Mallya''s United Spirits lifts Whyte &

16 May 2007

United Spirits said it sees significant revenue growth opportunities from its acquisition of Whyte & Mackay. The UB Group will provide access to India and other large emerging markets, allowing an acceleration of Whyte & Mackay''s growth plans, the release said.

"The potential for premium Scotch whiskey in India is enormous and, with the acquisition of Whyte and Mackay, we now have a strong portfolio of international recognised brands that we will immediately introduce into the Indian market and use our strong distribution muscle fully to our advantage," Mallya said.

United Spirits will have access to global distribution and can look forward to exporting brands from India, he said.

Whyte & Mackay is a leading distiller of Scotch whisky, owning brands including The Dalmore, Isle of Jura, Glayva, Fettercairn, the eponymous Whyte & Mackay blended Scotch and the Viadivar vodka brand.

United Spirits also owns several other Scotch Whisky brands such as Mackinlays, John Barr, Cluny and Clayrnore amongst a host of others, the release added.

The company has delivered strong revenue and profit growth as a result of internationalizing its premium brands and maximizing the returns from its attractive bulk whisky assets.