RMI Analytics lives and breaths the brewing industry across all the related elements within the supply chain, this is why we have prepared for you this section to keep our readers up to date with latest industry news. Follow us on social media channels to remain current, up-to-date, and to STAY INFORMED!!
23/07/2021
Australia’s wine industry may be following the grain industry footsteps by challenging China’s wine tariffs with the World Trade Organization, according to the Trade Ministry. As the Australian government prepares the final stages of its legal case, the Australian Trade Minister expects it is highly likely that the federal government will take the case to the WTO for an independent verdict.
Science continues to contribute new ways to combat the impact of climate change impact.23/07/2021
An international team of researchers have identified a novel mechanism in barley plants that help growers achieve high yields as temperatures increase. The study was led by professor Dabing Zhang from the University of Adelaide’s Waite Research Institute and Shanghai Jiao Tong University’s Joint Lab for Plant Science and Breeding. In the study, the team identified a novel mechanism by which a specific barley protein regulates the numbers of flowers generated on each spike. Using a highly efficient genome editing technique, the researchers were able to generate new plants bearing more flowers at high temperatures.
Turkey and Tunisia continue their various grain purchases, including barley, with port of Rouen showing more barley than wheat shipments15/07/2021
The Turkey state grain board, TMO, initiated recent international grain tenders: buying 400k tons feed barley for shipment between July 29th and August 16th. Prices continue to be strong due to high commodity values and freight rate strength, but demand remains present, nonetheless.
Barley variety development08/07/2021
Craft brewers are looking for barley varieties that bring deeper malt characteristics in beer, including a greater contribution to flavour. The malting industry is working with breeders that are further working with farmers and universities to lay the foundation for change. Under this initiative, breeders are targeting new barley varieties specifically for independent brewers, with Canadian examples like CDC Copeland and CDC Bow illustrating this focus. Another approach that the industry is following is the one of malting companies, Proximity Malt, in identifying areas within America that are currently underutilized for barley production and with a potential to be brought back for craft brewers. The malting company worked with heirloom European varieties, abandoned by big American brewers, to get them in the hands of farmers. The company is now producing malt from the Genie variety in Colorado and Violetta in Delaware.
Scoular names upcoming barley protein concentrate ingredient01/07/2021
Scoular (grain handler and processor with operations in North America and Asia) has given an official name to its upcoming barley protein concentrate ingredient – Emerge. According to the company, ‘Emerge’ will serve as a sustainable, traceable and non-GMO protein alternative for pet food and aquaculture manufacturers and the only barley-based protein for feed customers.
WTO makes ruling01/07/2021
The WTO has agreed to establish a dispute settlement panel aimed at resolving the anti-dumping and countervailing duties imposed by China on Australian barley. The decision was taken following a formal request from Australia seeking resolution of the punitive tariff which poses severe economic impacts on Australian farmers. China has announced it will follow the WTO process while several other countries have formally registered to participate in the formal proceedings.
Vietnam shows interest into Australian barley01/07/2021
Vietnamese grain customers are showing interest in clean, green and nutritious
Australian barley for animal feed rations. To accommodate this interest, the Australian
Export Grains Innovation Centre hosted two separate technical webinars for Vietnam’s
feed industry, focusing on swine and dairy opportunities.
01/07/2021
Turkey’s state grain board, TMO, initiated several international grain tenders with one
focused on a feed barley intention to buy 320,000 tons, for shipment July 2 nd and July
18 th .
17/06/2021
Japan bought 100,000MT feed barley and 80,000MT feed wheat via a simultaneous
auction, with all quantities to be loaded from multiple origins by September 30 th and
arrive in Japan by November 25 th . Under this auction, the end-users and importers
specified the origin, price and quantity of grain, allowing millers to meet their varied
needs for the feed grain. On the other hand, Jordan’s state grain buyer recently
cancelled several barley tenders due to low participation from the tender houses.
11/06/2021
Oatly Group AB, a Swedish vegan milk maker, raised $1.4B with an initial public offering in the USA. The company is backed by Oprah Winfrey, Natalie Portman and rapper Jay Z, and currently sells its products across 20 markets across Europe, the United States and China. Much of the demand for plant-based foods, including vegan milk, is being led by millennials and generation Z consumers.
