India's United Breweries says wants to keep Taittinger jobs

India's biggest distiller, the United Breweries Group, said it hoped to retain the management, jobs and suppliers of the French champagne group Taittinger if its acquisition is successful.

In a statement late Friday to "clarify" its intentions, United Breweries chief Vijay Mallya said it "wishes to maintain the management and perpetuate the jobs and suppliers of the brand."

United Breweries -- the world's third-largest spirits producer, with 60 percent of the Indian market -- earlier this week offered an estimated nearly 30 billion rupees (660 million dollars) to acquire Taittinger.

"In the same way, we will maintain all the activities (of Taittinger), in particular those concerning the Champagne region" of France, Mallya added in his statement.

"If our bid is retained, we will rely on Taittinger's current management teams, and we want them to continue to lead the brand and play a primary role in the company's development strategy."

The Bangalore-based group, which also has interests in construction and an airline named after its leading beer brand, Kingfisher, is one of six bidders shortlisted for the Taittinger buyout.

Taittinger, which was acquired by US group Starwood Capital last July, is not expected to announce the winning bid for two or three weeks.

Mallya also promised to respect the Champagne mark.

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