Diageo & United Spirits - The Denouement

The waiting is finally over. Diageo has agreed a deal to take a controlling stake in UB Group's United Spirits division in India. Here's how the story unfolded over the last few months.

INDIA: Diageo agrees US$2.05bn deal for United Spirits stake

9 November 2012

Diageo has agreed a deal to acquire a 53.4% controlling stake in United Spirits for INR111.7bn (US$2.05bn), the companies said today.

just On Call: United Spirits' Mallya - "I have not sold the family silver"

9 November 2012

United Spirits' chairman Vijay Mallya has rejected the idea he has “sold the family silver” by agreeing a deal with Diageo and said it is a “dream come true”.

just On Call: Diageo boss 'ambivalent' over possible Whyte & Mackay sell-off

9 November 2012

Diageo boss Paul Walsh has said he is “ambivalent” about the possible prospect of losing Whyte & Mackay to ensure the United Spirits deal goes through.

US: Diageo keeps mum on latest United Spirits talk

7 November 2012

The CFO of Diageo has reiterated the company's intention not to be drawn on speculation suggesting that a tie-up with UB Group's United Spirits division is imminent.

Comment – Wehring's Way - United Spirits: Save it 'til the Morning After

30 October 2012

Like many other 'industry observers', I noted Reuters' brief chat with UB Group's Vijay Mallya at the Indian Grand Prix last weekend with interest.

INDIA: UB Group chief sparks uncertainty around Diageo deal - report

29 October 2012

Vijay Mallya, the head of India's UB Group, says he is "under no compulsion whatsoever" to sell a stake in United Spirits to Diageo to fund his embattled Kingfisher airline.

Comment - Wehring's Way - Diageo and UB Group: Time for a Rest?

15 October 2012

The reports out of India late last week that the chairman of The UB Group has been hit with a warrant for his arrest will have been greeted with raised eyebrows by many in our industry – not least, those of you that work for Diageo.

INDIA: UB Group chairman hit with warrant as airline cheque bounces – report

12 October 2012

A 'non-bailable warrant' for Vijay Mallya, the head of India's UB Group, has been issued in the country, according to local reports.

In the Spotlight - Diageo and United Spirits

27 September 2012

On Tuesday, Diageo confirmed it was in talks with United Spirits over buying a stake in the UB Group-owned Indian drinks firm.

just the Facts - Diageo and India

25 September 2012

Earlier today (25 September), Diageo confirmed that it is seeking to buy a stake in UB Group's United Spirits division in India. Here's a look at the Indian alcoholic drinks landscape and Diageo's current position in it.