Inka Crops: Alicorp’s Subsidiary to Expand Potato Washing Plant in San Juan de Lurigancho

Alicorp, the Peruvian multinational food and consumer goods company, is moving forward with a S/ 4.22 million (approximately $1.16 million USD) investment to expand and technologically upgrade the washing component of its Inka Crops plant in San Juan de Lurigancho, Lima. The project, submitted to Peru’s Ministry of Production (Produce) for review, aims to increase the auxiliary washing area for tubers by 233.48%.

The expansion isn’t a direct result of Alicorp’s recent 60% acquisition of Inka Crops, finalized in early March 2026, but rather a pre-existing optimization plan initiated by Inka Crops prior to the deal’s closure, according to a statement provided to Gestión. This distinction highlights Alicorp’s strategy of streamlining operations at newly acquired entities even as simultaneously pursuing independent growth initiatives.

Project Details and Timeline

The investment will focus on expanding the auxiliary area dedicated to washing potatoes and other tubers used in Inka Crops’ snack production. The current plant, located at Av. El Santuario N° 1127, urbanización Zárate, in San Juan de Lurigancho, lacked sufficient space to accommodate new equipment needed to support increased production. The project’s technical report, known as an Informe Técnico Sustentatorio (ITS), outlines the need for the expansion to maintain efficient production processes.

Alicorp anticipates a four-week execution timeline for the project. The estimated lifespan of the investment is 30 years, though the company notes this timeframe is subject to change and will be communicated to the relevant authorities as needed. The initial approval for the plant’s area was granted via Resolution Directoral N.° 426-2024-PRODUCE/DGAAMI, related to a previous round of modifications and technological improvements.

Inka Crops’ History and Product Range

Inka Crops, established in 1995, has built a reputation as a manufacturer of healthy snacks made from corn, bananas, potatoes, and seeds. The company’s website details its commitment to quality and innovation, offering a range of products including plantain chips, potato chips, veggie chips, and giant corn snacks. Inka Crops as well provides private label snack manufacturing services, catering to brands seeking to strengthen their own market presence.

Prior to the Alicorp acquisition, Inka Crops had already begun exploring options to free up space within the San Juan de Lurigancho facility. In December 2025, the company proposed relocating its raw material laboratory, administrative offices, pest control area, restrooms, and changing rooms to create approximately 110 square meters of additional space for the washing area expansion. This earlier proposal demonstrates a proactive approach to optimizing the plant’s layout and capacity.

Alicorp’s Expansion Strategy and Recent Acquisitions

The investment in Inka Crops’ plant is part of a broader trend of strategic acquisitions and expansions by Alicorp. In November 2025, the company announced the acquisition of both Inka Crops and Procesadora Tropical, signaling a commitment to strengthening its position in the Peruvian snack market. Gestión reported that Alicorp is also exploring potential acquisitions in Colombia and Ecuador, indicating a regional expansion strategy.

Alicorp’s portfolio includes well-known brands like ‘Patito’ and ‘Sapolio’, and the company is actively pursuing improvements across its various production facilities. Recent plans include changes to its Lurin plant, further demonstrating a commitment to operational efficiency and growth. The company’s financial performance and strategic direction are closely watched by investors, particularly regarding its potential impact on its valuation on the Lima Stock Exchange (BVL).

Industry Context and Competitive Landscape

The Peruvian snack food market is competitive, with both domestic and international players vying for market share. Inka Crops’ focus on healthier snack options, utilizing ingredients like corn, bananas, and potatoes, positions it within a growing segment of the market. According to EMIS, Inka Crops has been operating since 1995, demonstrating a long-standing presence in the industry. Competitors include Novus Peru S.R.L., Freeko Peru S.A., Activ International S.A.C., and Natural Peru S.A.C.

Public Feedback and Regulatory Process

As part of the regulatory process, Inka Crops is soliciting feedback from the public on the proposed expansion project. Comments and suggestions can be submitted to Produce until March 9, 2026, in accordance with the regulations governing citizen participation in industrial projects. This public consultation period allows for transparency and ensures that community concerns are addressed before the project proceeds.

Looking Ahead: Project Implementation and Market Impact

The next steps involve finalizing the project design based on any feedback received from the public and securing all necessary permits from Produce. Once approved, Alicorp will begin the four-week construction phase, aiming to enhance the efficiency and capacity of the Inka Crops plant. The expansion is expected to support increased production volumes and potentially enable the introduction of new snack products, strengthening Inka Crops’ position in the competitive Peruvian snack market. The success of this project will likely inform Alicorp’s future investment decisions and expansion strategies within the region.