Brands
United Breweries launches Kingfisher Flavours, expands beer portfolio
MUMBAI: It’s brewing up new flavours for its bubbly and frothy beer. India’s largest beer maker United Breweries Limited (UBL) and part of the Heineken, has expanded its Kingfisher brand with the launch of Kingfisher Flavours, featuring two unique variants: lemon masala and mango berry twist. Inspired by the vibrant energy of Indian street culture, these new flavors aim to redefine the beer experience in the flavored beer category.
The Kingfisher Flavours range merges innovation with consumer preferences for premium beer experiences, appealing particularly to a younger demographic seeking bold and unconventional tastes.
UBL chief marketing officer Vikram Bahl stated: “With Kingfisher Flavours, we’re tapping into India’s vibrant street culture and reimagining it to resonate with GenZ consumers. These flavors celebrate local ingredients and the spirit of experimentation.”
Currently available in Goa and Daman, Kingfisher Flavours plans to expand to other regions soon, offering more consumers a taste of this innovative product line.
The launch event in Mumbai featured live performances and merchandise unveilings from artists including Karan Kanchan, Yung Raja, and Rhea Chakraborty, further amplifying the celebration of local culture and creativity.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