GrainCorp announced its half-year earnings11/06/2021
Australian based grain company, GrainCorp announced its half-year earnings which were generally positive due to the dramatic turnaround in Australian east coast production, high global demand for Australian grains and oilseeds, and despite China’s ban on barley trade. The company reported underlying first half EBITDA at $140M, up from $105M half-year results a year ago. The company also raised its full-year underlying EBITDA forecast to $255-$285M from $230-$270M previously.
Tunisia purchases barley from European traders02/06/2021
Tunisia has bought 50,000MT of feed barley via an international tender in the form of two consignments for 25,000 tons each. Details show an estimated price of $278.15/ ton sold by trading firm Dreyfus one consignment with $279.68/ton from Viterra for the second consignment with shipment during June 2021.
EverGrain Ingredients and Bright Future Foods are collaborating28/05/2021
EverGrain Ingredients and Bright Future Foods are collaborating to create sustainable and climate-positive food solutions. The products developed under this initiative will be formulated using EverGrain’s circularly sourced barley protein and fiber as well as Bright Future Foods’ climate positive oats extracted using innovative processes. The result is barley-based ingredients from a sustainable plant protein and fiber source, while Bright Future Foods’ snacks are made with greenhouse-gas-removing grains and targeted sustainable agriculture practices.
Barley11/05/2021
Local barley used in local craft beer
May 7, 2021
All Saints Brewing Co released an old beer recipe, dated back to the Revolutionary War, called Old Hanna’s Tow’ Amber Ale, including the use of local barley grown about a mile from the brewery. The barley was grown by Heinnickel Farms (Pennsylvania) from a field planted in spring 2020 and was malted by a local craft maltster, CNC Malt, in nearby Butler Country (Ohio). The farmer and the maltster are partners in a pilot project called ‘Farm to Tap’, organized by local nonprofit Food21. Local continues to be a major focus for brewers and with that requires significant effort in growing local ingredients. We expect more of this focus on local going forward as consumers demand locally produced products, including beer.
Barley News07/05/2021
Agriculture and Agri Food Canada (AAFC) has led the first project to sequence a Canadian malting barley variety, as part of an international collaboration on sequencing barley genome that began in 2006. This sequencing was focused on the Canadian variety, AAC Synergy with work dating back to 2019. The international initiative is part of a larger project that looks at both barley and oats.
Merredin Research Station found, by accident, fresh water coming from rain in WA state is not that fresh as it contains small amounts of salt. In time, and specially in dry years, this trace salt could have detrimental impacts on crops. In order to counter the salt’s impact, the research team concluded low rates of gypsum, added to such soil affected by transient salinity could increase barley yields by up to 28%.
Jordan expressing interest to buy 120,000 tons of barley.28/04/2021
The Jordan state buyer issued an international tender to buy 120,000 tons of animal feed barley. The deadline of price submission was April 21st but in the end no purchase was, as only one trading house participated. A new tender is being planned. Stay tuned.
Barley for climate change23/04/2021
A team of scientists, led by Magnus Goransson, initiated a study to breed crops to better fit local environments and help to close the expected yield gap, including breeding barley for climate change. The team did this by taking barley from Iceland to produce a crop that is ready to harvest earlier in the year. In this way, the earlier maturation helps avoid the usual harvesting period, Autumn, when bad weather and storms are more prevalent.
First US barley tea launched10/04/2021
Inaka is the first roasted grain tea in North America and is being distributed out of Madison County (MS), roasted in North Carolina and brewed & bottled in Dallas. Inaka tea is made from barley, it is inspired by a Japanese tea called mugicha. The barley tea is rich in antioxidants and vitamins A & C. The barley tea comes in three varieties – original barley tea, mint and ginger.
ABInBev is investing $100M in their St Louis facility09/04/2021
ABInBev is investing $100M in their St Louis facility in order to integrate subsidiary, EverGrain Ingredients which is repurposing spent brewers’ grain. The expansion will add 50 full-time employees to the site. The repurposed brewing byproduct offers significant nutritional value in food and other beverages. For example, EverGrain’s barley protein is currently available with innovative products like ‘Take Two’ plant-based barley milk and Nestle is considering the protein for the nutritional food supplement ‘Garden of Life’ brand, later in 2021.
