Tamil Nadu-based Uzhavarbhumi, established by Vetrivel Palani and Paneerselvam in 2018, is an end-to-end milk distribution platform for consumers and distributors. The startup stands for unadulterated milk. In Tamil, Uzhavarbumi means ‘the land of farmers.’ In the initial days, Vetrivel roamed around the villages looking for distributors. Initially, farmers denied his request. However, eventually, Vetrivel’s efforts brought results. Over time, Uzhavarbumi added more farmers, expanding its business.
The company procures milk from more than 2,400 cattle owners and brings it to its factory in Madurantakam, Tamil Nadu. The factory, which is spread over 55,000 sqft has two instant chillers and a processing plant spread across 15,000 sqft. The startup says mouth publicity played a crucial role in its development.
As of now, more than 30 women self-help groups work with the startup. Cattle owners would bring the milk to their respective centres. The milk is then tested to ensure purity. They check for fat, SNF ( Solid Not Fat), and the quantity of water in milk. Milk that fails to comply with the criteria will be returned to the owners. The startup delivers milk in more than 43 locations. More than 30 are in sub-urban areas. The delivery charge is Rs 100 to Rs 200. Half litre of milk is priced at Rs 35 and one litre at Rs 65. Uzhavarbumi has more than 15,000 customers and carries out about 6,500 daily deliveries in Chennai.
The startup also expanded its product portfolio by introducing ghee, honey, and egg. Last year, the company registered a sales turnover of Rs 8 crore. Uzhavarbumi has its own tech products for delivery, stock management, farmers, and cattle management. It is also developing an interactive voice response system so that farmers can do payments easily. The startup also plans to expand to Bengaluru and Hyderabad in the next year.
