The Scoop on Hocco: An Ice Cream Brand with Heritage and Hustle
Remember Havmor Ice Cream? It was a household favorite in India before being acquired by Lotte for ₹1,020 Cr in 2017. Now, the original founders—the Chona Family—are back in the game, and this time they’re taking things to a whole new level.
Their new brand, Hocco, isn’t just another dessert. It’s a premium, emotion-driven comeback that blends nostalgia with next-gen quality.
The ₹82 Crore Comeback: Hocco’s New Funding Round
Earlier in 2024, Hocco raised ₹82 crore (~$10 million) in an ongoing Series B round, led by the Chona Family Office and Sauce VC. For a company just re-entering the market, this is a massive sign of confidence.
So why are investors lining up?
Because the Chonas know this space. They’ve built, scaled, and exited a ₹1,000+ Cr brand before. With Hocco, they’re not starting from scratch—they’re starting from experience.
What Makes Hocco So Different?
In a world where every third brand claims to be “premium,” Hocco actually delivers.
Here’s how:
- Natural ingredients: No artificial flavors or colors.
- Modern flavors: Think Salted Caramel, Espresso Crunch, and Gulab Jamun Swirl.
- Direct-to-consumer focus: Available online and at curated Hocco stores.
- Cool branding: Stylish packaging that feels luxurious yet fun.
🧁 Example: A young professional in Ahmedabad recently shared on Instagram how Hocco’s Paan flavor reminded her of childhood, but with a gourmet twist.
The Bigger Vision: More Than Just Ice Cream
Hocco isn’t stopping at tubs and cones. The brand plans to expand into frozen desserts, artisanal novelties, and even experiential ice cream cafes. The goal is to become India’s answer to Ben & Jerry’s or Häagen-Dazs—but with an Indian soul.
They’re also tapping into Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities where the demand for premium yet local brands is skyrocketing.
Why Founders Should Be Watching Hocco Closely
Whether you’re in food & beverage or running a D2C brand, here’s what Hocco teaches us:
1. Leverage Your Legacy
The Chona family didn’t run away from their past. They embraced it, then built something fresh on top of it.
2. Know Your Market
They didn’t try to go mass immediately. Hocco is smartly targeting urban consumers who are ready to pay a little extra for better quality.
3. Fund with Purpose
Rather than splurge on ads, Hocco is investing in product quality, distribution, and customer experience.
What We Think at VentureLinkUp
At VentureLinkUp, we spotlight startups that combine vision with execution. The Chona family’s approach with Hocco is a masterclass in brand revival, customer connection, and long-term strategy.
Whether you’re a founder, investor, or just someone with a sweet tooth, this is a startup to watch in 2025.
What’s Next for Hocco?
With their funding in place, Hocco is aiming to:
- Expand across India through flagship stores
- Launch seasonal and regional flavors
- Go global with Indian-themed frozen treats
Final Takeaway
Ice cream may melt, but legacies don’t. The Chona family is turning a successful exit into an even bolder comeback—and we’re here for it.
👀 Keep watching VentureLinkUp for more inside stories from India’s hottest startups.
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available information and news sources. While we aim for accuracy, readers should do their own research to verify details and data. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, financial, or investment advice. VentureLinkUp.com has no direct affiliation with Hocco or the Chona Family.
