ICONiQ Whisky: The Million-Case Milestone

ICONiQ Whisky: The Million-Case Milestone

By Author

Published on October 19, 2023

In a remarkable achievement, ICONiQ Whisky, introduced by Allied Blenders and Distillers (ABD), has rocketed to one million cases in September 2023, just a year after its launch in September 2022. This accomplishment is particularly noteworthy as ICONiQ Whisky is currently available exclusively in the North and East Indian states. In recent weeks, major states in these regions, such as Maharashtra and Telangana, have joined this incredible journey by introducing the whisky to their markets.

The rollout of ICONiQ Whisky was meticulously planned, with a staggered introduction state by state in most parts of North and East India commencing in September 2022. ICONiQ Whisky's unique blend, combining imported Scotch malts aged in bourbon oak casks with matured malts and Indian grain spirits, has resonated strongly with consumers in the regions where it has been introduced. This achievement of reaching one million cases is a significant step towards ABD's strategic transition to a higher value portfolio, particularly in the prestige and above segments.

Bikram Basu, Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at ABD, expressed confidence in this milestone, stating, “Right at the time of the ICONiQ launch we went on record to say that ‘we are here with something very special, and here to win.’ I am confident that this is the start of many good things to come.”

Within just five years, ABD India has accomplished two major successes with millionaire brands in key and competitive segments of the industry. The first was Sterling Reserve Whisky, which reached five million cases in 2022, and now ICONiQ Whisky has achieved a million cases. This accomplishment is in line with the global success of ABD's Officer’s Choice franchise, which consistently ranks among the top three whiskies in terms of volume in 2022. ABD now boasts a portfolio with four million-plus case selling brands, each comprising 9 liters per case.

It's important to note that Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited is considering an initial public offering of its equity shares, subject to approvals, market conditions, and other considerations. A draft red herring prospectus, dated June 27, 2022, has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). For further information, you can visit SEBI's website or the websites of the Book Running Lead Managers, including ICICI Securities Limited, Axis Capital Limited, Equirus Capital Private Limited, JM Financial Limited, and Kotak Mahindra Capital Company Limited. Please be aware that the Equity Shares have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and will not be offered or sold within the United States, except under specific exemptions. The offering of Equity Shares is conducted outside the United States in accordance with Regulation S and the relevant laws of each jurisdiction.

The success of ICONiQ Whisky is a testament to ABD's dedication and commitment to providing high-quality products to consumers, and it paves the way for exciting developments in the future.


ButterBrews Opens New Café in Aundh with Coffee-First Experience

ButterBrews Opens New Café in Aundh with Coffee-First Experience

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 7, 2026

ButterBrews has opened its new outlet in Aundh, marking its largest format café so far. The new space has been designed as an everyday destination, bringing together a comfortable layout, a strong all-day menu, and a clear focus on coffee.

The café has been planned with multiple zones to suit different preferences. It includes an indoor seating area, a non-smoking outdoor section with an amphitheatre-style setup, and a separate smoking zone placed away from the main space to ensure a smooth and relaxed experience for all guests.

The menu offers a premium all-day selection built around fresh ingredients. Guests can choose from breakfast options, healthy bowls, wholesome meals, and vegan dishes, making it suitable for different tastes and dining needs throughout the day.

Coffee continues to be at the heart of the ButterBrews experience. The café uses 100 percent Arabica beans and serves both house blends and manually brewed coffees. It also features guest roasters like Tulum Coffee Roasters and Ground Zero Coffee Roasters, adding variety to its coffee offerings.

Desserts and baked items are prepared in-house at ButterBrews’ bakehouse. Popular choices include the Basque cheesecake and cinnamon rolls, which have already become favourites among guests.

Commenting on the opening, Harsh Agarwal, Co-founder, ButterBrews, said, “ButterBrews, Aundh is our largest format cafe yet. We have built a stronger indoor experience and created clear zones across the cafe so guests can settle in the way they like. We want this to be an address people can count on through the week.”

Umang Bhimrajka, Co-founder, ButterBrews, added, “For us, coffee has always been non-negotiable. With 100 percent Arabica beans, house espresso coffees and manual brews that rotate speciality roasters, we are bringing a program that balances familiarity with discovery. Alongside that, the all-day menu and our bakehouse desserts complete the experience we want to offer Aundh.”


McDonald’s India Brings Back Limited-Edition Sipper with App-Exclusive Meals

McDonald’s India Brings Back Limited-Edition Sipper with App-Exclusive Meals

By Hariharan U

Published on April 7, 2026

McDonald's India – North and East has reintroduced its popular limited-edition Sipper, bringing back the fan-favourite collectible as part of its app-exclusive Super Sipper Meals. The offering follows strong customer demand earlier this year and is available for a limited time across select regions.

Accessible exclusively through the McDonald's App, the Super Sipper Meals can be ordered between 4 PM and 7 PM, adding an element of exclusivity and urgency for customers looking to grab the collectible while stocks last.

The meals are offered in two variants, catering to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences. The Veg option, includes a McAloo Tikki Burger, Medium Fries, Small Coke, and Pizza McPuff. The Non-Veg variant, features a McGrill Burger along with Medium Fries, Small Coke, and Pizza McPuff.

Commenting on the reintroduction, Rajeev Ranjan said the overwhelming response to the earlier launch highlighted customers’ interest in unique and engaging experiences. He added that the brand remains focused on delivering offerings that combine value, taste, and memorable moments.

Operated by Connaught Plaza Restaurants Pvt. Ltd., McDonald’s India – North and East continues to strengthen its presence with over 295 restaurants and 190+ McCafé outlets across the region. The brand’s latest offering reflects its ongoing effort to create experience-led promotions that go beyond traditional value meals.

By combining everyday favourites with collectible merchandise, the reintroduced Sipper campaign aims to enhance customer engagement while driving digital adoption through its app ecosystem.


Ambience Mall Gurugram Welcomes CoCo Ichibanya to Its Dining Line-Up

Ambience Mall Gurugram Welcomes CoCo Ichibanya to Its Dining Line-Up

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 7, 2026

CoCo Ichibanya has opened its new outlet at Ambience Mall Gurugram, adding a global flavour to the mall’s growing food and beverage offerings. Located on the third floor, the restaurant spans around 3,000 sq. ft. and can accommodate up to 52 guests.

Founded in 1978 in Japan, CoCo Ichibanya is known as one of the world’s largest Japanese curry chains. The brand is popular for its curry-and-rice dishes, offering a mix of consistency and customisation, allowing diners to personalise their meals based on taste and preference.

The launch is part of Ambience Mall Gurugram’s ongoing effort to strengthen its dining portfolio by bringing in well-known international brands. With this addition, the mall continues to expand its options, offering both everyday dining choices and unique global experiences to visitors.

Speaking on the occasion, Arjun Gehlot, Director, Ambience Group, said, “Consumer preferences today are evolving towards experiences that feel both authentic and globally relevant. CoCo Ichibanya brings a strong international identity along with an offering that is approachable and versatile. At Ambience Mall, our focus remains on curating a balanced and contemporary mix, and this addition further strengthens that direction.”

With the opening of CoCo Ichibanya, Ambience Mall Gurugram further builds its position as a destination that blends retail with curated dining and lifestyle experiences, catering to a modern and globally aware audience.

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