Briess family still malting barley after 145 years19/03/2021
The Briess family started malting barley in Czechoslovakia in 1876 and family members moved to the US in the 1930s to continue the tradition. The US beginning was with the Chilton (WI) Malt House that they eventually bought. In 2013 & 2014, Briess added the Ralston grain facility, and Manitowoc malting facility, formerly owned by AB InBev. Today, 50% of US craft brewers use Briess malt in some fashion and the company is expanding overseas clients.
Deere & Company12/03/2021
Deere & Company, the biggest farm equipment manufacturer, forecasts an increase in sales for its agriculture and turf equipment in 2021 on the back of improved conditions in agriculture and construction sectors. Increases are expected to reach 5% for small agriculture equipment and up to 15%-20% for certain regions (e.g. US and Canada).
Chivas Brothers and Pernod Ricard26/02/2021
Chivas Brothers and Pernod Ricard announced kicking off sourcing all barley for Aberlour and The Glenlivet whisky from local farmers.
Barley growing conditions to affect whisky characteristics25/02/2021
It seems that barley growing conditions, specifically the location where it is grown, does influence the quality of the whisky. This according to a new study commissioned by Ireland’s Waterford Distillery and led by Oregon State University. The study followed two common barley varieties (Laureate and Olympus) grown in two different regions of Ireland (county Kildare and county Wexford) during 2017 and 2018. Via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and expert sensory panel it was found that the aromatic profile of the “new make spirits” resulting from the harvested and malted barley varied significantly based on where the barley was grown.
Russia12/02/2021
Russia is introducing an export quota and duty system for wheat, barley and corn on February 15th as a means to fight ensure sufficient domestic supply for milling and feed purposes. In the case of wheat, the export duty would go to €50 ($78.40) per ton. There are hints the export restrictions could extend into the Crop 2021 season.
Australian malting barley12/02/2021
A cargo of 35,000 tons of Australian malting barley was shipped in the middle January destined for Mexico, a market dominated by two main players: Grupo Modelo (part of AB InBev) and Cerveceria Cuauhtémoc Moctezuma (part of Heineken). This cargo follows approximately 90,000 tons shipped from Europe to Mexico in late 2020. The overall need is predicated by lower production in the local barley crop in 2020.
American Malting Barley Association12/02/2021
The American Malting Barley Association (AMBA) approved and recommended 2021 malting barley varieties list, containing 33 Two-Row and 7 Six-Row varieties. Modification from the 2020 list include dropping Scarlett and the addition of Flavia, Mayflower (produced by Malteurop) and Moravian 179.
Idaho 2020 barley crop – record average yield
05/02/2021
Idaho ranks #1 in the US in terms of total barley production, and where approximately 70% of the produced barley is malting quality. Idaho farmers produced 55M bushels (1.2M tons) of barley from ~500,000 harvested acres. Yields ranges from 140 – 180 bushels/acre (3.2 – 4.0 tons per acre).
Univar to distribute EverGrain’s ingredients in Latin America04/02/2021
Under an agreement reached between Univar Solution Inc and EverGrain LLC, Univar becomes the exclusive distributor in Latin America for EverGrain’s portfolio of plant-based protein and fiber ingredients for use in food, beverage and nutraceutical products. This follows a previous agreement between the two companies to distribute the same product portfolio in United States, Canada and different countries in Europe, Middle East and Africa.
Southwest Virginia (US) farmers growing barley for craft brewers.30/01/2021
InvestSWVA, a public-private business attraction and marketing campaign for South Virginia hosted a virtual celebration featuring partners of Project Calypso, a project where small, family farms are growing malting barley in the region. The company is marketing the “Appalachian Grains” brand to breweries and distilleries across the state as well as in surrounding states.
South African barley farmers impacted by the alcohol ban27/01/2021
South African barley farmers are feeling the impact of the pandemic related alcohol ban, as demand for the grain used to make beer falls and stockpiles are building. It is forecasted that existing stocks (719,307 tons in December) are 50% higher than the year prior while the sale of alcohol remains prohibited. The barley planted in South Africa is mainly for malting (brewing) purposes and finding alternative markets for a surplus would be a financial hardship for farmers.
Australian barley farmers find new markets20/01/2021
Australians barley farmers are finding new markets for their production in light of China’s imposed barley trade tariff. These new markets are Middle East (including Saudi Arabia), South East Asia and more recently Mexico, which is to receive the first shipment of malting barley, sourced by CBH in Western Australia.
