United Breweries launches Kingfisher Smooth in India 

INDIA – United Breweries Limited (UBL), part of the HEINEKEN Company, has expanded its Kingfisher portfolio with the launch of Kingfisher Smooth, a new strong beer positioned to appeal to next-generation legal-age consumers in India. 

According to the company, Kingfisher Smooth is designed for younger consumers who prefer strong beers but seek a smoother and more approachable drinking experience. 

The beer is brewed using imported hops and contains no added sugar, delivering what UBL describes as a smooth, balanced taste while retaining the strength associated with the Kingfisher brand. 

Speaking on the launch, Vivek Gupta, Chief Executive Officer of United Breweries Limited, said the product represents a significant step for the company in the mainstream strong beer segment.  

“With Kingfisher Smooth, we are introducing a first-ever game-changing innovation in the mainstream strong beer segment, designed for next-generation consumers,” Gupta said. 

UBL said the launch is the result of intensive research, design work and consumer testing, which led to a combination of a refined brew and differentiated packaging. The company noted that evolving consumer preferences and drinking occasions were key factors behind the product’s development. 

Vikram Bahl, Chief Marketing Officer at UBL, highlighted the continued importance of the strong beer category in India.  

“The strong beer segment continues to dominate beer consumption in India, and as drinking occasions diversify, we are seeing more consumers seek smoother, more approachable strong beers that are easier to enjoy without compromising the familiar taste they value,” Bahl said. 

While Kingfisher Strong remains the brand’s classic, full-bodied offering, UBL said Kingfisher Smooth expands the flagship portfolio and reinforces its focus on innovation and consumer-centric product development.  

UBL’s wider portfolio includes Kingfisher Premium, Kingfisher Ultra, Kingfisher Ultra Max, Kingfisher Ultra Witbier, Heineken Original, Heineken Silver, Amstel Grande and Heineken 0.0. 

The new product has initially been launched in Rajasthan, which UBL identified as one of India’s largest strong beer-consuming states.  

Alongside the launch, the company plans to increase its visi-cooler deployment by nearly 50% over the next year to improve beer accessibility. 

“Beer consumption drops sharply where consumers do not have access to cold beer, particularly in Tier-II and Tier-III towns,” Gupta said. “Visi-coolers directly drive category growth and market share.” 

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