Spirits giant Diageo anticipates an increasing value contribution from India, one of its top three global markets, driven by a premiumisation strategy, though doubling the topline by 2030 hinges on macroeconomic stability and policy consistency, said India MD & CEO Praveen Someshwar. The company remains "cautiously optimistic" about midterm growth, focusing on premium & above (P&A) segments with interventions in productivity and revenue management.

Speaking at a Bengaluru media roundtable, Someshwar projected double-digit P&A growth over the next five years, with expanding margins. Diageo India reported Rs 26,780 crore in revenue for FY25, operating brands like Johnnie Walker, Black & White, Smirnoff, and McDowell's. "India is a key growth market... our value contribution will keep rising," he noted, highlighting India's status as the largest market for Johnnie Walker Blonde and Black & White scotch.

The firm plans heavy investments in innovation and talent, targeting three consumer cohorts: Aspiring, Middle/Mainstream, and Affluent. With a portfolio including Rs 1,000 crore+ brands like Johnnie Walker, McDowell's No. 1, and Smirnoff, Diageo aims to leverage 100 million new legal drinking age consumers in five years, rising repertoire drinking, and innovations.

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While acknowledging the loss of market leadership to Pernod Ricard in FY24 after divesting 32 brands to Inbrew, Someshwar expressed confidence in regaining ground through accelerating core trademarks, Scotch recruitment, and white spirits scaling. "Our focus is outpacing the category with value growth, sharper execution, and sustained investments," he added, emphasising a "virtuous growth cycle" via premiumisation, innovation, and productivity. 

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