Cheers from Heineken: Netherlands-based brewer picks Hyderabad for Asia-Pacific’s first GCC; to invest Rs 2,500-3,000 crore, hire up to 3,000 techies

HYDERABAD: Netherlands-based brewer Heineken NV is the latest to join the list of global giants to say cheers to Hyderabad. One of the world's largest beer makers, Heineken plans to invest Rs 2,500 crore to Rs 3,000 crore over the next few years in setting up its first GCC in the Asia Pacific region in Hyderabad.The Euro 36 billion Dutch giant is all set to establish its GCC, Heineken Business Services India, in Hyderabad by the end of 2025 with plans to hire around 2,500-3,000 techies over the next five years, sources aware of the development told TOI. The Hyderabad GCC will focus on technology development, including emerging technologies such as AI, and shared business services such as finance and HR, sources said.Confirming the investment figures, Heineken told TOI that it is scouting for space in Hyderabad and will be hiring for the "usual GCC roles"."Heineken Business Services India is an addition to our existing global network of connected hubs that will provide essential services and capabilities to operating companies within Heineken," the company had said in a brief global announcement recently."The business services network plays an important part in Heineken's Evergreen strategy. The expansion showcases Heineken's continued investment in the optimal organisation to support long-term sustainable growth and maintain competitiveness," the announcement said. GCC likely to come up at Hitec City The GCC is expected to come up in Hyderabad's IT Hub of Hitec City, real estate sources said. Most of the premium office space in Hitech City are all sold out but the company could be looking at a couple of projects that might still have some room to house the GCC. The decision to set up the GCC comes even as Heineken, which owns over 61.5% stake in United Breweries, already manufactures the Heineken brand through UBL breweries in the country.