Bengaluru is currently experiencing both literal and metaphorical heat. While the scorching temperatures threaten to cause sunburn, the upcoming Karnataka assembly polls are heating up the political climate. However, both these events have resulted in a common outcome.
The high temperatures, combined with the extensive travel in and out of the city due to election campaigns and rallies, have led to a significant surge in the demand for beer in Bengaluru. With temperatures crossing 45 degrees Celsius in several districts and people attending rallies and events in the heat, there is a greater demand for beer to unwind after long and tiring schedules. Consequently, beer sales have shot up in the capital, and bar owners are ecstatic.
During the financial year 2022-23, the excise department recorded the sale of 390.66 lakh boxes of beer, resulting in an additional revenue of INR 800 crore for the exchequer. This represents a 45% increase in beer production in the state compared to the previous year. The relatively low tax on beer in Karnataka, as compared to other states, has contributed to the rise in beer sales in the region.
Despite the surge in demand, there is a shortage of supply to meet the growing demand for beer. The demand for beer worth INR 10 lakh exceeds the available supply, which is only worth INR 2 lakh. As a result of the supply-demand mismatch, the cost of beer has increased, with reports indicating an additional charge of INR 20 per bottle in Bengaluru.
Bengaluru, a thriving metropolis, has earned a reputation for its vibrant pub scene. The city’s bars are committed to providing patrons with an exceptional experience. The UB Group, which is responsible for producing the popular Indian beer brand, “Kingfisher,” was established by liquor magnate Vijay Mallya and is headquartered in Bengaluru. However, over the past decade, Bengaluru has also established itself as India’s brewing capital, thanks to the introduction of microbreweries. In this time, the city has outshone all competition in terms of its love for beer.