Malay Kumar Rout

Malay Kumar Rout is a wine, spirits and hospitality industry professional with over two decades of experience across alcoholic beverages, brand development, market expansion, Global Travel Retail (GTR), media and strategic industry partnerships.

His professional journey began with the National Cadet Corps (NCC), where he earned the prestigious “C” Certificate and represented Odisha at the Republic Day Contingent Camp in 1997, an experience that shaped his foundation in discipline, leadership and perseverance. He subsequently completed his MBA in Finance (1999–2001) and began his corporate career across the FMCG and garment sectors.

In 2005, Malay entered the alcoholic beverage industry, working with one of India’s leading alcohol import and distribution companies. Over the years, he played an active role in introducing and developing premium international beverage brands in India, building expertise across brand positioning, portfolio development, market expansion and distribution. He later held a leadership role with an Indian wine company, driving brand growth and distribution across North, East and Northeast India, further strengthening his understanding of India’s evolving wine market. His experience also extends extensively into Global Travel Retail, with exposure to airport and duty-free markets across India and international destinations.

In 2016, Malay founded WSCI - Wine & Spirits Club of India, with a vision to create platforms that connect the industry, professionals, brands and consumers. What began as a niche Facebook community has evolved into a broader industry ecosystem encompassing community engagement, media, content, consulting and international trade initiatives. Under this ecosystem, 0 KM Magazine has emerged as an international wine, spirits and hospitality publication, reaching 35 countries with a readership exceeding 105,000 through its digital and print editions. The platform focuses on industry knowledge, consumer awareness, emerging trends, brand stories and meaningful conversations across the beverage and hospitality landscape.

Malay has also built strong associations with leading international trade platforms. Since 2022, WSCI has been associated with ProWine Mumbai as Community Outreach Partner and Brews & Spirits Expo, while its international engagement includes ProWein Dusseldorf - Germany, Vinexpo Wine Paris, Vinitaly Verona - Italy, TFWA World Exhibition & Conference in Cannes and Singapore, Vinexpo Asia, Bar Convent Berlin, Wine Paris and HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair.

With WSET certification, extensive Indian market knowledge and industry experience, Malay has also served as a jury member at prestigious domestic and international wine competitions, contributing his perspective alongside professionals and experts from across the global beverage industry.

Today, through WSCI, WSCI Studio, WSCI Pavilion, 0 KM Magazine and Solutions By InAct, Malay continues to work across brand representation, strategic consulting, media, market development, Global Travel Retail and international industry partnerships, with a focus on connecting India with the global wine and spirits ecosystem.

Building connections. Creating platforms. Shaping conversations.

Cheers!