Liquor
Liquor sales volumes to decline after steep, abrupt increase in duty: CIABC to Maharashtra government
The Maharashtra government's excise duty hike on IMFL whisky, increasing MRP by about 85%, is raising concerns among industry players like CIABC. They foresee a significant drop in sales, downtrading, and a shift towards illicit liquor due to price disparities with neighboring states.
Taxes on beer already very high compared to IMFL whisky in Maharashtra: Brewers Association
The Brewers Association of India (BAI) supports Maharashtra's decision to raise excise duty on IMFL whisky, citing already high beer taxes. BAI highlights that beer taxes have significantly increased over the past decade compared to IMFL, hindering the beer industry's growth in the state. They believe this move will correct pricing imbalances and encourage investment in the beer sector.
Allied Blenders buys rights to Mansion House and Savoy Club Brands
Allied Blenders and Distillers Ltd (ABD) has secured global rights for Mansion House and Savoy Club brands from UTO Asia for $1.2 million, excluding specific Asian territories. This acquisition aims to give ABD full control over these brands globally, addressing regional interests in key markets.
Mansion House brand's global ownership goes to Allied Blenders
Allied Blenders and Distillers Ltd (ABD) has acquired global ownership of 'Mansion House' and 'Savoy Club' liquor brands by acquiring UTO Asia Pte. Ltd. The deal, approved on June 10, 2025, for €1.225 million, excludes certain Southeast Asian markets. This acquisition aligns with ABD's strategic expansion goals, strengthening its brand presence internationally.
United Breweries receives Rs 18.60 cr GST order
United Breweries faces a tax demand of Rs 18.60 crore from the Kerala State Goods & Services Tax Department. The demand relates to alleged non-payment of turnover tax on beer sales. It pertains to fiscal years 2022-23 and 2023-24. The company states it has already made provisions for this. United Breweries is considering legal options.
Magic moment for Radico Khaitan as eight brands join the 'Millionaires' Club'
Radico Khaitan, a leading Indian spirits company, has achieved global recognition with eight brands listed in Drinks International's Millionaires' Club 2025. This accomplishment places Radico Khaitan among the top five globally, as the only Indian company to achieve this milestone. The company's success reflects the growing international acceptance and strong sales of Indian spirits.
RCB to be sold? Diageo weighs options for stake sale in IPL 2025 winner
RCB: Diageo Plc is exploring options for its IPL team Royal Challengers Bengaluru, including a potential sale valued at up to $2 billion. Discussions are underway amid regulatory pressure in India on alcohol brand promotions in sport. A sale could reshape IPL franchise valuations as Diageo reconsiders global priorities amid slowing liquor sales.
A home-grown liquor giant is making a bold pivot
Tilaknagar Industries, known for its Mansion House brandy, is reportedly eyeing Pernod Ricard's Imperial Blue whisky brand. This potential $600 million deal could be the liquor industry's largest M&A in over a decade. While Tilaknagar dominates India's brandy market, this move signals a significant push into the whisky sector, despite a recent slowdown in spirits demand.
Brandy boss Tilaknagar eyes Imperial Blue in $600 million whisky chase
Tilaknagar Industries, known for Mansion House brandy, is leading the acquisition race for Pernod Ricard's Imperial Blue whisky, potentially the largest liquor industry M&A since 2013. Valued at up to $600 mn, the deal would significantly expand Tilaknagar's whisky portfolio, though Inbrew Beverages remains a contender. Pernod Ricard aims to focus on its premium brands after the sale.
How UP's liquor lottery system helped Yogi govt double revenue to Rs 50,000 crore in six years
Uttar Pradesh's revamped excise policy and lottery system have doubled the state's liquor revenue, reaching Rs 51,000 crore in 2024-25. The online lottery for liquor shops attracted over 4 lakh applications, with composite shops proving most popular. Increased sales in border districts due to Bihar's prohibition and structural changes are encouraging new brands and retailers.
Must Watch
Amrut Distilleries bags three double golds at San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Amrut Distilleries secures top honors at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2025. The Indian distillery earns three Double Golds and one Gold. Amrut Fusion, Indian Single Malt, and Kurinji Single Malt receive Double Gold awards. Amrut Peated Single Malt wins Gold. Rakshit N Jagdale expresses pleasure at the recognition. The awards reaffirm Amrut's commitment to world-class spirits.
Scotch meets match; local Single Malts win hearts
Indian single malt whisky sales have surpassed Scotch for the first time in 2024, driven by increasing consumer preference for local premium brands. While Scotch sales declined, Indian single malts experienced significant growth, fueled by quality, competitive pricing, and a sense of national pride.
Radico Khaitan withdraws brand name 'Trikal' for new single malt whisky
Radico Khaitan, the company behind Rampur single malt whisky, has decided to withdraw the brand name 'Trikal' for its new single malt whisky range. This decision comes after facing criticism and challenges, including denial of permission in Uttarakhand and social media backlash due to perceived religious iconography on the product label.
India-UK FTA will make Scotch whiskies more competitively priced: Pernod Ricard India
Pernod Ricard India announced it will pass on the benefits of reduced import duties on premium Scotch whiskies to consumers following the India-UK FTA. The agreement, expected to improve access and lower retail prices, will primarily impact imported liquor, with minimal effect on India Made Foreign Liquor. The company awaits official terms to fully assess the FTA's implications.
Alcohol makers seek phased import duty cuts, strong safeguards to prevent EU FTA misuse
The Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC) has urged the government to gradually reduce import duties on liquor products under the proposed India-EU free trade agreement (FTA). They propose cutting customs duties on bottled wines and spirits from 150% to 100% immediately, then to 50% over 10 years, with bulk spirits duties dropping from 150% to 75% immediately and 25% in a decade.
Spirits demand dull but we can uncork growth, says Diageo MD Praveen Someshwar
Diageo India's CEO Praveen Someshwar notes subdued spirits demand due to regulatory hurdles, despite some states adopting progressive policies. While tier-1 city consumption slowed and rural areas lag, the prestige and above segment saw near double-digit growth in FY25. The company aims to build on its strengths, navigating legislative challenges to unlock growth opportunities and double innovation contribution.
