India’s food processing industry led to an increase in FMCG hiring of fresher jobs; rising to 32% in H2FY24 November 24. The food industry, which is expected to double in size by 2025-26, will drive hiring in the FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) sector, as the second half of 2024 witnessed a sharp increase in hiring intent for freshers, rising to 32 percent, according to a report from TeamLease EdTech.

According to the report, the intention to hire freshers in the first half of 2024 was 27 percent.

This increase is driven by deeper market penetration in rural and semi-urban markets on the back of rapid growth in India’s food processing industry, which is expected to double from USD 263 billion in 2019-20 to USD 535 billion in 2025-26, at a CAGR of 12.6 per cent.

The report adds that key product segments such as dairy, RTE (Ready-to-Eat) foods, frozen meats and snacks are creating supply chain job roles and market research.

“The increase in demand for fresh talent in FMCG can clearly be attributed to deeper expansion in rural and semi-urban markets, driven by the rapid growth of India’s food processing industry,” said Shantanu Rooj, Founder and CEO, TeamLease Edtech.

He noted that due to the company’s focus on strengthening supply chains, market research and brand management, demand for talent is expected to be high.

It further adds that FMCG companies are prioritizing freshers with skills in market insight, retail distribution and regional consumer understanding when expanding into untapped areas.

Roles such as food engineers are expected to have a hiring intent of 41 percent in Bengaluru, while logistics coordinators show a hiring intent of 39 percent in Delhi. Additionally, demand for supply and distribution chain positions in Hyderabad is 37 percent and brand management trainees have a hiring intent of 34 percent in Bengaluru.

Each role requires a blend of technical knowledge in supply chain, inventory and logistics management, along with adaptability and strong communication skills to navigate diverse regional markets.

This sectoral hiring trend reflects FMCG’s role as a major employment driver in India, with continued growth expected in demand for new talent across key cities and expanding regional markets.

The survey covers 526 small, medium and large enterprises across 18 industries in India. The coverage is spread over 14 geographical areas [metros, tier-1, and tier-2 centres, reflecting the hiring sentiment.

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