Ratan Tata is not just a name; it’s a symbol of wisdom, leadership, and innovation in Indian business. While many admire his humble and philanthropic lifestyle, few realize how he rescued several companies on the brink of collapse and transformed them into profitable giants. His strategic decisions have saved brands not only in India but across the globe. Let’s look at some of the most remarkable companies that Ratan Tata helped to rise from failure to success.
Big Basket: Tata Group’s Supermarket Success
In 2021, Tata Group made a significant move by acquiring Big Basket, India’s leading online grocery platform, for $2 billion. At the time of purchase, Big Basket was popular, but it wasn’t generating enough profit. Ratan Tata’s leadership, combined with the resources of the Tata Group, transformed Big Basket into India’s number one online grocery platform. Today, Big Basket is a dominant player in India’s grocery market, benefiting from the group’s robust infrastructure and customer-first approach.
Jaguar and Land Rover: From Crisis to Profit
Back in 1999, Tata Motors faced criticism when its first car, the Tata Indica, failed to capture the market. The situation escalated when, during a meeting with Ford, Tata Motors was ridiculed for its lack of experience in the automobile industry. However, this setback did not deter Ratan Tata. In 2008, when the global financial crisis hit, Tata Motors purchased iconic British brands Jaguar and Land Rover for $2.3 billion. Under Tata’s leadership, both brands flourished, becoming key profit generators for Tata Motors. Today, Jaguar and Land Rover stand as premium luxury brands with a global presence.
Daewoo Commercial Vehicles: Tata’s Global Reach in Korea
In 2004, Tata Motors acquired South Korea’s Daewoo Commercial Vehicles for $102 million. The company was struggling at the time, but under Ratan Tata’s vision, it was quickly turned around. Not only did Daewoo start making profits, but it also strengthened Tata Motors’ footprint in the international market. The acquisition gave Tata Motors a firm hold in the commercial vehicle market in South Korea, further solidifying its global ambitions.
Corus Steel: Tata’s Global Steel Dominance
Europe’s second-largest steel manufacturer, Corus Group, was struggling financially when Ratan Tata decided to step in. In 2007, Tata Steel acquired Corus for $11.3 billion, marking one of the largest acquisitions by an Indian company at that time. This bold move positioned Tata Steel as a global leader in the steel industry, expanding its reach across Europe and making it a major supplier in the global market.
Tetley Tea: Building a Global Tea Empire
In 2000, Ratan Tata made another significant acquisition by purchasing Tetley Tea for $431.3 million. This move allowed Tata Tea to expand beyond India, establishing itself as a global tea brand. Tetley is now one of the most recognized names in the tea industry, and under Tata’s leadership, it has created a unique place in the international luxury tea market.
Air India: A Full Circle for Tata
One of the most emotional deals for Ratan Tata came in 2021 when Tata Group regained control of Air India. Air India was originally founded by Tata in 1932 but was later nationalized. The airline had been struggling for years, but Tata’s acquisition gave it a fresh start. With a vision to restore Air India’s former glory, Tata Group is now working to revitalize the airline, bringing in new planes and improving services.
Tata 1MG: Stepping into Healthcare
Ratan Tata’s forward-thinking approach extends beyond traditional industries. In 2021, Tata Group acquired 1MG, an online healthcare platform. Initially focused on selling medicines, 1MG has now expanded to offer health consultations, diagnostic tests, and other medical services. With Tata’s backing, 1MG has rapidly grown, becoming a key player in India’s booming online healthcare sector.
A Visionary Leader Who Transforms Challenges into Success
Ratan Tata’s ability to spot potential in struggling companies and turn them around has made him a legend in the business world. His leadership style—rooted in innovation, resilience, and long-term thinking—has not only saved companies from collapse but has also turned them into global success stories. Whether it’s in the automobile industry, steel production, healthcare, or online retail, Tata’s business acumen continues to inspire generations of entrepreneurs.
