Ayodhya's impending Ram temple consecration attracts FMCG companies and food chains, foreseeing a significant tourism surge
Ahead of the Ram temple consecration on January 22 in Ayodhya, FMCG companies and food service chains are flocking to the city. They expect a significant increase in tourism and the city's floating population, estimating it to surge 8-10 times. This increase is expected to coincide with Ayodhya's global branding and its overall transformation, as per a report by the Economic Times.
In anticipation of a rise in consumer demand after the Ram temple consecration, Bisleri International, India's largest mineral water company, is strategically setting up a new plant in Ayodhya. Angelo George, CEO of Bisleri International told ET that the plant will cater to the increased demand from neighboring markets in Uttar Pradesh.
As per sources cited in the report, places with historical significance naturally draw demand. According to information from the UP Tourism Department, Ayodhya experienced an increase in visitors, with the number rising from 325,000 in 2021 to 23.9 million the following year.
Anticipating a surge in demand for daily essentials, FMCG companies are expanding their distribution in Ayodhya, which is emerging as the foremost tourism center of New India, according to Dhairyashil Patil, the national president of the All India Consumer Products Distributors Federation. Patil estimates that the visiting population of Ayodhya could increase by 8 to 10 times, driving up demand for items such as packaged water, soft drinks, snacks, and other grocery products.
The construction of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya has resulted in the city's revamped railway station, featuring food plazas, a recently built airport, various development projects with investments exceeding Rs 15,700 crore, and double-digit hotel ventures.