DeVANS Modern Breweries Names Vikas Bhatia COO to Drive Commercial Growth

DeVANS Modern Breweries Limited has appointed Vikas Bhatia as Chief Operating Officer (COO), bringing more than 30 years of experience in sales, marketing, commercial management and market expansion to the beverage company. Bhatia has held leadership roles at organisations including Red Bull, SABMiller, Diageo, Radico and Kraft Heinz. In his new role, he will focus on commercial execution, operational performance and developing new markets.

Founded in 1961, DeVANS has expanded from liquor bottling into a business spanning beer and premium spirits. Under Chairman and Managing Director Prem Dewan, the company has grown its manufacturing footprint from one unit to four.

Prem Dewan, Chairman and Managing Director, DeVANS Modern Breweries Limited, said, “DeVANS has a legacy spanning more than six decades, and our ambition is to build on that foundation as we take the company into its next phase of growth. Vikas brings extensive experience across leading beverage and FMCG businesses, along with a strong understanding of commercial development and market expansion. We look forward to working with him to strengthen our capabilities, develop our business and to further strengthen DeVANS into one of the premier beverage companies in India.”

Bhatia said, “I am delighted to join DeVANS at an important stage in its journey. The company's legacy, evolving portfolio and ambition to build stronger brands present an exciting opportunity. I look forward to working with the team to strengthen commercial execution, explore new market opportunities and create a platform for sustainable, long-term growth.”

The company’s portfolio includes Six Fields beers, available in Brute, Cult, Blanche and Pilsner variants; Godfather beer; GianChand Indian single malt whisky; and Gingalalahu gin. DeVANS said Six Fields Brute won Gold and was named Country Winner at the World Beer Awards in the UK, while Six Fields and GianChand have also received international recognition.

DeVANS is also using brand campaigns and consumer engagement to support its portfolio. Its #CheersForMore campaign for Six Fields, featuring international cricket umpire Anil Chaudhary, draws on cricket-related social occasions to connect with consumers.

Bhatia’s appointment comes as the company seeks to build on its manufacturing capacity and multi-category portfolio, with a focus on strengthening commercial operations and expanding its market presence.