Tag Archives: FMCG

Mount Everest Breweries appoints Vinod Babu G as Chief Executive Officer

Mount Everest Breweries Ltd. (MEBL), recently announced the appointment of Vinod Babu G as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Vinod Babu G, with over 19 years of experience in the FMCG and alcoholic beverages sector, will lead MEBL’s overall business operations and growth agenda. Vinod has previously held leadership roles at Anheuser-Busch InBev India and SABMiller India, where he led key brand launches, market expansions, and built high-performing teams across regions.

“We are thrilled to welcome Vinod into the MEBL family,” said Vedant Kedia, Wholetime Director, Mount Everest Breweries Ltd. “Vinod’s proven leadership, strategic vision, and deep understanding of the evolving beer landscape in India and beyond make him the perfect fit to guide MEBL’s next phase of growth.

“I am truly excited to be part of Mount Everest Breweries at such a pivotal moment in its journey,” quoted Vinod. “With its strong legacy and ambitious vision, MEBL is uniquely positioned to lead the next wave of innovation and premiumisation in the Indian beer industry. My goal is to build on this foundation and work closely with our teams to grow MEBL into the largest Indian beer company by 2030. Together, we will create iconic brands, strengthen our operational footprint, and unlock new growth opportunities across India and beyond.”

Vinod has been a two-time recipient of the prestigious BUP Fanatic Award, reflecting his strategic impact and consistent performance. From shaping India’s Trade Marketing function to expanding business across global markets, including establishing a presence in Nepal, Vinod’s career is marked by bold moves and meaningful growth.

ABD acquires Fullarton Brands

Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited (ABD), India’s 3rd largest spirits company, completed the strategic acquisition of all the brands and other Intellectual Property Rights from Fullarton Distilleries Private Limited. This acquisition further augments ABD’s foothold in the super-premium spirits segment and highlights its ongoing commitment with leadership in innovation within the Indian craft spirits industry.  

The acquisition includes the distinguished portfolio featuring brands such as Woodburns Contemporary Indian Whisky, Pumori Small Batch Gin, and Segredo Aldeia Rum. By bringing these award-winning craft spirits into its fold, ABD is strategically positioning itself to meet the evolving demands of India’s super-premium and luxury spirits consumers. 

Woodburns currently operates in six states and union territories, with expansion plans underway for other major markets. Pumori and Segredo Aldeia have established a strong on-trade presence in key markets such as Maharashtra and Goa. The acquisition of these recognised brands, combined with ABD’s operational scale, create a synergistic opportunity for growth and market dominance within the super-premium spirits category. 

Alok Gupta, Managing Director of ABD, said, “At ABD, our growth has always been strategic, and the acquisition of Woodburns Contemporary Indian Whisky, Pumori Small Batch Gin, and Segredo Aldeia Rum perfectly embodies this. We recognise that the luxury segment is where we have a right to win, where we can truly add value. Acquiring these brands is a natural next step in our premiumisation strategy. This isn’t just an acquisition; it demonstrates our deep understanding of where we can create the most value. This is the future of ABD, and we’re executing this vision with precision.” 

Rajiv Thadani, Founder and Managing Director of Fullarton Distilleries Private Limited, said, “Building Fullarton Distilleries since 2013 has been a journey of passion, dedication, and a commitment to crafting world-class spirits. We’re proud to see these brands move forward with ABD, a company that has the scale, expertise, and vision to take them even further. With their leadership, we are confident that the legacy we’ve built will continue to grow and thrive in the years ahead.”