Insolvency Move

Cotton manufacturer Axita Cotton Ltd has submitted an expression of interest (EoI) to acquire Varidhi Cotspin Pvt Ltd, a Gujarat-based cotton yarn manufacturer currently undergoing the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP). The EoI was filed on August 21, with the company stating its intent to acquire Varidhi through the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) process.

"Axita Cotton is keen to acquire Varidhi Cotspin Private Limited through the IBC process, which is expected to complement the Company’s existing operations and support its long-term business expansion strategy," the company said in its filing.

The Target: Varidhi Cotspin

Varidhi Cotspin operates a spinning facility in Dholka, Ahmedabad, housing 29,184 spindles with an annual capacity of roughly 4,442 metric tonnes. The company produces ring-spun 100% cotton, compact, combed, and carded yarn catering to hosiery and weaving industries. Its manufacturing unit was established in 2017.

The CIRP against Varidhi was initiated by the Ahmedabad bench of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) on June 22, following a plea filed by SBI over a default of Rs 43.39 crore.

Axita’s Strategic Interest

Axita Cotton positions itself as a quality-focused manufacturer and exporter, with its planned acquisition aimed at strengthening its presence across the cotton value chain. The company highlighted its established industry presence as a foundation to explore complementary segments.

Market Reaction

Ahead of the announcement, Axita Cotton shares rose over 5% to close at ₹7.68 on Friday, touching an intraday high of ₹7.90 and low of ₹7.30. The stock has been volatile, reflecting weak market sentiment, according to market reports. Over the past week, shares gained 5.35%, though they remain down 32% year-to-date and 42% over three years, while showing multi-bagger returns of 269% in the last five years.

Understanding the IBC Process

Under the IBC framework, once a company is admitted to CIRP, a Resolution Professional (RP) invites EoIs via public announcements and issues Form G as an official invitation. An EoI is a preliminary expression of interest, not a binding bid. The RP then assesses EoIs against eligibility criteria under Section 29A, which bars certain persons. Shortlisted Prospective Resolution Applicants gain access to the company's Information Memorandum and related data for further due diligence.