Coca-Cola is set to expand its portfolio of billion-dollar brands in India, underscoring the country’s growing role in its global growth strategy. According to Henrique Braun, Executive Vice President and COO of Coca-Cola, India has already produced three billion-dollar brands-Thums Up, Maaza, and Sprite – with more likely to follow.
“India’s vibrance makes it a fertile ground for further growth,” Braun noted, highlighting the market’s potential. Currently, India ranks as Coca-Cola’s fifth-largest market by volume, and while still developing, it offers strategic opportunities for long-term, sustainable expansion.
A key success story is Limca, Coca-Cola’s lemon-lime beverage originally launched in 1971 and acquired through the 1993 Parle deal. In 2024, Limca crossed ₹2,800 crore in revenue. Once a nostalgic brand, Limca has been revitalized by expanded rural outreach, stronger modern trade presence, and a renewed focus on hydration. It’s now seeing double-digit growth in states like Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana.
This resurgence reflects Coca-Cola’s broader strategy to reposition legacy brands to meet evolving consumer demands. The company now owns seven of the top ten beverage brands in India and is focused on continued investment.
Looking ahead, Braun suggested more global brands could enter India, but timing is key. He also acknowledged challenges like India’s high tax burden on carbonated drinks- 28% GST plus 12% cess – but remained diplomatic: “We focus on what we can control.”
Despite fluctuations, Coca-Cola sees strong long-term demand, and India remains central to its future plans.
