SuperK

Overview

SuperK is a tech-enabled franchised retail chain that operates in small towns across India, focusing on providing a modern grocery experience. Founded in December 2019 by BITS Pilani alumni Anil Thontepu and Neeraj Menta, SuperK aims to empower local entrepreneurs by helping them set up and operate mini supermarkets. Based in Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh, the company has rapidly expanded its footprint, with plans for further growth. As of 2025, SuperK has raised capital through various funding rounds, including a recent Series B round accruing approximately $12 million led by 3STATE Ventures.

Recent Developments

  • July 2025: SuperK successfully raised Rs.100 crore (approximately $12 million) in a Series B round led by 3STATE Ventures. This funding aims to support expansion across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka, as well as to enhance marketing, store operations, and technology development.
  • March 2024: The company raised $6 million in a Series A funding round led by Blume Ventures, with additional participation from Silver Needle Ventures, Veltis Capital, Atrium Angels, and others. The funds were earmarked for investing in technology infrastructure, hiring, and scaling the platform to better connect digital brands with SuperK customers.
  • 2024: SuperK announced plans to open over 1,300 retail stores in an asset-light model across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka by the end of 2024. This expansion aims to penetrate smaller towns not typically targeted by large retail networks.
  • 2023: SuperK reported substantial financial growth with revenue reaching Rs 84.55 crore, reflecting a 41% increase from the previous fiscal year. Despite the revenue increase, the company also reported widened losses of Rs 30.67 crore.
  • 2022: The company announced its major expansion plans in Telangana and Karnataka as part of its strategy to boost the presence in southern India.

Company Information

AttributeInformation
Founding DateDecember 2019
HeadquartersKadapa, Andhra Pradesh, India
FoundersAnil Thontepu, Neeraj Menta
Revenue (FY24)Rs 84.55 crore
Profits/LossesLoss of Rs 30.67 crore (FY24)
Key InvestorsBlume Ventures, 3STATE Ventures, Catalyst Trusteeship Limited
IndustryRetail, Tech-Enabled Grocery
Number of EmployeesApproximately 120 employees

Early History

SuperK was conceived to address the disparity between organized and unorganized retail markets in India's smaller towns. The company's founders, Anil Thontepu and Neeraj Menta, were inspired by their previous entrepreneurial experiences and their academic backgrounds at BITS Pilani to create a solution that bridged this gap. Their initial strategy involved rebranding existing small format stores and enhancing them with technology, standardization, and better procurement systems. The company's implementation began in Andhra Pradesh, where partnering with local entrepreneurs and offering comprehensive support was key to its early success. SuperK quickly demonstrated a scalable model with significant store penetration in various small towns, incorporating community-centric customization and enhanced customer experiences.

Company Profile and Achievements

SuperK's business model revolves around empowering smaller-town retail entrepreneurs through a franchising approach. This enables each partner to benefit from centralized procurement, technology intelligence, and marketing oversight provided by SuperK.

  • Milestones:
    1. Rapid expansion to over 80 small towns within Andhra Pradesh.
    2. Establishing over 130 franchise stores by 2024.
    3. Successful funding rounds consecutively showed SuperK's appeal to major investors such as Blume Ventures and 3STATE Ventures.
  • Technological Integration: SuperK developed in-house point-of-sale systems, consumer apps, and data collection processes to optimize retail management.
  • Market Footprint: By the end of the fiscal year 2024, SuperK had established a significant presence with its franchise model, serving nearly 500,000 families.

Current Operations and Market Position

SuperK continues to solidify its position within India's retail landscape by further developing its asset-light model. Its strategy focuses on maximizing customer reach in Tier III and smaller towns by modernizing local retail spaces. The company leverages technology for efficient inventory management, which reduces operational risks and costs. SuperK's platform aligns with the growing digital demand, allowing it to maintain a competitive edge over traditional kirana and even modern retail setups. Despite challenges such as operational losses, SuperK's outlook remains positive due to its brand recognition and continued investment in technological advancements.

Conclusion

SuperK has emerged as a prominent player in India’s retail sector by redefining grocery shopping experiences for underserved small-town markets. With backing from top investors and a strategic focus on technology and franchising, the company is well positioned to expand further and capture greater market share. As SuperK aims to diversify and scale, its impact on regional markets continues to grow, signifying potential for long-term success and industry leadership.

References

  1. FreshPlaza Article
  2. The Hindu Business Line Article
  3. TechNode Global
  4. Inc42 Article
  5. YourStory on SuperK
  6. The Kredible Financials
  7. Entrepreneur Article
  8. Startup Magazine
  9. Indian Startup Times
  10. The Kredible Company Overview