**USK Capital Acquires Majority Stake in Go Raw, Expanding Global Reach**
**Meta Description:** USK Capital, led by billionaire Uday Kotak, has acquired a majority stake in Go Raw, marking its first investment outside India in the consumer sector.
**URL Slug:** usk-capital-go-raw-acquisition
**USK Capital Acquires Majority Stake in Go Raw, Expanding Global Reach**
USK Capital, the family office of billionaire banker Uday Kotak, has made a significant move by acquiring a majority stake in Freeland Foods LLC, the parent company of the US-based seed-snack brand Go Raw. The sellers in this transaction include Juggernaut Capital Partners, a middle-market private equity firm, along with other early-stage investors. While the financial details of the deal remain undisclosed, its implications are noteworthy.
This acquisition marks several milestones for USK Capital. It is the family office’s first investment outside of India, its initial foray into the consumer sector, and a strategic step towards establishing a diversified global investment portfolio. Venkat Subramanian, chief investment officer at USK Capital, emphasized the growing trend of healthy eating among consumers, stating, “Go Raw has demonstrated robust growth over the years and has steadily expanded its retail footprint across the US.”
Go Raw, based in the Chicago area, positions itself as a “better-for-you” snacking brand, focusing on seed-based products. Its product lineup includes sprouted seeds, granola, salad toppers, and cluster snacks, catering to the increasing demand for nutritious snacking options. The popularity of seeds such as pumpkin, chia, and flax is on the rise, particularly among health-conscious consumers globally.
The acquisition aligns with USK Capital’s strategy to invest in global consumer businesses that exhibit strong brand equity and scalability. The family office manages the wealth of Uday Kotak, founder and former CEO of Kotak Mahindra Bank, which is recognized as India’s third-largest private sector lender by market value. The Kotak family currently holds approximately 26% of the bank.
By acquiring Go Raw, USK Capital signals its intent to explore opportunities beyond domestic markets, aiming to build a long-term, globally diversified investment platform centered on scalable, consumer-focused businesses.
**FAQ**
**What is the significance of USK Capital’s acquisition of Go Raw?**
The acquisition is significant as it marks USK Capital’s first investment outside India and its entry into the consumer sector, reflecting a strategic move towards a diversified global portfolio.