EverGrain (USA): Sustainable barley proteins and fibers.12/01/2021
EverGrain is introducing sustainable and innovative plant-based protein and fiber ingredients made from barley. The company is utilizing a proprietary process that transforms saved grains from the brewing process into nutrient-rich ingredients that can be used in a variety of food and beverage applications. The process was developed over five years of rigorous research and development.
New Cornell University barley variety named: Excelsior Gold30/12/2020
A barley-pea mix is helping a farm in Cotsworld (England) achieve improved soil
health and reduce carbon emissions. The farm is using spring barley Irina and a
marrowfat pea, as these leafy peas can use the barley plants as a climbing
frame. The farmer started to grow the mix 12 years ago and continues to develop
the concept.
21/12/2020
Iran is buying 700,000 tons of Iraq’s surplus barley at $125 per ton. Iraqi agriculture ministry announced interest from Iran, Saudi Arabia and Turkey to buy its grain via a tender. Also,Tunisia state grain importer bought 100,000 tons of each wheat, feed barley and durum.
Australian coarse grains main buyers in October – Japan, Saudi Arabia and China20/12/2020
Latest export data show that Australian malting barley was mainly bought by Japan (30,800t out of 37,838t), Australian feed barley was mainly bought by Saudi Arabia (66,000t out of 108,441t), while Australian sorghum was mainly bought by China. Further data from the latest export reports, show that Australia exported 153,615t of malting barley during August to October, 431,769t of feed barley and 108,758t of sorghum.
Highest ever spring barley yield in Dorset16/12/2020
A farmer in Dorset, UK achieved the highest ever yield for spring barley, with
malting variety Laureate, at 9.3t/ha on average with top field reaching
10.5t/ha. All achieved via a focus on crop nutrition and canopy management, including variable fertilizer rates, micronutrients, and bio-stimulants.
16/12/2020
Early results of Argentina barley harvest show yields approaching 10% above normal/expected but with slightly lower proteins than anticipated. Harvest is approaching 50% complete and better yield areas still ahead. To watch closely is the ‘rain at harvest’ situation, as there has been some rain with other few heavy showers possible.
Fist grain export from Australia’s NWS ports15/12/2020
GrainCorp is happy to report the first grain export in years, after a few years of drought. The export represents a shipment of 50,000 tonnes of wheat collected from Southern NWS towns of Barellan, Milvale, Quandialla, Calleen and Ardlethan.
Malting barley premiums envisaged to increase next year09/12/2020
UK Grain traders forecast an increase in malting barley premiums, on the back of recovery from coronavirus lockdowns and a sharp fall in Spring Barley plantings in 2021. Grain merchants see a return of demand from brewers and distillers for malting barley, at pre-Covid levels at the same time as the AHDB Early Bird survey shows 700,000-750,000Ha of spring barley in 2021, down from 1,096,000Ha in 2020.
New Beast barley variety09/12/2020
First results from the first commercial plantings of Australian Grain Technologies new barley variety “Beast” are confirming value for growers facing the challenging Australian environment. The planting took place near Perth, in soil conditions of sand over gravel and 300m of rainfall per year. The crop was harvested at the end of October with a yield at 4.88 tons/Ha. According to the company, the barley variety was bred as a high yielding option for growers in low to medium rainfall conditions.
Only Irish barley in Irish whiskey07/12/2020
In 2019, Irish whiskey secured geographical indication from the European Commission, meaning that only whiskey that is distilled in the Republic of Ireland can be labelled as Irish whiskey. Beginning of December 2020, a request was submitted by a Social Democrats MP to amend the geographical indication to mention that the barley used in the manufacture of Irish whiskey needs to be sourced in Ireland as well. Republic of Ireland Agriculture Minister rejected the request, informing the country’s whiskey makers they would not be prevented from importing barley from other countries for the production of Irish whiskey. Reports show that 93% of barley used in brewing and distilling is native barley.
India’s craft beers craze could boost Australian barley demand30/11/2020
While India’s beer market was not one of the biggest ($7.8bn vs $105.4bn in US), a combination of population growth (15 million per year) and thirst for craft beer among young and wealthier people but has potential to grow into one of the world’s largest beer markets. This extra potential demand comes at the right moment for the Australia barley market, as it searches for replacement markets due to China’s decision to apply an 80% tariff on Australian barley due to trade tensions between the two countries.
