Core Insights - Multinational FMCG companies in India experienced sales impacts in the September quarter due to GST reforms and heavy rains, but anticipate growth in upcoming quarters supported by favorable macroeconomic conditions [1][2] Company Performance - Unilever reported that its emerging market performance is improving, particularly in India, despite short-term impacts from GST reforms, which are expected to benefit 40% of its portfolio with nearly a 10% price reduction [3] - Reckitt's net revenue growth in India was affected by new GST slabs, but it achieved volume-led growth in its Dettol brand [4] - Reckitt's CFO noted that the impact of GST phasing in Q3 was low to mid-single digits, with like-for-like growth in India being low single digits [5] - Heineken's beer volume in India declined by mid-single digits due to heavy rains, but its organic net revenue grew by a mid-single-digit percentage, supported by price hikes [7][8] - Coca-Cola and PepsiCo reported disruptions in the September quarter due to weather conditions, with Coca-Cola's COO highlighting the potential for long-term growth in India despite current competitive pressures [9][10] - Pernod Ricard's sales in India increased by 3%, although they were negatively impacted by excise policy changes in Maharashtra [10][11] - Nestle SA noted strong performance and good momentum in India in its global earnings report [12]

Core Insights - FMCG companies in India experienced sales impacts in the September quarter due to GST reforms and heavy rains, but anticipate growth in upcoming quarters driven by favorable macroeconomic conditions [1] Company Performance - Unilever reported short-term impacts from GST reforms but expects long-term benefits, with a 10% price reduction benefiting 40% of its portfolio [3] - Reckitt's net revenue growth in India was affected by new GST slabs, although it saw volume-led growth in its Dettol brand [4] - Heineken's beer volume in India declined by mid-single digits due to heavy rains, but organic net revenue grew by a mid-single-digit percentage supported by price hikes [7][8] - Coca-Cola and PepsiCo faced disruptions from weather conditions, with Coca-Cola noting competitive pressures in the beverage market that may affect growth [9] - Pernod Ricard's sales in India increased by 3%, but were impacted by excise policy changes in Maharashtra [10][11] - Nestle SA highlighted strong performance and good momentum in India [12]

Group 1: India as a Growth Market - India is recognized as the fastest growing large economy, prompting global corporations to formulate specific plans for the market [1] - The Indian market is largely untapped, characterized as a country of savers rather than investors, presenting opportunities for local investing and retirement products [2] - The beverage alcohol market in India is experiencing rising social acceptance, particularly among younger consumers, contributing to its status as the second-largest whiskey market globally, growing at approximately 8% annually [3] Group 2: Company Perspectives - BlackRock's JioBlackRock venture aims to enhance access to local investment opportunities in India [2] - Brown-Forman views India as a significant long-term growth engine for its Jack Daniel's brand, driven by premiumization and changing social attitudes towards alcohol [2] - Firan Technology Group is establishing a manufacturing facility in Hyderabad, citing India's cost advantages and supportive policies as key factors [3] - Pernod Ricard reported steady growth in India despite challenges from a sharp excise tax increase in Maharashtra, which raised prices and impacted sales [4][5]

Core Insights - Seagram's Royal Stag has appointed four new brand ambassadors from various entertainment sectors to enhance its appeal to younger consumers [1][2] Group 1: Brand Ambassadors - The new ambassadors include actor Sidharth Malhotra, rapper Badshah, actor Naga Chaitanya, and gamer Payal Dhare, joining existing representatives Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav [1] - The selection of ambassadors aims to represent cinema, music, gaming, and cricket, thereby strengthening the brand's connection with diverse cultural areas [2] Group 2: Brand Philosophy - Malhotra stated that the brand embodies "courage to try new things," aligning with his personal philosophy [3] - Badshah highlighted the brand's celebration of individuality, while Chaitanya noted its cultural relevance [3] - Gamer Payal Dhare emphasized the brand's role in breaking barriers and redefining success [3] Group 3: Brand Positioning - Royal Stag positions itself as a brand for "young, daring, confident, progressive" individuals, promoting its "Live It Large" philosophy [4] - The brand consistently markets itself to inspire youth to pursue their passions [4] Group 4: Company Overview - Pernod Ricard India, a fully-owned subsidiary of Pernod Ricard SA, owns Royal Stag and has a diverse portfolio of whiskey brands, including Blenders Pride, Imperial Blue, and 100 Pipers, as well as international premium brands like Chivas Regal and The Glenlivet [5] - Seagram's whiskies are exported to over 28 countries worldwide [5]