DENMARK: Carlsberg invests to strengthen position

By just-drinks.com editorial team | 22 May 2007

Carlsberg is set to invest heavily this year in an effort to strengthen its position in the global beer market, according to local reports.

The Danish brewer was cited in Esmerk yesterday (21 May) as saying that it plans to invest over DKK5bn (US$0.9bn) in new breweries and developing operations. The spend will involve a new brewery in Fredericia, Denmark, annual investments in Russian Baltica Beverages Holding (BBH), and a development of Asian operations.

The brewer also said it will invest in China over the next three years and plans to develop its distribution network in other mature markets such as Europe.

The group is reportedly also looking to launch its Jacobsen beer brand in the Nordic countries, the UK and the US.

Last week, Carlsberg gained approval from the Danish authorities to change its charter. The brewer will be able to raise up to $8.23bn by reducing the stake held by the Carlsberg Foundation. The body will retain majority control of the voting rights, however.

Sectors: Beer & cider

Companies: Carlsberg, BBH