United Spirits taps overseas expansion

United Spirits, the largest spirit making company in India is all set to expand in South-East Asia, Africa, and Middle East. The company is looking at acquisitions and franchise opportunities for overseas expansion.

At present, the company is in the process of examining the feasibility of expanding outside India. The company has franchising options for its multi-million dollar brands in these neighbouring countries. The company sells around 1.5 million cases annually to India’s neighbouring countries like Nepal.

Established in 1857, United Spirits owns Scottish whisky maker Whyte & Mackay that sells liquor brands like Antiquity, Black Dog, McDowell's No. 1 and Romanov vodka. The company recorded a sale of 100 million cases worth Rs 300 billion ($6.7 billion) in 2009-10.

The company is also investing Rs 6.5 billion to meet the rising demand for liquor in India. It will be done by acquiring local distilleries with a capacity range of 100 to 150 kilo litres per day.