Few stories are as compelling as that of B Soundararajan and GB Sundararajan in the vast landscape of Indian entrepreneurship. These two brothers, hailing from modest beginnings, have risen to become some of India’s richest poultry farmers, creating a legacy that is both inspiring and transformative. Their journey from selling chicken to farmers to establishing India’s largest poultry business, Suguna Foods, is a testament to their vision, perseverance, and entrepreneurial spirit.
B Soundararajan’s journey into the world of agriculture began shortly after completing his schooling. Initially, he ventured into vegetable farming, a modest start that laid the groundwork for his future endeavours. His stint working for an agriculture pump company in Hyderabad provided him with valuable insights into the agricultural sector, yet it was his return to join his brother, GB Sundararajan, that marked the turning point in their careers. Together, they started by selling chicken to farmers, a venture that would soon evolve into something much larger.
The Birth of Suguna Foods
In 1984, with a meager investment of Rs 5,000, the brothers took a bold step and founded their first poultry farm in Udumalaipettai, 72 km from Coimbatore. The early years were challenging, but their unwavering dedication and hard work began to bear fruit. Their business acumen and ability to identify market needs propelled their modest venture into a flourishing enterprise. Over the next seven years, they expanded their operations, and 40 farmers joined their initiative, pushing their turnover to Rs 7 crore. Suguna Chicken quickly became a renowned name in Tamil Nadu, signaling the beginning of their ascendancy in the poultry industry.
Despite having no formal business education or background, the Sundararajan brothers demonstrated an extraordinary ability to scale their operations. Their commitment to quality and innovation helped Suguna Foods expand its footprint across India. Today, the company employs 40,000 farmers from over 15,000 villages in 18 states, significantly impacting rural economies and livelihoods.
The growth of Suguna Foods has been nothing short of phenomenal. By FY 2020, the company’s worth was Rs 8,739 crore, and their turnover was Rs 9,155.04 crore in FY 2021. Their profit for the same year stood at Rs 358.89 crore. In a testament to their relentless drive and strategic vision, Suguna Foods achieved a staggering turnover of Rs 12,000 crore last year.
The success of Suguna Foods goes beyond financial metrics. The company has played a crucial role in transforming the poultry industry in India. By employing a large number of farmers and promoting sustainable farming practices, Suguna Foods has contributed significantly to the socio-economic development of rural areas. Their inclusive growth model has empowered many farmers, providing them with stable incomes and better livelihoods.
