Goodricke Group Ltd is ready to make entry in the FMCG section with the introduction of beverages and instantaneous pre-mixed powders in 2011.

Buoyed by the victory of its bulk iced tea dealings, tea plantation firm is in search of a distribution associate for pre-mixed goods.

Iced-tea sachets are also likely to be rolled out in 2011.

On the sidelines of Goodricke's 35th AGM, Mr. Arun N. Singh, MD and CEO, Goodricke Group said, "We are ready and in talks with three companies who can assist in distribution. The moment we take the final call, we will move in."

"Meanwhile, a Japanese company also wants to associate with us for bottling and pre-mixes. For the sachets, we have our own distribution network," Mr. Singh added.

Goodricke possesses two tea gardens at Orangajuli and Nonaipara in the state of Assam.

The company plans to expand its collection in the state.

"For acquisitions there, we will opt for an affordable, clean transaction as and when it comes through," he said.

The company eyes a 4-5% growth in production in 2011 in proportion to that of the industry.

During the last year, the overall manufactured crop remained at 20.58 million kgs as compared to 19.96 million kgs in the year 2009.

Export objectives for 2011 stood at about 3 million kgs, almost matching the levels of 2010.