Australian considers WTO appeal against China barley tariffs19/11/2020
As China is curbing imports of Australian goods via high import tariffs (top export products like iron ore, barley, crustaceans, animal hair, wood chips, cotton), Australia is responding with plans to take China to the WTO regarding these trade practices including the barley tariff. The path follows as a next step after the unsuccessful resolution through China’s domestic processes.
Contest to name new barley12/11/2020
Cornell University launched a contest to name a new barley and to support the New York state’s craft brewing industry. The barley, released by plant breeders at the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, is the first climate adapted grain in the state. The barley it is resistant to local fungal pathogens and pre-harvest sprouting in the wet climate of the state. The barley will be available to brewers by autumn 2021 and will help the state farm breweries to meet the requirement that 90% their ingredients to come within the state by 2024. The contest goes until December 3rd with the winner being announced on December 16th, during the virtual Entire State Barley and Malt Summit.
Ye Olde Centaur Barley Wine launched07/01/2020
Fremont Brewing and Brouwer’s Café launched the Ye Olde Centaur barley wine as a tribute to beer community legend, Matt Bonney, a larger-than-life personality on the Seattle beer scene. There is no better recognition than having a special product created in tribute to contributions made to the industry.
15/07/2021
The Beer Association of South Africa, consisting of the Craft Brewers Association (BASA), Heineken South Africa and South African Breweries (SAB), has implored the government to steer clear of another alcohol ban in the country. Despite these efforts, President Ramaphosa announced another alcohol ban (#4 ban) as the country enters a COVID Level 4 Alert for the first time in more than a year.
Colorado (USA) legislature supports a craft brewing recovery15/07/2021
The Colorado legislature ended their 2021 session in early June passing four bills supporting Colorado craft breweries recover from the pandemic and return toward growth. The bills cover immediate financial assistance to breweries and longer-term objectives including ‘take-away’ beer sales and home delivery from licensed establishments including breweries. Also, these bills allow breweries eligibility for festival permits, sales tax relief, and possible rebates for on-site event costs over the next 18 months.
Six Atlanta, Georgia (USA) beers to try this summer15/07/2021
Beer writer Stephanie Grant recommends the following six Atlanta beers for this summer: Hefeweizens – an OG hazy beer clove from Arches Brewing; Czech style pilsner flavours from Halfway Crooks; German style pilsners from Round Trip Brewery; Saisons from Orpheus Brewing; Hazy IPAs from Three Taverns; and American IPAs from Fire Makers brewery.
San Diego’s craft beer documentary15/07/2021
A new film profiles the San Diego (USA) craft beer scene where the film creators spent three years documenting brewers, owners and personalities who helped build the local beer culture. The film also pays tribute to long time craft beer supporter, Nate Soroko, who passed away recently
Study finds Americans prefer craft beers with a higher alcohol content.15/07/2021
The University of Pittsburgh released a study showing Americans are drinking less beer volume overall but shifting to craft beer containing higher alcohol. The study analyzed Nielsen Consumer Panel surveys from between 35,000 to 60,000 American households over the past decade.
Best Austin Texas beers recognized by CultureMap Tastemaker Awards15/07/2021
CultureMap Tastemaker Awards celebrates the spirit of Austin community by raising a glass to 2021 Brewery of the Year nominees: Austin Beerworks, Blue Owl Brewing, Fairweather Cider Co, Hi Sign Brewing, Holdout Brewing, Meanwhile Brewing Company, Roughhouse Brewing, St Elmo Brewing Co, Vacancy Brewing.
Nonprofit organizations aim to bring more women brewers into the industry15/07/2021
The Lady Justice Brewery in Denver (Colorado) donates a majority of profits to nonprofit organizations in Colorado that work to bring more women into the industry. The brewery, completely female owned and founded, is taking a lead to expand women inclusion in a male-dominated industry.
