United Breweries, a key player in the Indian beer market, announced plans to introduce Amstel Grande, a Dutch premium beer, to India. This decision follows a significant 27% rise in demand for premium beers during the second quarter of FY2025. The announcement reflects the growing interest of Indian consumers in higher-end beer options.
Amstel Grande is a premium beer brand with a rich heritage, first brewed in Amsterdam in the 1870s. Known for its slow brewing process and high-quality ingredients, the brand aims to offer a distinctive taste experience to beer lovers in India. While United Breweries has yet to confirm the exact launch date, the company’s optimism is clear as it enters this competitive segment.
The company shared the news through an exchange filing, emphasizing the potential of the Indian market. “Amstel, the iconic premium beer brand crafted in Amsterdam since 1870, is excited to announce its debut in India with Amstel Grande. Slow brewed with the finest ingredients, Amstel Grande promises to deliver an unparalleled beer experience to Indian consumers,” United Breweries stated.
United Breweries highlighted that the overall premium beer market in India grew by 27% in the second quarter of FY2025, with a half-yearly growth rate of 35%. This surge has been primarily fueled by increasing demand for other premium labels like Kingfisher Ultra, Kingfisher Ultra Max, and Heineken Silver. The company remains optimistic about future growth, citing factors like rising disposable incomes, favorable demographics, and a trend toward premiumization among consumers.
Simultaneously, Heineken NV, the promoter of United Breweries, reported a 4.5% growth in the premium beer segment during the September quarter. This growth was led by Heineken’s flagship brand, along with strong contributions from Kingfisher Ultra in India, according to Dolf van den Brink, Chairman and CEO of Heineken.
Heineken NV, which has a significant stake in United Breweries, continues to support the expansion of premium beer offerings in India. United Breweries, known for popular labels like Kingfisher and other regional brands such as Zingaro and Kalyani Black Label, is positioning itself to cater to India’s evolving beer preferences with this new launch.
As the demand for premium beer grows, Amstel Grande’s introduction is expected to attract consumers looking for a refined beer experience. United Breweries’ focus on quality and its deep understanding of the Indian market could make Amstel Grande a strong contender in the premium beer category.