Beer sales pack a punch

Microbreweries, pubs, beer startups and beer cafes are fuelling growth of imported and new varieties of beer in India, backed by willing PE firms and angel investors, according to Euromonitor. Last year, Cerana Beverages raised Rs 9 crore from angel investors and PE funds, making it the first deal for a craft beer venture. Beer Cafe, promoted by BTB Marketing, raised Rs 30 crore from Granite Hill Capital Partner and Marico promoter Harsh Mariwala two months ago. The overall beer market is dominated by strong beers, led by Indian premium and midpriced segments. Imported beers form a very small proportion of the market. Ratna Bhushan reports.