Asahi Group Holdings Ltd has announced its entry into India’s non-alcohol, non-carbonated beverage segment through a strategic franchise partnership with Varun Beverages Limited (VBL), one of the country’s largest beverage manufacturers and distributors. The collaboration will introduce the iconic Japanese beverage brand CALPIS to Indian consumers, marking Asahi Group’s first venture into this category in the Indian market.
The launch is expected to commence in the second half of 2026, with ready-to-drink dairy-based beverages available in two variants—Original and Mango. The products will bring CALPIS’ distinctive sweet and tangy taste to Indian consumers, combining more than a century of Japanese beverage heritage with local market expertise.
First introduced in Japan in 1919, CALPIS is recognized as the country’s pioneering fermented milk beverage. Produced through the fermentation of skimmed milk using proprietary cultures, the drink has built a loyal consumer base across generations and has expanded into multiple international markets. Today, CALPIS products are sold in more than ten countries and regions, with offerings tailored to local preferences.
Under the terms of the alliance, Asahi Group will oversee product development, formulation expertise and technical support, while its Indian operations will manage marketing and brand-building initiatives. Varun Beverages will be responsible for manufacturing, distribution and sales through its extensive nationwide network.
India represents one of the fastest-growing beverage markets globally, driven by a large and youthful population, rising disposable incomes and increasing demand for differentiated beverage choices. The partnership positions both companies to capitalize on these long-term consumption trends while expanding the range of non-carbonated beverage options available to Indian consumers.
Atsushi Katsuki, President and Group CEO of Asahi Group Holdings, said the company is pleased to introduce a brand with over 100 years of heritage to one of the world’s most dynamic consumer markets. He noted that Varun Beverages’ manufacturing scale and market reach make it an ideal partner for establishing CALPIS in India.
Varun Jaipuria, Executive Vice Chairman of Varun Beverages Limited, said the partnership aligns with the company’s strategy of expanding into high-potential beverage categories. He added that CALPIS’ strong legacy, combined with VBL’s production capabilities and distribution infrastructure, creates a compelling opportunity to build a leading dairy-based beverage brand in India.
Varun Beverages Limited (VBL) is the world’s second-largest PepsiCo franchisee outside the United States and one of the leading beverage companies in India. The company operates across 27 states and six Union Territories in India and has an expanding international footprint spanning Nepal, Sri Lanka, Morocco, Zambia, Zimbabwe, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Namibia, Botswana, Madagascar and Mozambique.
VBL manufactures, distributes and markets a comprehensive portfolio of carbonated soft drinks, juices, value-added beverages, sports drinks and packaged drinking water under PepsiCo’s globally recognized brands. Supported by an extensive manufacturing and distribution network, the company serves millions of consumers across diverse geographies while continuously enhancing operational efficiency and market reach.
A part of the diversified RJ Corp Group, Varun Beverages benefits from a strong business ecosystem with interests spanning beverages, quick-service restaurants, dairy products, ice cream, retail, education and healthcare. The company continues to strengthen its leadership in the beverage industry through product innovation, sustainable business practices, manufacturing excellence and strategic partnerships that support long-term growth across domestic and international markets.
Founded in 1889, Asahi Group Holdings is one of the world’s leading food and beverage companies, offering a broad portfolio of beer, alcoholic beverages, non-alcoholic drinks and food products. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, the company has built a strong global presence through a combination of iconic brands, continuous innovation and a longstanding commitment to quality.
Operating across Japan, East Asia, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, Asahi Group supplies more than 10 billion litres of beverages annually to consumers worldwide. Its diverse portfolio combines globally recognized brands with the heritage and expertise of renowned breweries that have been developed over generations.
Guided by its corporate purpose, “Make the World Shine,” Asahi Group focuses on creating meaningful connections among people while advancing sustainable growth and responsible business practices. The company remains committed to delivering high-quality products, enhancing consumer experiences and contributing to a more sustainable future through innovation and environmental stewardship.
