New Delhi, Dec. 25 Bacardi Martini is eyeing acquisitions to consolidate its presence in India. The company is also looking to introduce international brands in the premium category besides upping its investments for branding and promotional activities.

“We are keenly eyeing brands, which will give us a distinctive edge in the white spirits market in the country. The company has to be fundamentally strong,” Mr Mahesh Madhavan, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bacardi-Martini India, told Business Line.

Bacardi Martini India is a 76:24 per cent joint venture between Bermuda-based Bacardi and home-grown Gemini Distillers. The company with a global turnover of $4 billion has reported a compounded annual growth rate of 20 per cent in India. The closely-held company’s Indian arm reportedly has a turnover of Rs 150 crore.

“Premium white spirits is a growing market in India and we are introducing a range of imported brands like the Bombay Sapphire gin and the Grey Goose premium vodka into our portfolio,” he said, adding that Bacardi Martini will be investing significantly to promote these brands. It is also mulling to introduce its premium vodka brand Eristoff and Vermouth brand in India soon.

The consumption in India currently stands at 227 million cases annually of which 114 million cases is contributed by beer while India Made Foreign Liquor accounts for about 111 million cases. Imported spirits make up for about one million cases and the rest is accounted for by wine.

Currently, the company sells nearly 10 lakh cases annually. “We hope to double the number of cases sold over the next three years,” Mr Madhavan said.

On the ready-to-drink segment, he said the company may add to Breezer’s range with vodka-based offerings.

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