NEW DELHI: The food processing industry in India is on track to double its market size to $535 billion by 2025-26, fueling a surge in hiring across the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. According to a report by TeamLease EdTech, hiring intent for freshers in FMCG jumped to 32% in the second half of 2024, up from 27% in the first half.
Expanding Opportunities in Food Processing
The food processing industry, which stood at $263 billion in 2019-20, is projected to grow at an annual rate of 12.6%. This expansion is driving deeper penetration into rural and semi-urban markets and creating employment opportunities in areas such as supply chain management, market research, and product development.
Key product segments fueling this growth include:
- Dairy Products
- Ready-to-Eat (RTE) Foods
- Frozen Meats
- Snacks and Beverages
“The demand for fresh talent in FMCG is a direct outcome of the rapid growth in India’s food processing sector, particularly as companies expand their presence in rural and semi-urban regions,” said Shantanu Rooj, founder and CEO of TeamLease EdTech.
High-Demand Roles and Regional Insights
Specific job roles are seeing strong hiring intent, with regional variations reflecting local industry dynamics:
- Food Engineers: 41% hiring intent in Bengaluru.
- Logistics Coordinators: 39% in Delhi.
- Supply and Distribution Chain Experts: 37% in Hyderabad.
- Brand Management Trainees: 34% in Bengaluru.
The report reveals that FMCG companies are prioritizing candidates skilled in market insights, retail distribution, and regional consumer behavior to support their growth strategies in untapped markets.
Survey Insights
The findings are based on a survey conducted across 526 companies from 18 industries, covering metros and tier-1 and tier-2 cities. This hiring trend underscores the industry’s pivotal role in India’s economic growth and its potential to generate significant employment opportunities.
For the latest Business and Finance News, subscribe to Globalfinserve, Click here.