In a significant development in the ongoing trademark dispute between Allied Blenders & Distillers and John Distilleries Private Limited, the Supreme Court has directed both parties to resolve their differences through mediation. The case, which centers around the trademarks 'Officers Choice' and 'Original Choice', will be mediated by former Supreme Court Justice L. Nageswara Rao.

Background of the Dispute

The conflict arose from cross petitions filed by both companies seeking cancellation of each other's trademarks. Allied Blenders & Distillers, the maker of 'Officers Choice', and John Distilleries, which produces 'Original Choice', have been at loggerheads over the similarity of their brand names in the liquor industry.

Recent Developments

Madras High Court Ruling

On November 7, 2025, the Madras High Court ruled in favor of Allied Blenders & Distillers. The court allowed Allied Blenders & Distillers' petition for cancellation of John Distilleries' 'Original Choice' trademark while dismissing John Distilleries' petition against the 'Officers Choice' trademark.

Supreme Court Intervention

Following the High Court's decision, John Distilleries filed a Special Leave Petition in the Supreme Court. On November 17, 2025, the Supreme Court suggested mediation as a route to resolve the dispute amicably.

Key Points of the Supreme Court Order

• Mediator Appointment: Former Supreme Court Justice L. Nageswara Rao has been appointed as the mediator.
• Urgency Emphasized: The Court has requested the mediation process to be conducted on a priority basis.
• Next Hearing: The case is scheduled for review on December 8, 2025.

Implications for the Companies

This mediation presents an opportunity for both Allied Blenders & Distillers and John Distilleries to reach a mutually agreeable solution outside the courtroom. The outcome of this mediation could have significant implications for both companies' branding and market presence in the highly competitive liquor industry.

Market Response

As per the latest LODR (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) data, Allied Blenders & Distillers promptly informed the stock exchanges about this development on November 19, 2025. This transparency in disclosure highlights the significance of the case for the company's stakeholders.

The resolution of this trademark dispute will be closely watched by the industry, as it could set a precedent for similar cases in the future. Both companies now have the opportunity to protect their brand interests while potentially avoiding a prolonged legal battle.

Allied Blenders & Distillers (ABD) is set to shake up the spirits market with an ambitious growth strategy focusing on premiumization and international expansion. The company has unveiled plans that promise to boost its market presence and financial performance in the coming months.

New Luxury Brands on the Horizon

ABD is poised to introduce three new luxury brands in the second half of the fiscal year, signaling a strong push towards the premium segment of the spirits market. This move aligns with the company's overarching premiumization strategy, aimed at capturing a larger share of the high-end spirits market.

Projected Growth and Financial Performance

The company's outlook for the near future is optimistic, with expectations set high:

These projections are underpinned by ABD's focus on premium offerings, which typically command higher margins and contribute to stronger value growth.

Recent Financial Success

ABD's strategic initiatives appear to be already bearing fruit. In the September quarter, the company reported a significant boost to its bottom line:

This substantial increase in net profit underscores the effectiveness of ABD's business strategies and sets a positive tone for future performance.

Global Expansion Plans

Allied Blenders is not just focusing on domestic growth but is also setting its sights on international markets:

• Current Expansion: ABD plans to extend its reach to 35 countries by the end of the fiscal year.
• Market Presence: This expansion will significantly broaden the company's global footprint.

Innovation in Whisky Production

In a move that could potentially reshape India's position in the global whisky market, ABD is making a significant investment:

• Project: India's first single malt distillery
• Expected Production: By 2029

This long-term project demonstrates ABD's commitment to innovation and its ambition to compete in the premium single malt category, traditionally dominated by Scottish and Japanese distilleries.

Allied Blenders & Distillers' multi-pronged approach, combining new luxury brand launches, international expansion, and investment in premium whisky production, positions the company for potential strong growth in both domestic and international markets. As the company executes these strategies, industry observers will be keenly watching to see how these initiatives translate into market share and financial performance in the competitive spirits industry.