New Delhi: DeVANS Modern Breweries has appointed Vikas Bhatia as its Chief Operating Officer (COO), bringing more than 30 years of experience across the beverage, alcoholic beverages and FMCG industries. The appointment comes as the company focuses on strengthening commercial operations, expanding its market presence and driving its next phase of growth.
Bhatia has held leadership positions at prominent companies, including Red Bull, SABMiller, Diageo, Radico Khaitan and Kraft Heinz. His experience across sales, marketing, commercial strategy and business development is expected to support DeVANS in improving operational performance and strengthening its competitive position in India’s beer and premium spirits market.
Founded in 1961, DeVANS Modern Breweries has evolved from its origins in liquor bottling into a diversified beverage company. Under Chairman and Managing Director Prem Dewan, the company has expanded its manufacturing footprint from one unit to four, building a portfolio spanning beer and premium spirits.
Commenting on the appointment, Dewan said the company aims to build on its six-decade legacy as it enters its next phase of growth. He highlighted Bhatia’s experience across leading beverage and FMCG businesses and his understanding of commercial development and market expansion as important assets for strengthening the company’s capabilities.
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DeVANS’ portfolio includes Six Fields beers, available in Brute, Cult, Blanche and Pilsner variants; Godfather beer; GianChand Indian single malt whisky, which reflects Jammu’s whisky-making heritage; and Gingalalahu gin. The company is focusing on product innovation, distinctive brand positioning and consumer engagement to strengthen its presence across categories.
Its brands have received international recognition, with Six Fields Brute winning gold and being named country winner at the World Beer Awards in the UK. Six Fields and GianChand have also received accolades at industry competitions. The company continues to invest in brand-building initiatives, including the #CheersForMore campaign featuring international cricket umpire Anil Chaudhary.
With an established manufacturing base and a diversified portfolio, DeVANS expects Bhatia’s leadership to strengthen commercial execution and support its ambition to become one of India’s leading beverage companies.
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