Radico brings Japanese premium whiskey to India

Mumbai, Apr 08: The second largest liquor maker in India, Radico Khaitan, announced an international tie-up for distribution and marketing pact to launch two premium whiskey brands of Japan's Suntory Liquors.

Abhishek Khaitan, MD Radico Khaitan stated: "With these brands, Radico will be entering a niche segment in the Indian market. Suntory, therefore, is a logical and strategic move."

He added that the strategic affiliation will add a further premium to the brand Radico Khaitan and its portfolio.

Suntory's 12-year-old single malt Yamazaki and its 17-year-old blended whisky Hibiki will be marketed at premium bars and retail outlets across metros by July 2011, sporting price tags between Rs. 6,500 and Rs. 10,000, reports added.

Commenting on the deal, Suntory Liquors International Liquor Division COO Norio Mase said, with Radico Khaitan's strong distribution network, the company would be able to offer its award-winning whiskey brands in India.

Radico Khaitan International Business Division Senior Vice-President Ankur Sachdeva said, Suntory's premium whiskey brands will soon be available at star hotels and fine dining restaurants across select metros.

Certain sections of the media also quoted Ankur Sachdeva, state: "We are in talks with two other players and we want to bring in iconic brands. We hope to announce at least one more equally significant announcement by October."

OneIndia News