Asahi Group Holdings has entered into a franchise agreement with Varun Beverages Limited to introduce its iconic CALPIS brand in India, marking the Japanese company's entry into the country's non-alcoholic, non-carbonated beverage market.

Under the partnership, CALPIS ready-to-drink dairy-based beverages are expected to be launched in India in the second half of 2026 or later. The initial product lineup will include two flavors—Original and Mango.

Asahi Group will oversee product development, technical support, marketing, and brand management through its local subsidiary, while Varun Beverages will handle manufacturing, distribution, and sales across India.

CALPIS, a fermented milk-based beverage known for its sweet and tangy taste, has been a popular brand in Japan for more than a century. The company sees India as a key growth market, supported by its large population, expanding middle class, and increasing consumer focus on health and wellness.

For Varun Beverages, one of the largest PepsiCo franchisees globally, the partnership adds a differentiated product category with significant long-term growth potential. The company plans to leverage its extensive manufacturing footprint and nationwide distribution network to establish CALPIS as a leading beverage brand in India.

The alliance is expected to combine Asahi's global beverage expertise with Varun Beverages' strong execution capabilities, creating new opportunities in India's rapidly growing beverage market.