New Delhi, July 8, 2026: An independent socio-economic impact study has found that the United Breweries Limited (UBL) value chain contributes approximately ₹43,000 crore in value added to the Indian economy and supports around 2.95 lakh employment opportunities across agriculture, manufacturing, logistics, retail, hospitality and tourism. The study, conducted by Steward Redqueen and supported by macroeconomic analysis from Artha Global, was unveiled by UBL CEO Vivek Gupta at an event hosted by Marisa Gerards, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to India.
The findings highlight how beer’s economic footprint extends well beyond brewing, supporting farmers, manufacturers, transport providers, retailers, restaurants and local tourism businesses across India. UBL sources approximately 93 per cent of its inputs locally, strengthening domestic supply chains across agriculture, packaging, logistics, retail and hospitality while generating additional economic activity across these sectors. The study found the company’s overall economic contribution is equivalent to nearly 0.1 per cent of India’s GDP.
The study also highlighted the sector’s role in supporting agriculture through local sourcing and investments in sustainable farming practices, alongside water stewardship and community development initiatives, with the report noting that such measures could further strengthen domestic supply chains while benefiting farmers, MSMEs and local manufacturing.
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Vivek Gupta, CEO, United Breweries Limited, said: “Growth is most meaningful when it creates value beyond the business itself. Every number in this study represents people — our farmers, suppliers, customers, partners and colleagues who collectively create shared value across the country. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to doing so responsibly, strengthening local ecosystems and contributing to India’s long-term progress.”
Dr René Kim, Senior Partner, Steward Redqueen, said: “From grain to glass, UBL’s value chain reaches deep into the Indian economy. This study captures that full footprint — from breweries and suppliers to distributors, retailers, hospitality outlets and the many people whose livelihoods depend on them.”
The broader beer industry picture is equally significant. India’s beer industry as a whole adds approximately ₹92,000 crore to the country’s GDP and supports 13 lakh jobs, making it one of the more consequential sectors in India’s food and beverage economy. UBL, as India’s largest beer company and part of The HEINEKEN Company, accounts for a significant share of this contribution through its nationwide manufacturing and distribution network.
The study also generated commercial momentum alongside its research findings. New MoUs worth ₹2,500 crore were signed at the event, signalling continued investment interest in India’s beer sector from manufacturers, suppliers and industry partners.
For policymakers and state excise departments, the study’s numbers offer a data-backed argument for the beer industry’s role as a contributor to employment, agricultural income and tax revenues — going well beyond the traditional excise revenue conversation. UBL alone generates ₹30,600 crore in tax revenues for central and state governments, making it one of the largest single contributors to excise collections among consumer goods companies in India.
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