In a significant move that underscores Pune’s growing importance as a global business hub, Magnum Ice Cream Company, Unilever’s newly demerged ice cream arm, has announced plans to set up its first Global Capability Centre (GCC) in the city. With an investment of ₹900 crore, this strategic development is expected to generate over 500 jobs and offer high-value career opportunities in sectors such as IT, finance, HR, and supply chain
A Global Move for a Global Brand
Headquartered in the Netherlands, Magnum Ice Cream Co. is known for its premium offerings and iconic brand presence across markets. The company was officially spun off from Unilever in 2023 as part of a larger restructuring, creating a focused entity with strong global ambitions.
With this new Pune-based GCC, Magnum aims to support its international operations, tapping into India’s robust talent pool. The centre will serve as a strategic backbone, handling key global functions like:
- Information Technology Services
- Finance & Accounting
- Human Resources Management
- Supply Chain Optimization
- Data & Analytics
Why Pune?
Pune continues to emerge as a preferred destination for global companies looking to set up innovation and support centres. With a rich ecosystem of skilled professionals, premier educational institutions, and a rising number of GCCs and flexible workspaces, Pune has fast become a hotspot for international investments.
Key reasons behind Magnum’s decision:
Key reasons behind Magnum’s decision:
- Talent Access: Proximity to top tech and business schools
- Established GCC Ecosystem: Pune already hosts global centres for IT, pharma, and auto giants
- Cost Advantage: Lower operational costs compared to other metros
- Quality Infrastructure: Growth of commercial real estate in key areas like Kharadi, Baner, and Hinjewadi
Government Support & Public Announcement
The announcement came after the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Maharashtra Government and Magnum Ice Cream Co., represented by its CFO, Abhijit Bhattacharya. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde were present during the signing and expressed optimism over the project’s economic impact on the state.
CM Fadnavis shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), calling it a “step towards job creation and economic growth,” highlighting that the new GCC would offer high-paying, skilled employment.
CM Fadnavis shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), calling it a “step towards job creation and economic growth,” highlighting that the new GCC would offer high-paying, skilled employment.
The Bigger Picture: Unilever’s Ice Cream Journey
Unilever’s ice cream division has always been one of its crown jewels, boasting brands like Magnum, Wall’s, and Ben & Jerry’s. The ice cream business generated €7.9 billion in revenue in 2023 alone, with five of the world’s top ten ice cream brands under its belt.
After the demerger, the spun-off company was officially named The Magnum Ice Cream Company, reinforcing its global brand identity. In India, Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) also announced plans to demerge its ice cream division into a separately listed entity—Kwality Wall’s (India) Ltd.
After the demerger, the spun-off company was officially named The Magnum Ice Cream Company, reinforcing its global brand identity. In India, Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) also announced plans to demerge its ice cream division into a separately listed entity—Kwality Wall’s (India) Ltd.
What This Means for India
Magnum’s foray into Pune is not just a win for Maharashtra, but also a strong signal of India’s rising relevance in global operational strategy. It reflects growing investor confidence in the country’s tech and services ecosystem and Pune’s unique value proposition as a tier-1 global business hub.
With more such announcements likely in the pipeline, India’s commercial real estate and employment landscape could be on the cusp of a transformational decade.
With more such announcements likely in the pipeline, India’s commercial real estate and employment landscape could be on the cusp of a transformational decade.
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