Kido Group, Vietnam’s top food company, is diversifying into media, entertainment, and commerce with its AIRO ecosystem and a joint venture, A&M, with YeaH1. This shift comes as Kido gradually exits its ice cream business, which has historically been a key profit driver.
Kido’s New Direction
- Overview: Kido officially launched the AIRO ecosystem in late September, focused on media, entertainment, and commerce powered by AI.
- Joint Venture: On October 6, Kido announced A&M with YeaH1, focusing on producing Vietnamese entertainment content, notably the TV program “Xin Chao Thu Bay,” based on the “Hello Saturday” format.
- Vision: Kido’s general director, Tran Le Nguyen, emphasized that this venture is a key step in realizing AIRO’s vision of becoming a comprehensive media and commerce group.
Strategic Focus
- Ecosystem Goals: Kido aims to build a framework based on original content creation, AI-driven production efficiency, and strategic partnerships.
- Revenue Model: The content-talent-commerce model seeks to generate self-sustained revenue, assisting international brands entering the Vietnamese market.
Business Restructuring
- Ice Cream Exit: Kido is transitioning from its traditional focus on food products to media and entertainment, having divested a significant portion of its ice cream operations through the company now known as Nuti KD International Foods JSC.
- Financial Performance: Kido’s core operations generated substantial profits, but they were still insufficient to cover selling and admin costs. In 2025, Kido’s net profit surged, aided by joint ventures and divestments.
Future Outlook
- Revenue Challenges: The exit from the ice cream segment raises questions about future growth avenues. The success of AIRO and A&M will hinge on their ability to create appealing content and monetizable IP.
- Stock Performance: Kido shares are currently trading at VND50,800 ($1.96) on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange.
As Kido pivots from its core food business into the entertainment sector, the company’s ability to adapt and build new revenue streams will be crucial for future success.
