Tag Archives: United Breweries Limited

United Breweries launches Kingfisher Smooth

Leave a reply

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.

UBL, AB InBev, Carlsberg jointly form Brewers’ Association of India

Leave a reply

In a move that might not be surprising to many, India’s leading beer manufacturers United Breweries – controlled by Dutch manufacturer Heineken, AB InBev, and Carlsberg have come together to jointly forming a new industry body Brewers’ Association of India (BAI). The three companies own the 85% of the beer market in India via their brands Budweiser, Hoegaarden, Corona, Carlsberg, Tuborg among others.

While UBL leads the Indian beer market with its brands Kingfisher, Kalyani Black, Heineken, Amstel Bier. BAI, which is formed in partnership with the World Brewing Alliance (WBA), and is expected to focus on growing the beer category in India, drive innovation, moderation, and sustainability in the Indian beer market.

WBA is the global industry body consisting of brewers and brewing trade associations from leading markets, including Australia, Canada, the US, Europe, Japan, Korea, Latin America, Brazil, and New Zealand.

BAI is headquartered in Delhi and is going to be headed by Vinod Giri, who will assume office on June 1, 2024. Giri until now was heading the Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC), the apex body of the Indian alcoholic beverage industry.

“The time is right for brewers to raise their voice on these issues. The Brewers of India will be a vital part of promoting moderate drinking, promoting our industry,” said Justin Kissinger, President and CEO, WBA.

The new association will also be open to other brewers, Indian and international both, who share the belief in growing the Indian beer industry responsibly.

AB InBev India President Kartikeya Sharma said, “There are many barriers to the growth of India’s beer category, including inequitable taxation, accessibility, and the ease of doing business. We will continue to advocate to unlock a new era for the beer category.”

Carlsberg India MD Nilesh Patel said, “The beer industry is an important sector for the states as it provides significant direct and indirect employment and generates significant revenues for the state to invest for its citizens.

“Through the Brewers’ Association of India, the industry expects to bring best global practices and further strengthen the sector.”

UBL MD & CEO Vivek Gupta said, “Together, the industry can help shape policies promoting responsible choices for consumers around moderate alcohol beverages, a robust taxation and regulatory framework and promoting investments for socio-economic benefits. We look forward to collaborate with governments and other stakeholders.”

The three companies have significantly invested in India. While Carlsberg operates seven breweries, UBL has 19 and AB InBev India has 10 of them across the country.