New Irish craft beers to delight us this summer01/07/2021
Irish craft brewers are preparing new hop-forward beers to quench the thirst of beer
lovers during the warmer summer days. A look at some such beers: (1) Metalman
Brewery: Giant Molecular Clouds (a fruity New England IPA), Cosmic Horseshoe (a
double-hopped IPA with five varieties of hops) and Gravitational Wave (a West Coast
IPA); (2) Whiplash Brewery’s Blue Ghosts (a German syle pilsner); (3) Lineman
Brewery: Electric Avenue Series (an intensively hoppy beer using Simcoe, Citra and
Mandarina Bavaria); (4) Ballykilcavan Brewery lager; (5) Wide Street’s Time Lapse (a
witbier with wheat, pale malt oats and coriander seeds).
01/07/2021
There are many ways in which humanity used dung to smoke food and drink or cook
over it. Finnish microbrewery Ant Brew is using such an approach to create a unique
beer while also cleaning the town’s parks (Lahti). The brewery is collecting goose
droppings from Lahti’s parks as fuel to smoke malt which creates a unique stout beer.
01/07/2021
What a better combination then between country music and beer? Organizers of the
Music City Brew Hop thought at the same when setting up trolley tours which stop at
various breweries. The Tennessee Craft Brewers Guild executive director explains
“these trolley tours provide beer lovers the opportunity to explore Nashville craft beer
in a unique, fun and safe way”.
01/07/2021
The study indicates Covid-19 reduced the economic impact from the Ohio craft brewing
industry by 8.9%, from $967.1M in 2018 to $880.7M in 2020. The study points out
volumes decreased by 11%, but surprisingly the number of operating breweries and the total number of people employed increased.
17/06/2021
The Craft Maltsters Guild (US) is hosting Malt for Brewers Workshop in partnership with
the Barley, Malt and Brewing Quality Lab of Montana State University (MSU), on August
9-10, 2021. The workshop will be held at the Plant Bioscience Building on MSU’s
campus and will include hands on lab activities, tours of MSU malt quality lab and
breeding flied plots, tour of a local malt house. Topics covered by the workshop are:
barley breeding and the North American supply chain, aspects of measuring barley and
malt quality, a review of the malting process and technology, malt styles, flavor and
troubleshooting.
17/06/2021
Craft brewers see the benefits of automation, especially when it comes to reduced
water usage in cleaning and dispensing processes. Automation helps optimize a
number of processes during the production of great tasting beers. However, the
equipment needed to deliver such automations can be costly and is the reason why
routine processes, such as cleaning-in-place (CIP), are a more a cost-effective solution.
17/06/2021
Illinois (US) craft brewers have been pushing for passage of the Brewers Economic and
Equity Relief Act, or BEER Act, which would enable permanent home deliveries and
direct-to-consumer shipping. However, the current bill being put forth that to the
Illinois Governor’s desk, excludes these critical provisions. The result is a constrained
market reach for struggling craft brewers.
17/06/2021
Atwater Brewery (Michigan, USA) revealed new packaging aimed to make thjeir
flavours stand out on retailers’ shelves and innkeepers’ bars. The new packaging will
highlight the name of the beer with a well-known logo on every can and bottle. The
company is known for its unique brews and its “Born in Detroit. Raised Everywhere.”
logo. Atwater recently joined the Molson Coors family bringing with it a Detroit brewing
tradition going back more than 180 years as the city’s first brewery in 1836.
02/06/2021
KFC has launched, in select locations across Australia, a Craft Beer Burger made with beer marinated chicken tenders and served with BBQ sauce infused with beer. The locations are also offering the beer marinated chicken tenders as part of a combo box.
Craft Brewers using the same base ingredients as Tequila to produce Agave and barrel aged beers.02/06/2021
In a search to create Mexican inspired beers in the US, the Border X Brewery in San Diego (CA) is brewing with agave, the ingredient which is used to produce tequila and mezcal. The choice was made, as most consumers are familiar with agave, associating it with Mexican beverages like tequila.
A beer for a vaccine.02/06/2021
An Art Festival in Pittsburgh promotes coronavirus safety measures, with one William Penn Tavern offering a free beer to those receive the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine. The festival features 100 local and visiting artists, showcasing their crafts, fine jewelry, hand-crafted apparel and décor.
Birmingham Brewery has launched its first American craft beer.02/06/2021
A Birmingham UK brewery, Dig Brew Co. has launched its first American-style craft beer produced with British hops, a New England Double India Pale Ale called Waka/ Jawaka. The beer results from successful collaboration with top chef Brad Carter and a leading hop merchant Charles Faram.
