Scotch Malt Whisky Society enters India

The Artisanal Spirits Company, owner of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS), has signed a franchise agreement with PNM Tech Beverages to introduce its exclusive whisky club to India, according to reports. Subject to label registrations being cleared, the company is expected to ship its first products into the country in the coming months.

India marks the latest step in the group’s expansion across Asia, following recent launches in Korea and Taiwan, and existing operations in China and Japan. As the world’s largest Scotch whisky market by volume, India is seen as a significant growth opportunity for SMWS.

Andrew Dane, Chief Executive of the Artisanal Spirits Company, said the India entry represents “exciting potential” for the brand. “We are building the Scotch Malt Whisky Society for the medium to longer term, growing our presence with entry into new markets such as India. We are delighted to welcome PNM Tech Beverages into the SMWS family,” he noted.

The launch comes as the UK–India free trade agreement is expected to boost Scotch exports, adding further momentum to SMWS’s entry into this market.