Germany-based agribusiness EW Group plans to invest INR 200 crore in India’s poultry sector over the next three years through its newly formed subsidiary, Lohmann Layers India. The company, a global leader in animal genetics, established the Indian arm via its subsidiary International Layer Distribution (ILD) by acquiring JK Breeders Pvt Ltd for an undisclosed amount.
“India is one of the world’s fastest-growing poultry markets. Establishing Lohmann Layers India reinforces our long-term commitment to Indian farmers,” said Antonio Paraguassu, managing director for Asia and Australia at ILD.
EW Group has operated in India for over 15 years through a franchise model with JK Breeders. With the new structure, it will work directly in the market, according to Surendra K Jangir, managing director of Lohmann Layers India. The company plans to invest INR 200 crore over three years to expand its breeding and distribution operations.
Lohmann Layers India will oversee the commercial distribution of day-old chicks nationwide and aims to establish breeding capacity for 400,000 parent layer birds to supply 30 million day-old chicks annually. The company also intends to set up incubation centres across India, focusing on breeding technology and modern infrastructure.
Currently holding 6–7% market share, Lohmann Layers is targeting a 20% share of India’s layered chick replacement market. The company competes with domestic poultry players such as Venky’s, Skylark, and Hyline in the day-old chick segment.
This investment underscores EW Group’s commitment to strengthening India’s poultry industry while introducing advanced breeding technologies and expanding the supply of quality chicks for commercial poultry production.
