Asmita Mukherjee | Hyderabad 
In a robust conversation with Asmita Mukherjee about the future of culinary innovation, Pankaj Chaturvedi, Managing Director of Rich Products & Solutions Pvt. Ltd., opens up about Rich’s dedication to transforming culinary solutions for the hospitality industry. “At Rich’s, our products go beyond high-quality ingredients—they are complete culinary solutions crafted to meet the ever-evolving demands of chefs, retail bakers, and food service operators,” Chaturvedi shares.
Rich’s comprehensive support includes not only supplying top-notch products but also assisting chefs and restaurant operators with menu planning, innovation, and expansion, creating an ecosystem where creativity thrives. “It’s not just about ingredients; it’s about helping our customers succeed by empowering them with the tools they need to drive business growth,” he explains.
Among Rich’s product lineup, Versatie Gold Cooking Cream has emerged as a standout, exemplifying the company’s ethos of versatility and innovation. “Versatie Gold is designed to be multipurpose, making it perfect for a wide range of hot and cold applications, whether sweet or savory,” Chaturvedi notes. From hearty soups and tikkas to smooth dips and creamy gravies, the cream allows chefs to introduce richness across the menu. “One cream, infinite possibilities,” he continues, emphasizing how the product supports chefs in creating diverse, appealing dishes efficiently. What sets Versatie Gold apart is its ambient storage capability, meaning it doesn’t require refrigeration until opened—a logistical advantage that helps manage storage more effectively in busy kitchens. This extended shelf life and ease of storage free up refrigerator space, streamlining operations for high-demand culinary environments.
Rich’s commitment to helping chefs achieve consistency and quality shows through in the product’s unique formulation. “Unlike other creams, Versatie Gold can withstand high heat without splitting or curdling,” Chaturvedi explains, a feature that adds reliability for dishes like Dal Makhani, Paneer Lababdaar, and Soya Chaap. “It’s ideal for both savory and sweet creations,” he adds. When chilled, the cream thickens to a luxurious texture, making it equally suited for dessert items such as fruit creams, where its consistency shines. By enabling chefs to maintain quality and creativity, Versatie Gold has become a go-to solution for the hospitality industry’s diverse culinary needs.
As part of Rich’s ongoing commitment to expanding its product portfolio, Chaturvedi is excited about their latest developments. “Our new Ujjain plant is a milestone, equipped with advanced technology that enhances our production capacity,” he says. Rich’s recent expansion at the Ujjain facility marks a strategic move toward sustainable growth and aims to meet increasing customer demands. This state-of-the-art plant supports the company’s goal of ‘Transforming Tomorrow Together’ and reflects Rich’s long-term vision for continued growth. “This plant will help us expand our product offerings and explore new categories, all while maintaining the high quality our customers have come to expect from Rich’s,” Chaturvedi shares.
The growth trajectory for Rich’s in India and neighboring markets, especially in the HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants, and Cafes) segment, is impressive. “India stands out as a dynamic, progressive market with a high purchasing power, encouraging demand for premium products,” Chaturvedi states, pointing to the urban trend of consumers drawn to innovation and indulgence. Urban centers are particularly ripe for exploring new culinary trends, with an appetite for unique desserts and beverages. “This enthusiasm for new food choices creates an exciting space for Rich’s to introduce products that cater to evolving consumer desires,” he observes.
Looking ahead, Rich’s is gearing up for significant expansion within the HoReCa sector, a decision in line with growing market demand for high-quality, versatile ingredients. “We’re expanding our portfolio to support basket selling—providing a diverse range of products that cater to all kitchen needs,” Chaturvedi explains. Rich’s plans include exploring new product lines, tapping into culinary trends, and collaborating with chefs and food service operators to bring creative solutions to market. “Our goal is to help chefs succeed by offering innovative products that simplify their work and enhance their creativity,” he says.
In envisioning the long-term future, Chaturvedi sees Rich’s role evolving with the dynamic landscape of the hospitality industry. “Our vision is to become the top choice for culinary professionals, focusing on innovation and providing exceptional support,” he asserts. This vision includes not only expanding Rich’s product offerings but also fostering deeper relationships with industry leaders. “We’re dedicated to entering new markets and bringing value to the culinary world,” he says. Rich’s also aims to strengthen ties with top chefs, culinary schools, and industry groups, promoting culinary excellence and supporting industry innovation.
With an unwavering focus on quality, versatility, and customer collaboration, Rich’s continues to set the standard for culinary solutions in the hospitality industry. As Chaturvedi concludes, “We’re committed to helping our customers succeed, one innovation at a time.”
