Tilaknagar Industries, renowned for its Mansion House brandy, is reportedly pursuing a bold move to acquire Pernod Ricard’s Imperial Blue whisky brand. The potential USD 600 million deal, if finalized, would be the Indian liquor industry’s largest M&A since Diageo’s United Spirits acquisition in 2013.
With over 90% of its sales stemming from brandy, Tilaknagar seeks to diversify into whisky — a category dominating India’s liquor market. Imperial Blue, a volume leader for Pernod Ricard, offers Tilaknagar a foothold in the whisky sector despite slowing demand in spirits.
Founded in 1933, Tilaknagar leads India’s brandy segment, accounting for nearly 25% of the market. The acquisition would complement its premium offerings and expand its product portfolio.
Amid market disruptions like tax hikes and distribution shifts, India’s liquor sector remains promising, with a projected growth to USD 115.27 billion by 2034. Whisky dominates this landscape, accounting for 48% of global consumption.
Source: Money Control