Beer battles election blues, gin toasts summer gains

livemint.com:

Mint reported that United Breweries Ltd (UBL), the maker of Kingfisher and Heineken beers, expected potential supply chain disruptions due to election-related restrictions but still anticipated a strong summer season for business, forecasting high single-digit growth over last summer. “Navigating regulatory landscapes remains a challenge, particularly with high taxation and export constraints in key states," noted Kartikeya Sharma, president of AB InBev India. He also highlighted the socio-economic potential of the beer industry to generate employment, emphasizing its nature as a local and natural product.

“We are encouraging state governments to embrace the momentum induced by the summer so the industry can grow." AB InBev India is known for producing popular beers such as Budweiser and Corona Extra. However, there's a silver lining for tipplers looking for alternatives like gin or vodka. The shortfall in beer might turn into a boon for other categories.

Radico Khaitan's managing director Abhishek Khaitan said that premium gins are expected to see at least a 50% growth for their company this year. "Gin, while still a small part of the entire white spirits category, will see a noticeable jump due to more cocktail drinking occasions. This summer will help both gin and vodka grow," he noted.

The story is similar for other brands in the spirits sector. Greater Than gin, for example, has ramped up supplies and expanded into new states, anticipating continued growth. "Summer sales are significantly up from last year in all our major markets.