Top 10 Companies Dominating the India Beer Market Landscape, Supported by Changing Lifestyle

The India beer market reached a value of about INR 483.10 billion in 2023. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.9% in the forecast period of 2024-2032 to reach around INR 1,122.52 billion by 2032. As per the analysis by Expert Market Research, the market is expected to be driven by the changing lifestyle, increasing disposable income and rapid urbanisation.

Beer, an alcoholic beverage crafted from a blend of water, malted barley, hops, and various cereal grains such as rice, wheat, corn, and rye, possesses a diverse alcohol content ranging from under 3% to 40% ABV, depending on its style and formulation. Recognised as one of the most prevalent alcoholic drinks globally, beer undergoes a brewing process that involves extracting sugars from grains, typically malted barley, and fermenting them with yeast to produce alcohol and carbon dioxide, resulting in the beloved beverage enjoyed worldwide. Categorised into ales and lagers, each with distinct characteristics, ales offer a sweeter, fuller-bodied profile, while lagers provide a cleaner and crisper taste, influenced by their fermentation temperatures and yeast strains.

Shifting consumer lifestyles, accelerated urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and the burgeoning appeal of beer among younger demographics are key drivers propelling the surge in alcoholic beverage consumption rates, particularly for beer.

In India, consumer preferences lean heavily towards spirits such as whisky, vodka, brandy, and rum; however, there is a noticeable trend emerging where an increasing number of consumers are gravitating towards beer due to its comparatively lower alcohol content. This shift, coupled with reduced selling and distribution expenses in the country, is bolstering India beer market growth. Additionally, market growth in India is anticipated to be fuelled by ongoing product and packaging innovations.

In January 2024, Anheuser-Busch InBev (Ab InBev), the global beer giant, proposed a Rs 400 crore investment to enhance its brewery operations in Karnataka, India. The company, recognising Karnataka's strategic importance, already had a brewery in Mysuru and a capability centre in Whitefield. India emerged as the fourth largest market for the Budweiser brand worldwide in terms of volume sales. Ab InBev's expansion included diversifying its portfolio with offerings such as energy drinks, whiskey, rum, vodka, and gin.

Top 10 Beer Companies in India:

United Breweries Limited

At United Breweries, the company crafts beverages with passion, leveraging natural ingredients and optimal conditions to produce beloved offerings. As market leaders, the iconic Kingfisher brand connects with consumers, offering a diverse portfolio, including Kingfisher Strong, Heineken, and more. Committed to inclusivity and equal opportunities, the company prioritises employee well-being. Established in 1915, the beer business has thrived, with Kingfisher gaining international acclaim and dominating the Indian beer market. The company continues to innovate and expand the global presence with a robust distribution network.

Carlsberg Group

Carlsberg Group, a leading global brewery, boasts an extensive portfolio of beer and beverage brands enjoyed in 150+ markets. With core, craft, and alcohol-free options, the company holds top positions in over 20 markets. The company’s commitment to brewing excellence aligns with responsible and sustainable business practices, delivering value to both shareholders and society. As a global brewer with 140+ brands, the company continuously strive to enhance beers for today and tomorrow.

B9 Beverages Pvt. Ltd

Bira 91, a contemporary beer brand born in India, aims to revolutionise the global beer scene with flavourful offerings. Established in 2015, it swiftly became one of the world's fastest-growing brands, boasting a diverse portfolio of award-winning beers tailored for every occasion. With beers available in over 500 towns across 16 countries and brewed in four Indian breweries, Bira 91 has led the charge for more colourful and flavourful beers. Supported by investors like Sequoia Capital India and Sofina of Belgium, it employs over 600 beer enthusiasts, offering unique taproom experiences in Bengaluru alongside branded merchandise.

Anheuser-Busch InBev

Anheuser-Busch InBev, the world's premier brewer, constantly seeks innovative ways to enhance life's moments and make a positive impact. Committed to crafting enduring brands, the company brews the finest beers with over 500 diverse brands like Budweiser, Corona, and Stella Artois. The company’s rich brewing heritage spans 600 years, originating from Belgium to the U.S. and expanding globally. With approximately 167,000 colleagues across nearly 50 countries, the company maintains a geographically diversified presence in both developed and developing markets.

Devans Modern Breweries Ltd.

Established in 1961 by Dewan Gian Chand, Devans Modern Breweries Ltd. started as a liquor bottling plant, later adding a small brewery in 1967. Upgrading to a modern brewery in Samba in 2014 and another in Kotputli in 2006, Devans garnered international acclaim for its beer quality, winning the International Star Award for Quality in 2008. With a presence in over 20 Indian states and exports to 8 countries, its flagship Godfather Beer remains a market leader. Expanding into premium segments, Devans aims to diversify its product portfolio further.

Heineken N.V.

HEINEKEN, the world's foremost international brewer, excels in premium beer and cider brands with a portfolio exceeding 300 options. Anchored by Heineken®, the group prioritises innovation, sustained brand investment, precise sales execution, and prudent cost management. Sustainability is integral through "Brewing a Better World," benefiting stakeholders. With a balanced global presence across 70+ countries, HEINEKEN's 80,000+ employees operate breweries, malteries, and cider plants. This extensive reach empowers the company to influence consumer trends and explore new market opportunities.

Asahi Group Holdings Ltd.

Asahi Group Holdings, Ltd. stands as a global leader, offering a diverse collection of brands in the realms of beer, alcohol, non-alcohol beverages, and food. Since its establishment in Japan in 1889, the group has maintained a commitment to innovation and quality, resulting in a globally recognised portfolio that includes premium beers like Asahi Super Dry, Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Kozel, Pilsner Urquell, and Grolsch. With a presence in Japan, Europe, Oceania, and Southeast Asia, the group provides over 10 billion litres of beverages globally, generating annual revenues exceeding JPY 2.5 trillion.

Sinq Beverage Pvt Ltd.

Sinq Beverage Pvt Ltd's Bad Monkey Beer enjoys widespread popularity across India, embodying premium taste and quality from Delhi to Punjab and beyond. With its sights set on global recognition, the brand now targets international markets, already exporting to Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East. Backed by state-of-the-art facilities meeting international brewery standards, Sinq Beverage is an Indian corporation producing and marketing strong beer. Crafted with barley and hops from Europe and North America, complemented by Himalayan water, their beer delivers a premium experience.

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., America's oldest craft startup, began with a hand-built brewhouse, dedicated to crafting top-tier ales and lagers responsibly. Renowned for the best-selling Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, the company's founder is intricately involved in all brewery aspects, emphasising quality in ingredients and brewing techniques. This commitment extends to pioneering beer styles and environmental initiatives.

White Rhino Brewing Co.

Established in 2016, White Rhino Brewing Co. emerged as India's pioneer craft brewery, meticulously crafted in Malanpur, at the heart of the country. Nestled in the Chambal Region, renowned for its rugged terrain and historic significance, the company’s brewery boasts European and American standards, with equipment sourced globally. Dedicated to delivering superior quality, the company spared no effort in assembling a team and infrastructure to rival international counterparts. The company’s mission: to redefine India's beer landscape with fresh, flavourful brews, bridging the gap between local and imported offerings, setting a new standard of excellence.