Australian Craft brewer packaging efficiency report published.02/06/2021
OFS, an Australian software company which supports manufacturing effectiveness, recently released new data that shows how Australian craft brewers are faring in efficiency across their packaging lines. According to the data – brewers fare well on speed and waste management (98.6% and 99.7%) but are only filling cans and bottles 54% of the time (a low use of equipment capacity). In addition, for every 1000 beers made, over 3 minutes is lost to unplanned downtime and on average brewers are unable to run their production line for more than 12min without stopping.
The US Brewers Association hosting educational webinars on preventing sexual harassment.02/06/2021
The Brewers Association creates a three-part webinar to help craft brewers to get better at creating inclusive, harassment free workplaces. The webinar is also focused to have participants craft an action plan in how to handle a complaint and outline what an investigation process looks like.
Craft Beer11/05/2021
New Jersey State offers free craft beers to vaccine recipients.
May 4, 2021
Phil Murphy, the governor of New Jersey State, announced the Shot and Beer program, under which residents of New Jersey who receive their first vaccine shot in May will also receive a free craft beer. There are at least 35 New Jersey craft breweries participating in the programme which jointly promotes public health (vaccine) and craft beer (who doesn’t love that)!
GEA Group develops a 20 hectoliters brewhouse for craft brewers.
April 28, 2021
GEA Group, a world leader in beverage systems, has developed the CRAFT-STAR M, a brewhouse with a hot wort capacity of 20 hectoliters per brew. The brewhouse is designed for craft brewers whose businesses are in still their growth phase but wish to gain the advantages of higher-tech equipment. The brewhouse provides the usual requirements in terms of process control, batch consistency and quality but at the same time upgrading systems to the latest technology in terms of energy and water usage, for example.
Tickets available for 2021 Seattle Fresh Hop Festival.
April 27, 2021
On May 1st tickets became available for the 2021 Seattle Fresh Hop Festival, to be held on October 9th, 2021, at Hangar 30 (a massive event center in Seattle). The festival plans to feature 75 fresh hop beers and cater for 2,500 people. With the Yakima Valley hops production not so far away, Seattle remains a vibrant craft beer innovation hub with hops playing a central role.
What are the US States which produced the most craft beer in 2020?
April 26, 2021
The US Brewers Association created two maps: one to show the total volume (barrels) produced in each state, and a second to show the ratio of barrels per adult resident (persons over 21 years old). According to the first map states like Texas, California, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio produced more than 1M barrels. According to the second map Vermont, Pennsylvania, Maine, Alaska, Oregon, Colorado, and Montana lead in the per capita production (legal drinking age). The findings show nationwide coverage for craft beer success, from which the recovery could be quite substantial.
New technology featured by Proof Brewing Florida.
April 23, 2021
Proof Brewing Florida has partnered with Earthly Lab (Austin Texas) to become the first brewery in Florida to implement carbon capture technology to reduce carbon dioxide emissions (CO2e). The plug-and-play technology from Earthly Lab enables craft breweries to capture more than 100,000 pounds of waste CO2e, the equivalent of more than 1,500 trees’ worth CO2e. The push to reduce carbon dioxide emissions is coming from across the brewing industry, including craft brewers which supports the view that everyone can contribute to a more sustainable brewing industry.
BrewDog continues its expansion.28/04/2021
BrewDog craft brewer continues its expansion and opened a new BrewDog DogHouse in Edinburgh. This is a beer hotel, bar and terrace in the center of the Scottish Capital. Each room will be equipped with beer on tap, mini bars with their best beers and fridges in the shower for shower beers.
US Small Business Administration announces official Restaurant Revitalization Fund application and guidelines.
28/04/2021
US Small Business Administration (SBA) announced key details on application requirements, eligibility and a programme guide for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF). The industry was very hard hit by the Covid-19 situation and in support, US President Biden signed into law the American Rescue Plan, where $28.6B are dedicated to RRF. The SBA will administer the funds to the hardest-hit small restaurants.
Massachusetts craft brewers team up to diversify their industry.28/04/2021
Kenary Brewery and Massachusetts Brewers Guild announced the creation of the ‘Hop Forward Equality’ website, to serve as a central clearinghouse for the industry in terms of diversity and inclusion initiatives, book suggestions, job posting and best practices. The duo is also launching a series of training sessions (virtually in the beginning) to help executives diversify their teams, as well as a video travelogue series to highlight brewers across the state and their contribution to diversity.
