The Hindu Business Line : UB Group to launch new wine retailing model

Speaking to Business Line, Mr Abhay Kewadkar, Chief Wine-Maker & Business Head of USL, said, “We are looking at having exclusive tie ups with the existing wine owners and we could begin by providing logistical support for their operations.”

In Maharashtra, there are wine bars in places such as Nashik and there is possibility of the UB Group partnering with them for its wine retailing business. Mr Kewadkar said, “There would be different models for wine retailing. It could be franchisees who could be appointed to run our bars and lounges, or we could also look at partnering the existing wine bar owners and support them to run the operations. There are a few independent wine bars in Nashik and we could begin by lending logistical and operational support to them.” The company is targeting ‘wine-friendly’ States of Maharashtra and Karnataka before taking its wine bars across the country. “We would begin with the metros and then graduate to the tier-II and -III cities. Maharashtra is more encouraging for our business as it is easier to get licences here,” said Mr Kewadkar.

The company recently commenced a greenfield project in Maharashtra by partnering with the local Pawar family in Baramati. It is now looking at the possibility of introducing its own branded wine bars across the State.

International wines

Besides, the UB Group is getting ready to add to its international wine portfolio after buying out the French winery company of Bouvet Ladubey. In fact, through its group company of United Vintners Ltd, it is also bringing in imported brands such as Hunters and Astro Labe from New Zealand.

USL Wines has brands such as Golconda and Zinzi in its portfolio and expects to reach a Rs 30-crore turnover next fiscal.

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