Ultra Milds and Wills Natural Lights.
- 2010: Forayed into fairness cream and cigars market.
- 2022: Achieved gross sales of ₹90,104 crores and ₹15,058 crores net profit.
ITC Subsidiaries and Business Ventures: Key subsidiaries include ITC Infotech (technology), Srinivasa Resorts Limited (hospitality), Surya Nepal Private Limited (tobacco), and others such as Fortune Park Hotels Limited and Russell Credit Limited. ITC's ventures span FMCG, hotels, paperboards, agri-business, and IT services.
Overview of ITC Subsidiaries:
- ITC Infotech: Specializes in IT services and digital solutions.
- Srinivasa Resorts Limited: Offers luxury hospitality experiences.
- Surya Nepal Private Limited: Engages in cigarette manufacturing and export.
- Fortune Park Hotels Limited: Provides economy luxury hotels.
- Landbase India Limited: Features Classic Goals and Country Club near Delhi.
Conclusion: ITC Limited - Fostering Growth and Innovation - ITC's transformation into a global leader across diverse industries exemplifies its commitment to growth and innovation. From tobacco origins to leadership in FMCG, hospitality, and more, ITC showcases India's entrepreneurial spirit.