Barneys Hard Seltzer Secures Funding from The Chennai Angels in Pre-Series A Round

The funds will be utilized towards working capital, marketing, team expansion, licensing, and statutory obligations as the company scales its presence across key markets.

Barneys is building India’s Ready-to-Drink (RTD) beverage segment with a focus on zero-sugar, low-calorie options tailored for a new generation of consumers seeking healthier and innovative alternatives. India, one of the largest consumer markets globally, presents a significant opportunity with a young and evolving audience driving demand for modern, functional products.

Founded by Ruchi Gupta and Gaurav Sharma, Barneys Hard Seltzer aims to expand its footprint across India while continuing to lead the adoption of the RTD wellness segment in the country.

The company has positioned itself as an early mover in this segment in India, offering premium yet accessible products with unique flavour combinations. Over the years, Barneys has emerged as a leading player, reflecting strong consumer acceptance and market validation.

Commenting on the fundraise, Ruchi Gupta, Founder & CEO of Barneys Hard Seltzer, said:
“We truly value The Chennai Angels’ belief in maintaining a traditional, in-person approach to investing—it reflects the importance of building real conviction through meaningful interaction. We strongly believe that face-to-face conversations create deeper alignment and trust, which often translates into long-term partnerships. We are deeply grateful for your confidence in our journey and for backing Barneys Hard Seltzer. We are committed to building something exceptional and making this a truly rewarding investment for you.”

Vikas Chawla, Investment Director from The Chennai Angels said:
“We are excited to partner with Barneys Hard Seltzer and look forward to supporting their growth journey. At TCA, we look for founders and startups that are redefining consumer habits, and Barneys Hard Seltzer is sitting at the intersection of health-consciousness and premiumization, tailwinds shaping India's wellness and lifestyle landscape. The team's understanding of the evolving consumer, combined with a product that delivers on both taste and quality, gives us confidence in their ability to build this category.”

About Barneys Hard Seltzer: Barneys Hard Seltzer is India’s pioneering wellness beverage brand, offering zero-sugar, low-calorie drinks with unique global-meets-Indian flavour profiles. Focused on building the Ready-to-Drink (RTD) segment in India, the company aims to provide a premium yet accessible alternative for modern, health-conscious consumers.

About The Chennai Angels: The Chennai Angels (TCA) is one of India's most active angel investing groups. Founded in 2007, it comprises successful entrepreneurs and business leaders with a track record of building and scaling large enterprises. Over the years, TCA has invested over INR 135 crore across 80+ start-ups in India.