Industrial Visit to Navdurga Food Private Limited: A Practical Insight for SMVITM Students

The Department of Business Administration at SMVITM, Bantakal, organized a one-day industrial tour to Navdurga Foods Pvt. Ltd, Nandikur, on 27th May 2024, aimed at providing students with practical insights into the food manufacturing industry. The visit focused on understanding manufacturing processes, observing quality control measures, learning about supply chain management, and interacting with industry professionals.

Navdurga Food Products Private Limited, a privately owned food processing and blending company, operates a 50,000 sq. ft. air-conditioned facility in Padubidri, Karnataka. With advanced plant and machinery, the company produces large volumes daily, catering to the bakery industry through its brands Lite Eatz and Ribbons & Balloons. Lite Eatz offers a variety of bakery items, muffins, and cookies, while Ribbons & Balloons, a Mumbai-based brand, produces cakes, pastries, biscuits, desserts, donuts, breads, and other bakery items. Navdurga Food Products acts as the master franchisee for Ribbons & Balloons in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.

During the visit, students were given a comprehensive tour of the production facility. Key observations included:

• Raw Material Handling: Advanced storage solutions ensure the freshness and quality of ingredients.
• Production Process:
  • Mixing and Kneading: Ingredients are precisely measured and mixed in industrial mixers.
  • Shaping and Cutting: Dough is shaped and cut using automated machines.
  • Baking/Frying: Depending on the product, the dough is baked or fried.
  • Seasoning: Products are seasoned with various flavors post-cooking.
• Quality Control: Emphasizing quality, the company has several checkpoints throughout the production process. Modern testing equipment is used for microbiological and chemical tests, ensuring high standards. Visitors were also treated to free snacks and cakes.
• Packaging and Storage: Products are packaged using automated machines with eco-friendly materials and stored in a climate-controlled warehouse before distribution.

Students had the opportunity to interact with key professionals, including the Business Development Manager, Production Manager, Quality Control Supervisor, and Supply Chain Manager. These interactions provided valuable insights into industry challenges and opportunities. Mr. Nithesh, the Business Development Manager, delivered a detailed presentation on the company’s operations and product profile.

The industrial visit to Navdurga Food Industries offered SMVITM students an enlightening experience, providing practical knowledge of the food manufacturing business and highlighting the importance of inventory management, technology, and supply chain in the industry. This visit is expected to be invaluable for MBA students as they prepare for careers in the manufacturing sector.