AUS/NZ: Lion Nathan chooses site for Auckland brewery

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

Lion Nathan has chosen a site in East Tamaki for its new Auckland brewery, according to local reports.

The New Zealand Press said yesterday (21 November) that the trans-Tasman company, which Japan's Kirin Holdings has a 46.1% stake, has picked a location for its A$250m (US$219m) facility subject to approval by the Overseas Investment Office.

The company reportedly said that the facility is expected to be open within four years.

Yesterday, Lion Nathan posted that operating profit in the year to the end of September climbed by 3.8% year-on-year, coming in at A$267.2m (US$233.2m). The rise came on the back of increased sales in the year, up 6.6% on FY 2006 to A$1.97bn.

Net profit, including one-offs, increased by 24% to A$282.1m, aided in part by the sale of the company's previous Auckland brewery site in the period. Lion Nathan credited the sales rise to increased brand investment and new product development, coupled with greater focus on national and premium brands.

Sectors: Beer & cider

Companies: Lion Nathan, Kirin