Bombay Burmah: 162 Years Old, ₹13,036 Cr Market Cap – Brewing Tea, Baking Profits, and Throwing in Dental Chairs
1. At a Glance
Bombay Burmah Trading Corporation Ltd (BBTCL) is like that old-money uncle who’s been around since the British Raj and now casually owns plantations, biscuit factories, healthcare units, and a property portfolio. With ₹18,676 crore TTM revenue, ₹2,225 crore TTM profit, and a rock-solid ROCE of 35.5%, it trades at a modest P/E of 11.6 – a rare “value” tag in FMCG-land. But before you grab the kettle, note: the sales growth over the past 5 years is only 9% CAGR, and profits swing like a pendulum thanks to exceptional items.
2. Introduction
Founded in 1863 (yes, when Lincoln was still alive), BBTCL began as a teak trader before moving into tea plantations in 1913. Today, it’s a flagship of the Wadia Group, rubbing shoulders with Britannia, GoAir (RIP), and Bombay Dyeing.
The company is the definition of diversification – tea, coffee, biscuits, dairy, healthcare devices, auto electricals, weighing products, and even horticulture. It’s like they built a corporate version of a general store. The portfolio stability comes from this spread, but it also means growth is more “steady cruise” than “rocket launch”.
3. Business Model (WTF Do They Even Do?)
BBTCL’s model is essentially:
Plantations – Tea, coffee, and other crops.
FMCG – Britannia (through holding), dairy products, biscuits.
