Poland-headquartered Hexagon Spirits takes another step into the Indian market with its Kerala-inspired Malayali beer range which is now available at duty-free outlets in Cochin International Airport.

The Polish start up, Hexagon Spirits International, is set to launch its flagship brew, Malayali Beer, in Kerala, India, beginning with the duty-free outlets at Cochin International Airport. The move marks the brand’s 18th national market entry globally and is part of an aggressive global rollout targeting India and the Indian diaspora in the Middle East.

Founded in Poland in 2022 by Chandramohan Nalloor and Sargeev Sukumaran, both natives from Palakkad, a city in Kerala, Hexagon Spirits turned its hand to craft brewing after the currency shock precipitated by the Russia–Ukraine war left them stranded with rice flake inventory no longer fit for its original purpose. By using the Indian rice flakes, combined with European hops, the business produced a lager that quickly grew into a celebrated international brand, moving about 50,000 bottles within months of its launch.

The name “Malayali” pays tribute to the many Keralites involved in India’s Operation Ganga evacuation effort in Ukraine in 2022. The brew is designed to resonate with the taste of the global Keralite diaspora, bringing with it an emotional connection beyond mere branding.

The beer currently comes in three variants: a smooth lager; Premium Light at 4.8% ABV; and Power at 7.2% ABV. The company also produces a zero alcohol malt drink known as Malayali Habibi.

With nine production facilities across Europe, Hexagon Spirits is targeting EUR3.3 million (USD3.88 million) in turnover in 2025 and aims to be present in 100 countries within the next decade.

The Kerala launch forms a strategic move into the Indian market, following successful distribution across other parts of India, the Middle East, Europe, and Singapore.