Japan’s Suntory in talks for 15% stake in ‘Officer’s Choice’ whisky maker ABD

Japanese beverage company Suntory Holdings is in early talks to acquire a minority stake in Mumbai-based Allied Blenders and Distillers (ABD). The potential transaction involves the acquisition of a 10-15% stake from the promoters of the spirits company.Allied Blenders and Distillers is the manufacturer of Officer’s Choice whisky and currently operates 38 manufacturing units. The company raised INR 1,500 Cr through an initial public offering two years ago.Suntory currently maintains a significant presence in India’s premium spirits market through brands such as Yamazaki, Hibiki, Toki, and Jim Beam and operates a manufacturing plant in Rajasthan alongside third-party bottling facilities.