India: AB InBev to launch chain of microbreweries in India

AB InBev, the world’s largest brewer, will launch a premium chain of microbreweries in India in a partnership with The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), BeverageDaily.com reported on October 4.

AB InBev and IHCL – the largest hospitality company in Southeast Asia – will open 15 microbreweries over the next five years, located within IHCL hotels.

The microbreweries will be conceptualized by ZX Ventures, AB InBev’s global innovation and investment team.

“This exclusive partnership will leverage the collective strengths of the two leading companies to shape the future of quality craft beer in India,” say the two companies in a statement.

“AB InBev, with its in-house brewing expertise will offer the best craft beers using the finest natural ingredients. This coupled with IHCL’s culinary prowess and exemplary service, housed in a vibrant and high-energy environment, will celebrate the spirit of new India."

JOI Design from Hamburg will design the microbreweries.

The microbreweries will be located in the top urban cities in India, the first of which will be at Taj MG Road, Bengaluru, followed by Goa, Mumbai and Hyderabad.

Incorporated by the founder of the Tata Group, Jamsetji Tata, IHCL operates 190 hotels (including 38 under development) across 12 countries. These include Taj – ‘the hallmark of iconic hospitality’, SeleQtions, a named collection of hotels, Vivanta, upscale hotels and Ginger in the lean luxe segment.

04 October, 2019