United Spirits, India’s largest liquor company, is reportedly planning to reduce its workforce by around 100 employees as part of a wider global cost-cutting initiative undertaken by its parent company, Diageo. The move is aimed at improving operational efficiency and productivity while supporting the company’s long-term growth strategy.
According to reports, the proposed layoffs are likely to impact employees across multiple departments, with a greater focus on mid-level and senior management positions. Sources familiar with the matter indicated that the final number could increase, as an ongoing review may eventually affect up to 200 additional roles. However, no final decision has been taken regarding further reductions.
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The planned cuts would represent one of the largest workforce restructuring exercises at United Spirits since Diageo acquired control of the company more than a decade ago. Despite the job reductions, India remains one of Diageo’s most important and fastest-growing markets globally, and the company is expected to continue investing in key brands and growth opportunities.
A spokesperson for United Spirits declined to comment on the reported layoffs.
The proposed workforce reduction would affect only a small portion of the company’s total employee base of approximately 2,400 people. United Spirits continues to dominate India’s premium spirits market through popular brands such as Johnnie Walker, Black Dog and Antiquity. Products in the prestige-and-above segment accounted for more than 90 per cent of the company’s net sales in the latest quarter.
The restructuring comes despite a strong financial performance in FY26, during which United Spirits reported a 7.6 per cent rise in net sales value and an 11.6 per cent increase in EBITDA.
Earlier this month, the company announced the closure of its Hyderabad manufacturing facility as part of its supply chain transformation programme. The latest layoffs suggest Diageo remains focused on streamlining operations while continuing to strengthen its premium liquor business in India.
