Industrialist Raj B. Shah acquires 15% stake in Gorkha Brewery at premium rate

Industrialist Raj Bahadur Shah has acquired a 15 percent stake in Gorkha Brewery, marking the entry of a major domestic business group into a company previously fully controlled by global brewing giant Carlsberg Group. It is noted as a significant development in brewery industry in Nepal.

A high-level sources mention that Shah of the Jawalakhel Group of Industries has reached an agreement with existing shareholders to purchase the stake at a premium valuation. While the exact premium price remains undisclosed, the deal indicates strong investor confidence in the long-term profitability and brand strength of Gorkha Brewery. Gorkha Brewery currently has an estimated paid-up capital of around Rs 1.30 billion, placing the value of the 15 percent stake in a substantial range, especially with the premium component factored in. The transaction effectively reintroduces Nepali ownership into the company, which had become entirely foreign-owned sometime back. It is noted that the entry of Shah’s group is strategically significant, as it brings together a globally recognized beer manufacturer and one of Nepal’s most established domestic liquor producers. Moreover, Gorkha Brewery is already a strong brand, and Jawalakhel Group has deep roots in Nepal’s alcoholic beverage market. This partnership can create operational and distribution synergies.

Gorkha Brewery is best known for producing internationally recognized beer brands such as Carlsberg and Tuborg, both of which dominate Nepal’s premium beer segment.

On the other hand, Jawalakhel Group operates a wide portfolio of alcoholic beverages, including whisky and vodka, with more than 21 brands currently in production. The group has built a strong domestic distribution network and brand presence over decades.