India: Beer sales volume increases in 2014

Microbreweries, pubs, beer startups and beer cafes are fuelling growth of imported and new varieties of beer in India, backed by willing PE firms and angel investors, according to Euromonitor.

Last year, Cerana Beverages raised Rs 9 crore from angel investors and PE funds, making it the first deal for a craft beer venture.

Beer Cafe, promoted by BTB Marketing, raised Rs 30 crore from Granite Hill Capital Partner and Marico promoter Harsh Mariwala two months ago.

India’s per capita beer consumption reached 1.9 litres last year – the lowest among BRIC nations. Total beer sales volume is estimated to have risen to 2.41 bln litres in 2014 from 2.24 bln in 2013.

Imported beers form less than 1% of the Indian market, which is dominated by premium lagers with 80% market share.

United Breweries control more than half the market, with a share of 50.6% in 2013, followed by SABMiller India with 26.8% and Carlsberg India with 7%.

25 February, 2015