Diageo India CEO: Premium Spirits for All Shoppers

Get ready to spot your favorite premium spirits in smaller, more wallet-friendly sizes. Diageo India is shaking up its strategy to bring high-end drinks closer to everyday Indian shoppers, making luxury more attainable.

Praveen Someshwar, who took charge as MD & CEO on April 1, 2025, is leading this shift. His goal is to “democratise premium,” a move away from his predecessor Hina Nagarajan’s focus on exiting low-margin segments.

A Fresh Approach to Your Drink Choices

Someshwar’s strategy is rooted in a volume-driven approach, influenced by his background in fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). He understands the Indian consumer’s aspiration to upgrade, even citing an anecdote where a shopper wanted a 20 cl Johnnie Walker Red Label bottle.

• Introducing smaller pack sizes for high-end spirits.
• Creating new consumption opportunities for premium beverages.
• Launching zero-alcohol beverages and ready-to-drink cocktails.
• Revitalising aspirational brands like McDowell’s No. 1 with a more premium feel.

Key Numbers for Diageo India

Diageo India posted strong financial results in FY26, showcasing significant growth across its operations. These figures highlight the company’s robust performance and strategic financial moves.

• Consolidated net sales reached ₹12,448 crore in FY26.
• Profit after tax rose to ₹1,830 crore, marking a 17.5% increase year-on-year.
• The company sold its IPL team, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), for ₹16,663 crore.

This sale provided Diageo India with a debt-free balance sheet, freeing up funds for new investments. Though some found the RCB sale emotional, it was a sound strategic decision given global pressures to monetise non-core assets.

Expanding the Bar Cart

Diageo India is also branching out beyond traditional whiskies, bringing new options to the market. This expansion includes both new launches and the revitalization of existing popular brands.

• Launched tequila brand Don Julio, which quickly became a ₹100-crore brand.
• Revitalised Smirnoff vodka with new flavours like Minty Jamun and Mirchi Mango, driving significant growth.
• Acquired NAO Spirits, adding gin brands Greater Than and Hapusa, plus rum brand PIPA.
• Gained a stake in Nuvola Spirits, which includes Mikiamo Limoncello and Seoulmate soju.

These acquisitions reflect a focus on authentic Indian provenance and craft-led products, ensuring a diverse and exciting range for consumers. Praveen Someshwar also emphasised the importance of responsible consumption in their market presence.