Kingfisher is a well-known brand in India. It is popular for its beer and was once famous for its airline, Kingfisher Airlines. But many people are confused about who really owns the Kingfisher brand today. In this article, we will explain everything about the ownership of Kingfisher:-
Ownership Details of Kingfisher
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Kingfisher |
| Current Owner of Beer Brand | United Breweries Limited (UBL) |
| Parent Company (Majority) | Heineken N.V. (Dutch company) |
| Country of Origin | India |
| Former Owner (Airline) | Vijay Mallya |
| Year Heineken Took Control | 2021 |
What is Kingfisher?
Kingfisher is a famous brand name used mainly for beer in India. It is known for its light, refreshing taste and is one of the most sold beers in the country, like United Spirits. Kingfisher was also used as the name for Kingfisher Airlines, which is now closed.
Who Owns Kingfisher Beer Now?
The Kingfisher beer brand is owned by United Breweries Limited (UBL). UBL is a big company that makes and sells beer. The majority owner of UBL is a Dutch company called Heineken N.V.
Heineken now controls over 61% of United Breweries. This means Heineken is the main company behind the Kingfisher beer brand today.
Who is Heineken?
Heineken N.V. is one of the world’s largest beer companies. It is based in the Netherlands and sells beer in many countries. Heineken owns many famous beer brands like:
- Heineken
- Amstel
- Tiger
- Sol
- Kingfisher (in India, through UBL)
Heineken became the main owner of United Breweries in 2021, after buying more shares from other investors.
Who Was the Former Owner of Kingfisher?
The Kingfisher brand was earlier owned and promoted by Vijay Mallya, an Indian businessman. He was the chairman of United Breweries Group, which controlled both Kingfisher Beer and Kingfisher Airlines.
Vijay Mallya was once called the “King of Good Times” because of his rich lifestyle and advertising style. He made Kingfisher a household name in India.
What Happened to Vijay Mallya?
Vijay Mallya ran into serious financial trouble. His airline, Kingfisher Airlines, lost a lot of money and closed in 2012. He also failed to repay loans taken from Indian banks.
Due to this, the Indian government declared him a fugitive economic offender. He left India in 2016 and has been living in the United Kingdom since then. He has been fighting legal cases and has no more control over the Kingfisher brand.
How Did Heineken Take Control?
Heineken had been a shareholder in United Breweries for many years. But after Vijay Mallya’s problems, Heineken slowly bought more shares. In July 2021, Heineken became the majority owner by owning more than 61% of UBL.
Since then, Heineken runs the company and controls the production and marketing of Kingfisher beer in India.
Is Kingfisher Beer Still Popular?
Yes, Kingfisher beer is still very popular in India. It is available in many types, like:
- Kingfisher Premium
- Kingfisher Strong
- Kingfisher Ultra
It is also sold in other countries. Even though Vijay Mallya is no longer involved, the brand has stayed strong under Heineken’s management.
What About Kingfisher Airlines?
Kingfisher Airlines was started by Vijay Mallya in 2005. It was known for luxury and good service. But the airline could not make a profit and closed in 2012.
The airline had no connection with Heineken and was never a part of the beer business. It is now completely shut down and does not operate anymore.
Final Thoughts
Today, the Kingfisher beer brand is owned by Heineken, a Dutch company. It owns United Breweries, which makes Kingfisher beer. Vijay Mallya, who once made the brand famous, is no longer part of the company. The airline he started is also closed. But the beer brand continues to be strong and popular in India and abroad.
FAQs
Q1: Who owns Kingfisher beer now?
A: Heineken, through United Breweries Limited, owns the Kingfisher beer brand.
Q2: Was Vijay Mallya the owner of Kingfisher?
A: Yes, Vijay Mallya owned Kingfisher beer and Kingfisher Airlines earlier. But now, he no longer owns it.
Q3: Is Kingfisher Airlines still running?
A: No, Kingfisher Airlines shut down in 2012.
Q4: When did Heineken take over Kingfisher beer?
A: Heineken became the majority owner of United Breweries in 2021.
Q5: Is Kingfisher beer still popular?
A: Yes, Kingfisher beer is still one of the most popular beers in India.
Q6: What is United Breweries Limited?
A: It is the company that makes and sells Kingfisher beer. It is now owned by Heineken.
United Breweries Limited (UBL) Official Website
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