New Delhi :   Molson Coors Cobra today introduced the iconic British Lager Brand – Carling in the Indian market. Carling with its rich legacy dating more than 170 years is the #1 Lager brand in the UK market. The Acting British High Commissioner to India, Julian Evans launched the brand at a ceremony in Delhi.

 First brewed in the 1840s, Carling is a lager of caramel colour with pleasant hops aroma. The quality ingredients are selected through a meticulous process and the use of special barley gives it a sweet flavour and a strong malt taste. The result is a soft and refreshing pint which has made it the # 1 beer in Britain for the last 30 years.

Molson Coors Cobra, the Joint Venture between Molson Coors International and Cobra Beer Indian Pvt. Limited, are introducing Carling as part of their plan to expand their brand portfolio and geographical footprint in the country.

On the occasion, Mr. Kandy Anand, President of Molson Coors International said, “As one of the largest beer markets in Asia, India presents an excellent opportunity for us to expand our global footprint. Our joint venture with Cobra India has seen the successful growth of our existing brands in the market and we are confident in the opportunity Carling presents as a premium lager in this growing market.”

India is one of the largest beer markets in the Asia-Pacific region by volume. In 2013, Indians consumed more than 20 million hectolitres of beer.  The Premium Beer category is among the fastest growing category in the country growing by more than 49% in 2012-13. Molson Coors Cobra aims to tap this enormous potential with the Carling brand, together with its other brands, King Cobra and Iceberg 9000.

Lord Karan Bilimoria, Chairman Molson Coors Cobra added, “Molson Coors Cobra has had a long and successful connection with the United Kingdom. Our Cobra beer brand is a household name in the UK and is the #1 Indian beer brand there. And now with the launch of Carling, we are able to present UK’s #1 beer to Indian consumers.”

Ravi Kaza, President of Molson Coors Cobra added, “We are pleased to bring Carling to India. Indian consumers are opening up to international lager brands and we look forward introducing this iconic British brand to Indian beer drinkers.”

Carling will be available in 300ml bottles for the Indian market.