United Breweries contributes Rs 43,000 Cr to India’s economy
An independent socio-economic impact study has revealed that the value chain of United Breweries Limited (UBL), part of The Heineken Company, contributes approximately Rs 43,000 crore to the Indian economy. . .
An independent socio-economic impact study has revealed that the value chain of United Breweries Limited (UBL), part of The Heineken Company, contributes approximately Rs 43,000 crore to the Indian economy while supporting around 295,000 jobs and livelihoods across sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, logistics, retail, hospitality and tourism. Conducted by Steward Redqueen, the study quantifies the broader economic footprint of India’s largest beer company, highlighting how the beer industry’s contribution extends far beyond brewing to support farmers, manufacturers, transport providers, retailers, restaurants and tourism-related businesses across the country. According to the report, UBL’s operations and value chain generate value added equivalent to nearly 0. 1 per cent of India’s GDP. The study also points to a significant multiplier effect, with economic activity extending across agriculture, packaging, logistics, retail and hospitality. Employment emerged as a major contributor to this impact. The study estimates that UBL’s value chain supports approximately 295,000 livelihoods nationwide. For every job directly supported by the company, around 31 additional jobs and livelihoods are sustained across the wider economy. The report also underscores UBL’s strong domestic sourcing network. Around 93 per cent of the company’s inputs are sourced locally, with annual spending of approximately Rs 6,900 crore on Indian goods and services. This supports barley farmers, MSMEs, packaging manufacturers and regional supplier ecosystems, strengthening local manufacturing and supply chain resilience. The study further estimates that UBL’s value chain contributes approximately Rs 30,600 crore in tax revenues, equivalent to around 1. 3 per cent of total state tax revenues. It notes that for every Rs 100 consumers spend on beer, approximately Rs 63 accrues to state governments, supporting public services and infrastructure. Beyond its economic impact, the report highlights beer’s contribution to tourism and hospitality, estimating tourism-linked consumption generates around Rs 2,240 crore in economic activity for hotels, restaurants, retailers and local businesses. The report also notes UBL’s continued investments in water stewardship, sustainable agriculture, community development and responsible consumption initiatives. Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to India, Marisa Gerards, shared, “Dutch businesses such as Heineken through United Breweries demonstrate how international investment, combined with strong local roots, can support jobs and strengthen domestic value chains. The findings of the Socio-Economic Impact Study highlight these meaningful contributions to Indian economic development. We firmly believe that responsible investment drives long-term growth and hence the India-Netherlands strategic partnership continues to build upon a shared commitment of enhancing trade, investment, and innovation. ”Joanna Price, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, The Heineken Company, said, "India is one of Heineken's most important growth markets globally, and this study highlights beer’s economic footprint far beyond the brewery gates. Every glass of beer supports a network of farmers, suppliers, retailers, hospitality businesses and local communities. It is a powerful reminder that a thriving beer industry helps create jobs, stimulate investment and contributes to broader economic growth. ”Vivek Gupta, MD & CEO, United Breweries Limited, shared, “Beer has long played an important social and economic role in India. Made from natural ingredients, it supports farmers and livelihoods across the country. This study validates the scale of that contribution, showing that UBL’s value chain contributes nearly Rs 43,000 crore to India’s economy, equivalent to almost 0. 1 per cent of India's GDP. As India builds towards becoming a $5 trillion economy and consumption continues to evolve, beer is well positioned to play an even larger role in growth and employment. As the maker of Kingfisher, we are committed to ensuring good times are enjoyed responsibly while contributing to India's growth story. ”Dr. René Kim, Senior Partner, Steward Redqueen, added, “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, in both formal and less formal parts of the economy. It shows how the beer sector supports incomes, strengthens local supply chains and contributes meaningfully to government revenues across India. ”The study was released at an event hosted at the residence of Ambassador Marisa Gerards of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to India, attended by senior stakeholders from industry and government.