Trufrost & Butler, a Gurugram-based leader in commercial refrigeration and foodservice equipment, has raised $7 million (Rs 58 crore) from Carpediem Capital to fuel its expansion in India’s booming HoReCa sector. The funding will enhance service infrastructure, boost domestic manufacturing under the “Make in India” initiative, and support international growth in markets like Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Founded in 2018, the company serves QSRs, cafés, and food retail with cost-efficient, innovative solutions, targeting both urban and tier II/III cities. The capital will also drive the development of IoT-enabled smart equipment, strengthening its position in India’s $112 billion foodservice market by 2030.
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A Rising Star in India’s HoReCa Sector
Founded in 2018 by Neeraj Seth and Satish Dudeja, Trufrost & Butler has quickly become a trusted name in India’s HoReCa industry. The company specializes in high-quality, cost-efficient refrigeration, food preparation, and beverage equipment tailored for quick-service restaurants (QSRs), cafés, bars, and food retail outlets. Its focus on delivering reliable performance and faster return on investment (ROI) has resonated with businesses, particularly in tier II and III cities, where modern foodservice infrastructure is in high demand.
The company’s product portfolio includes energy-efficient refrigeration units, beverage dispensers, and food prep machines designed to meet the diverse needs of India’s foodservice industry. By addressing the unique challenges of smaller markets, Trufrost & Butler has carved a niche in a fragmented sector, competing with both multinational giants and local suppliers.
Strategic Funding to Fuel Growth
The $7 million funding from Carpediem Capital, a firm known for backing consumer-focused SMEs like Sukkhi Online and Flipspaces, will enable Trufrost & Butler to accelerate its growth trajectory. The capital will be deployed across three key areas: enhancing service infrastructure, expanding domestic manufacturing, and pursuing international expansion.
Strengthening Service Infrastructure
A significant portion of the funds will be used to bolster Trufrost & Butler’s after-sales service network, a critical factor in the HoReCa industry where downtime can impact business operations. The company plans to establish new service centers across India, ensuring faster response times and enhanced customer satisfaction, particularly in emerging markets outside metro cities.
Boosting Domestic Manufacturing
Aligned with India’s “Make in India” initiative, Trufrost & Butler aims to scale its domestic manufacturing capabilities. This move will reduce reliance on imports, improve cost efficiencies, and enable the company to offer competitively priced products tailored to the Indian market. The focus on local production also positions the company to meet growing demand with greater agility.
Exploring International Markets
With a strong foothold in India, Trufrost & Butler is eyeing international expansion into Southeast Asia and the Middle East, where demand for high-quality foodservice equipment is rising. The funding will support the development of export-ready products and strategic partnerships to facilitate global market entry, leveraging India’s expertise as a launchpad for international growth.
Innovating for the Future
Trufrost & Butler is set to differentiate itself through technological innovation. The company plans to introduce IoT-enabled smart equipment, allowing HoReCa businesses to monitor performance and optimize energy usage in real time. This is particularly significant in an industry where operational efficiency directly impacts profitability. By integrating smart technology, Trufrost & Butler aims to stay ahead of competitors and meet the evolving needs of modern foodservice businesses.
“This investment is a catalyst for our vision,” said Neeraj Seth, Co-Founder of Trufrost & Butler. “It allows us to scale operations, enhance customer experiences, and explore global markets, positioning us as a leader in the HoReCa equipment space.”
Tapping into India’s Booming HoReCa Market
India’s HoReCa sector is on a steep growth trajectory, driven by urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and the proliferation of QSRs, cloud kitchens, and premium cafés. Industry estimates project the foodservice market to reach $112 billion by 2030, with tier II and III cities emerging as key growth hubs. Trufrost & Butler is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, offering solutions that cater to both urban and smaller markets where cost sensitivity and reliability are critical.
The company’s customer-centric approach, which emphasizes end-to-end solutions from product selection to installation and maintenance, has made it a preferred partner for leading QSR chains and independent operators. Its ability to address the unique needs of tier II and III markets, where access to reliable after-sales support is often limited, sets it apart in a competitive landscape.
Carpediem Capital’s Strategic Partnership
Carpediem Capital’s investment underscores its confidence in Trufrost & Butler’s potential to lead India’s HoReCa equipment market. “Trufrost & Butler’s innovative approach and customer-centric model make it a standout in India’s foodservice sector,” said Hithendra Ramachandran, Managing Director of Carpediem Capital. “We are excited to support its growth journey and help it redefine the industry.”
The private equity firm’s expertise in scaling consumer-driven businesses will provide Trufrost & Butler with strategic guidance as it navigates the complexities of rapid expansion. The partnership reflects growing investor interest in India’s consumption-driven economy, particularly in sectors like HoReCa that are poised for significant growth.
A Vision for Global Impact
As Trufrost & Butler embarks on its next phase, the company remains committed to delivering innovative, reliable, and cost-effective solutions. The funding from Carpediem Capital not only strengthens its domestic operations but also paves the way for global ambitions. By combining technological innovation, localized manufacturing, and a robust service network, Trufrost & Butler is set to redefine the HoReCa equipment industry, both in India and beyond.
The company’s growth mirrors the broader transformation of India’s foodservice sector, driven by changing consumer preferences and the rise of experiential dining. With this $7 million infusion, Trufrost & Butler is poised to amplify its impact, setting new benchmarks for quality, efficiency, and customer engagement in the HoReCa industry.
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Last Updated on Monday, September 8, 2025 2:54 pm by Entrepreneur Guild Team
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