INDIA – Allied Blenders & Distillers (ABD), India’s third-largest spirits company, has announced the acquisition of Fullarton Distilleries’ premium craft spirits portfolio for Rs 40 crore (US$4.57M).
The deal strengthens ABD’s presence in the super-premium spirits market and underscores its commitment to innovation in India’s craft spirits industry.
The acquisition brings Fullarton’s well-regarded brands—Woodburns Whisky, Pumori Small Batch Gin, and Segredo Aldeia Rum—under ABD’s growing portfolio.
These brands, launched post-2019, have gained recognition in India’s evolving craft spirits segment for their high quality and artisanal appeal.
Rajiv Thadani, Managing Director of Fullarton Distilleries, commented, “This acquisition validates the potential within India’s craft spirits industry. Joining forces with ABD’s platform is a testament to the quality and consumer demand we’ve nurtured over the years. With ABD’s market expertise and strong distribution network, these brands are primed for accelerated growth.”
The acquisition aligns with ABD’s long-term strategy to diversify beyond its flagship brands and expand into the premium segment.
India’s alcoholic beverage market is expected to reach US$64 billion over the next five years, according to the International Spirits and Wines Association of India (ISWAI).
Alok Gupta, Managing Director of ABD, stated, “Acquiring these brands is a natural next step in our premiumization strategy. This isn’t just an acquisition; it demonstrates our deep understanding of where we can create the most value. This is the future of ABD, and we’re executing this vision with precision.”
Fullarton Distilleries will continue operating as an independent entity, focusing on further opportunities in the craft spirits sector while its flagship brands transition to ABD’s portfolio.
In the third quarter of FY 2024-25, the company reported a net profit of INR 57.46 crore (US$6.6M), a sharp recovery from a net loss of INR 4.42 crore (US$510K) in the same period last year.
Revenue from operations increased by 12.9 percent to INR 2,342.38 crore (US$270.38M), compared to INR 2,074.95 crore (US$239.5M) in the previous fiscal year.
Sales grew 8.84 percent to INR 973.94 crore (US$112.4M) in Q3 FY25.
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