Tag Archives: Heineken India

United Breweries launches Kingfisher Smooth

United Breweries Limited (UBL), part of the HEINEKEN Company, has launched Kingfisher Smooth. Brewed using imported hops and containing no added sugar, it delivers a smooth, balanced taste while retaining the strength consumers expect.

While Kingfisher Strong remains the benchmark for a classic, full-bodied beer, Kingfisher Smooth expands the flagship brand’s portfolio, reinforcing UBL’s commitment to innovation and consumer centricity. Kingfisher Smooth is now available across Rajasthan. It is priced at Rs. 100 for a 330 ml bottle, Rs. 145 for a 500 ml can, and Rs. 185 for a 650 ml bottle.

L-R: Mohit Raina, Category Director & Vivek Gupta, Chief Executive Officer, United Breweries Limited

Speaking on the launch, Vivek Gupta, Chief Executive Officer, United Breweries Limited, said, “Kingfisher has played a pioneering role in shaping India’s beer category, and we are a key recruiter to the segment, bringing young legal-age consumers into beer. With Kingfisher Smooth, we are introducing a first-ever game-changing innovation in the mainstream strong beer segment, designed for next-generation consumers. We’ve put intensive research, design and consumer testing into this launch, resulting in a winning combination of superior brew and packaging that reflects our commitment to innovation and our brand investments.”

“The strong beer segment continues to dominate beer consumption in India, and as drinking occasions diversify, we are seeing more consumers seek smoother, more approachable strong beers that are easier to enjoy without compromising the familiar taste they value. These insights are backed by extensive consumer testing, and Kingfisher Smooth addresses this shift by delivering a more balanced strong beer experience aligned with contemporary consumption occasions.”, added Vikram Bahl, Chief Marketing Officer, United Breweries Limited.

HEINEKEN names Vineeth Suresh as India GCC Head

HEINEKEN N.V., the Netherlands based brewing conglomerate has confirmed appointment of Vineeth Suresh to lead its India GCC in Hyderabad, HEINEKEN Business Services India Private Limited.

Vineeth most recently was a Partner with KPMG, leading the GCC sector in Consumer Markets & Retail. An experienced and transformative leader in the GCC space, he has previously been in leadership roles with other large organisations such as Diageo and Tesco.

Confirming the news, Ákos Magyari – Director HEINEKEN Business Services, stated that the appointment showcases the company’s strong commitment to use India as a strategic delivery and transformation hub. HEINEKEN Business Services India is an addition to HEINEKEN’s existing global network of connected hubs that will provide essential services and capabilities to Operating Companies within HEINEKEN. The business services network plays an important part in HEINEKEN’s EVERGREEN strategy.