United Spirits (“Diageo India”) announced an investment of Rs 31.5 crore to acquire a strategic minority stake in Nao Spirits & Beverages (“Nao Spirits”). Upon completion of the investment, Diageo India will hold 22.5% of the equity share capital of the company on a fully diluted basis and a call option to acquire the remaining shares on pre-agreed principles.

Launched in 2016 by Anand Virmani, with the dream of bringing an Indian botanical infused gin to the world, Nao Spirits is an emerging craft gin company in India, with award winning brands ’Greater Than’ and ’Hapusa’. Greater Than, India’s first craft gin, is made from 9 botanicals from India and around the world and is the only London Dry Gin from South Asia recognized by the Gin Guild, UK. Awarded gold at the Asian Gin Masters Awards 2021 and silver at the San Francisco World Spirits Awards 2018, Greater Than is perfect for cocktails and Gin &Tonic, making it the ideal “pouring brand” at the best bars across the country. Luxury gin Hapusa is one of the few craft gins in the world made with foraged Himalayan Juniper and unique botanicals such as fresh turmeric, Gondhoraj peel and raw mango which are native to India, to create a bold and earthy gin. Hapusa has been awarded gold at the International Wine & Spirits Competition 2021, UK and double gold at the SIP Awards 2020, USA.

Nao Spirits provides Diageo India with an opportunity to strengthen its participation in the fast-growing premium gin segment in India. As consumers shift towards experimentation, repertoire and casual drinking occasions, demand for local, yet authentic craft-oriented brands is increasing. Nao Spirits brands are well placed to cater to these trends.

Hina Nagarajan, managing director and chief executive officer, Diageo India, commented, “As a company built from founder-led brands, we are excited to make our first move in India to support bold and path-breaking entrepreneurs. Over the last three years, the Indian market has witnessed the emergence of multiple craft gin players and Nao Spirits has been a game changer in the category. Our team is deeply committed to supporting Anand Virmani, Aparajita Ninan & Abhinav Rajput, who will continue to run the business, to deliver Nao’s vision of placing Indian craft gin amongst the world’s most coveted craft spirits."

Anand Virmani, co-founder and chief executive officer, Nao Spirits & Beverages commented, “We are delighted to partner with a company like Diageo which has supported craft spirits brands. This investment is a validation of the hard work, creativity, grit and passion of our team. As we look to chart the next phase of growth of Nao Spirits, the investment from Diageo India will help scale our business, improve efficiencies, and access mentorship from an industry leader, which will be immensely valuable.”

The investment will be funded through Diageo India’s internal cash resources.