Soufflet Malt builds a new malthouse in India in partnership with United Breweries Ltd to strengthen the brewing ecosystem

Soufflet Malt, the world's leading maltster, announces a new project to build a state-of-the-art malthouse in South Rajasthan, India, in partnership with United Breweries Limited (UBL), part of the HEINEKEN Company and one of India's largest beer manufacturers. The new facility will provide high-quality malt for brewing of iconic beers such as Kingfisher and Heineken®, reflecting both companies' commitment to delivering exceptional beer to consumers in India while supporting sustainable agriculture, job creation and regional economic growth.

Malt capacity of 110,000 tonnes per year

The first phase of the facility is expected to be commissioned in the beginning of 2028. The new facility will kick off with a malt production capacity of 110,000 tonnes per year, with plans to double capacity during the second phase of the project.

"We are excited to build our second malthouse in India as part of our MALTiply 2030 strategy of leveraging our deep global capabilities locally," confirms CEO Jorge Solis. "We are thrilled to partner with United Breweries Limited and are proud to supply high quality malt for their trusted brands. The company's strong reputation for excellence, quality and sustainability provides a solid foundation for long-term value creation. For us, today is much more than business growth; it's about two industry leaders coming together to deliver the best and benefit our ecosystem: the agricultural community, our partners, suppliers and consumers."

Brewing local prosperity

The new malthouse will generate significant employment opportunities, creating 400 direct and indirect jobs, along with 700 positions across the supply chain. Moreover, the investment will empower and train 50,000+ Indian farmers with a plan to source up to 250,000 tonnes of barley annually. This offers stable income and market access to growers while championing the adoption of sustainable farming practices. By building a robust ecosystem involving agronomists and logistics providers, Soufflet Malt and United Breweries Limited will help ensure success for industries and entrepreneurs throughout Rajasthan.

Sustainability

The new malt facility is designed with sustainability at its core. With zero liquid discharge systems and advanced water management initiatives, the company is clearly committed to decarbonization. Digital grain handling systems will also ensure operations are integrating the latest digital technology and automation.

Vivek Gupta, MD & CEO, United Breweries Limited says, "As a category maker, we are committed to the long-term growth of beer in India. Our partnership with Soufflet Malt is strategic and future focused, strengthening our backward integration, securing a consistent supply of highquality malt and preparing us for the next phase of category growth.

This state-of-the-art malthouse reinforces our sustainable sourcing ambitions and further positions Rajasthan as an important brewing hub, supporting farmers, local agriculture, economic development and employment opportunities. This partnership brings together two industry leaders to strengthen innovation, ensure supply security, and drive long term value."

Long-Term Commitment

Soufflet Malt already has roots in India with a malt house in Alwar, Rajasthan, boasting an 18,000-ton capacity. Since 2014, the company is working hand-in-hand with local growers to cultivate topnotch barley that's grown, malted, and sold locally adding value every step of the way.

Shares of United Breweries Limited was last trading in BSE at Rs. 1606.35 as compared to the previous close of Rs. 1615.90. The total number of shares traded during the day was 2032 in over 274 trades.

The stock hit an intraday high of Rs. 1616.30 and intraday low of 1599.20. The net turnover during the day was Rs. 3260563.00.

Source : Equity Bulls

Keywords

UnitedBreweries INE686F01025 SouffletMalt Partnership