INDIA: InBev confirms India footprint growth

By just-drinks.com editorial team | 30 May 2008

InBev has confirmed that it is in talks to up its presence in India.

The global brewer, which is based in Belgium, was yesterday (29 May) reported to be close to securing a formal arrangement with Kool Breweries, located in the north Indian state of Haryana. Citing a "top official" at InBev India International, InBev's joint venture with Ravi Jaipurua in the country, The Economic Times claimed that InBev and Kool are testing the Indian firm's brewing capabilities before beginning bottling operations for Tennents and Lowenbrau.

Speaking to just-drinks today, a spokesperson for InBev said: "Our JV in India has been having discussions with various potential contract brewing partners in India, including Kool Breweries." The spokesperson declined to comment further.

Separate reports out of India claimed that InBev is also thought to be about to exit its bottling agreement with Impala Breweries, although the spokesperson would not comment on the claim.

Kool currently bottles SABMiller brands, including Royal Challenge, in Haryana, Punjab and Rajasthan. Reports two years ago claimed that SABMiller was also looking to buy the company, a claim the UK-based company would not comment on at the time.

The state of Haryana, which borders Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, has a population of just over 21m.

Sectors: Beer & cider

Companies: InBev, SABMiller