After a washed-out year, beer makers bet big on summer for FY27 growth

Mint, “We need to see how the weather holds up and how much it impacts consumption.”India’s beer market, which sold about 440 million cases in 2025, is expected to close FY26 with 4-5% growth despite a weak first half. The industry is now looking to FY27 for a more meaningful rebound, with volumes likely to reach 455-460 million cases if favourable weather persists, said Vinod Giri, director general of the Brewers Association of India.“Despite all the early setbacks in FY26, we should end the year in positive territory, around 3-4% growth.

If the weather holds, even a normal summer should see the industry grow 8-10%(in FY27)," he added.April and May typically account for the bulk of annual beer sales, making these months critical for brewers. March is usually slower, as license renewals in many states briefly disrupt supply.The Brewers Association of India, representing United Breweries, AB InBev, and Carlsberg, accounts for roughly 80% of the country’s beer market, according to international drinks consultancy IWSR.

The rest of the market is held by smaller players such as Simba, Medusa, KatiPatang, and BeeYoung, among others.India is expected to sell about 450 million cases by FY27, with the sector projected to grow 7-8% annually over the long term, the Brewers Association said.Early signs are encouraging. An AB InBev India spokesperson said demand is improving in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Andhra Pradesh, supported by both a rising number of consumers and a steady shift toward premium beers.

Its premium brands—Budweiser, Hoegaarden, and Corona—continue to lead growth.The current improvement follows a turbulent period. In 2025, unseasonal rains and election-related restrictions hit peak summer sales for a