AB InBev to open microbreweries in India through hotel agreement

AB InBev has signed an agreement with The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) to launch a chain of microbreweries in India.

The deal, worth INR 1.5 billion ($21.2 million), will see 15 microbreweries open at key locations within IHCL’s network of hotels.

The companies said the partnership aims to “shape the future of quality craft beer in India”.

“We are delighted to partner with IHCL with its portfolio of exceptional hotels to open specialty microbreweries across top urban cities of India,” said Jan Craps, CEO of Budweiser APAC and president – APAC, AB InBev.

“The microbreweries will be conceptualised by ZX Ventures, our global innovation and investment team, that will bring in their global brewing expertise to develop the current ecosystem and delight our consumers.

“We look forward to working with the emerging craft community in the country and are confident that our synergies in this category will shape the craft beer industry in India.”

Puneet Chhatwal, IHCL CEO, added: “In our endeavour to bring the latest international trends and experiences for our guests, we are privileged to join hands with the world’s largest brewer, AB InBev. This partnership, exclusive to IHCL, will be a first of its kind in the hospitality industry in India.

“With its diverse collection of over 500 beer brands, AB InBev will be involved in setting up on-site microbreweries at some of our iconic hotels; the first of which will be at Taj MG Road, Bengaluru, followed by Goa, Mumbai and Hyderabad.”

IHCL operates 190 hotels, including 38 under development, across four continents, 12 countries and in more than 80 locations.