UB in talks with Russian vodka firm for tie-up

As part of its overseas foray, the $2 billion spirits major UB group is in talks with Russian premium vodka manufacturer Roust Group for a possible tieup in Russia. Roust Group produces leading premium vodka brand Russian Standard, owned by entrepreneur Rustam Tariko.

Once the tieup is finalised, Russian standard manufacturers will distribute UB group brands in Russia and vice versa.

UB group Chairman Vijay Mallya confirmed that the company was in talks with Russian Standard adding "however nothing has been finalised".

According to industry analysts, foray into traditional markets such as Russia will create alternatives in the premium and high end segment. "This will strengthen the core Indian business and facilitate entry into new segments of liquor", they said.

Mallya said the UB group is in the process of setting up subsidiary in China.

"The subsidiary will in the name of United Spirits only. The group will tap Chinese market after tying up with a local partner there to distribute UB products," sources said.

Meanwhile, the group has started exporting Indian whisky in bulk to African countries for packaging in sachets.

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