Kirin boosts stake in Indian craft beer upstart Bira 91 by $70m

Japanese beverage company looks abroad as domestic beer consumption slows

20221122N Bira beer

B9's premium craft beer offerings are popular with young Indian drinkers.  (Photo courtesy of B9 Beverages)

JUNYA HEMMI, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- Japan's Kirin Holdings will increase its investment in the emerging Indian brewer of the popular Bira 91 beer by $70 million, part of a push into the global craft beer market as Japanese sales continue to decline.

Kirin, which invested $15 million in B9 Beverages during 2021, currently owns a 10% stake. The Japanese company did not disclose how large a share it will hold after the new investment, scheduled to be completed in November.

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