Brewers Association publishes 2020 annual craft brewing industry production.06/04/2021
The Brewers Association, representing small and independent American craft brewers, published 2020 industry report that shows both an all-time high number of operating breweries along with the first production decline in the modern craft area. The report shows a decline in market share of 9%, to 12.3% from 13.6% in 2019 and 13.0% in 2018, while the overall beer market decreased by 3%. The number of operating brewing companies reached a new peak at 8,764 breweries vs 8,391 in 2019 and 7,618 in 2018.
Augmented reality through packaging – new concept for craft brewers.02/04/2021
A high-tech concept, BEERSCANS, has been developed by Third Aurora and offers a unique virtual display experience from every beer label. The concept uses smartphones to scan labels, and augmented reality to project content back into the can/bottle. The concept was developed by Third Aurora.
Maine’s first non-alcohol craft beer launched.01/04/2021
Woodland Farms Brewery launched Maine’s first non-alcohol craft beer under a new brand named ‘Pointer’. The beer became sold out online after only four days which is a great example of the potential such a beer possesses. The high demand for non-alcohol brands like this one was confirmed also by the chief economist, Bart Watson, of the Brewers Association.
Brewers Association published the top 50 craft brewing companies.01/04/2021
The Brewers Association, representing small and independent American craft brewers, published its annual list of the top 50 producing craft brewing companies, shows that 40 of the 50 are small and independent craft brewing companies. The Association presented a comprehensive state of the industry via an online webinar.
New Oat Milk IPA – craft beer innovation.27/03/2021
Dogfish brewery launched new oat milk IPA. This is a new innovation in the pretty bizarre brews done by the company’s head craft brewer over the last 26 years. The new IPA is called Hazy-O! and comes from the oat milk of New York based plant milk producer Elmhurt 1925 and malted oats, rolled oats and naked oats.
The Mosaic State Brewers Collective – a programme promoting diversity24/03/2021
Two Seattle based breweries along with industry stakeholders launch a programme to promote diversity within the industry. The programme is mentorship based and focused to develop future beer industry leaders, who are more diverse. The programme launches this Summer for 10 participants and focuses on practical experience (e.g., recipe design and brewing, cellaring, and packaging), business planning, and management skills.
High tax increase opposed by brewers22/03/2021
West Virginia (US) Governor, Jim Justice, plans a tax repeal which would result in an increase in the beer barrel tax by 431%. As expected, the initiative is heavily opposed by West Virginia craft brewers as the tax change would move West Virginia to the second highest barrel tax in the nation, behind Alaska.
New Kentucky law cuts out the distributor ‘middleman’22/03/2021
A State law signed into law by Kentucky (US) Governor will allow microbreweries to sell directly to retailers, such as bars and restaurants, and thereby avoiding wholesaler and distributors. The law targets smaller brewers, up to 3,000 hL annual production goes into effect this Summer.
Best beer delivery boxes in Scotland in 202118/03/2021
Subscriptions for home delivery were a lifeline for craft brewers across the world. The same is true in Scotland, with a few familiar best beer delivery options: BeerBods, Beer52, Flavourly, Honest Brew, BrewDog Beer Bundles, Dry Drinker, and Beer Merchants PremiumClub.
BrewDog is expanding into India and Australia15/03/2021
BrewDog is opening a craft beer hotel in Brisbane, Australia. The hotel will be eco-friendly, dog-friendly and will be named, DogHouse. The company also announced the opening of its first bar in Mumbai, India.
UK craft brewers at record high numbers15/03/2021
Despite the pandemic lockdowns, followed by restaurant and cafes closure, the UK craft brewers increased in number, by +7.5% in 2020, reaching a total of over 3,000. This according to the findings of accounting firm UHY Hacker Young. Interestingly, the research found 55 new breweries were opened during the first lockdown (March 16th to June 1st 2020).
Georgia Beer Day celebrated at 50 breweries around the state.26/02/2021
On March 6th, when 50 beers and breweries across Georgia are celebrated as part of Georgia Beer Day. These breweries will be offering a limited-edition collector’s pint glass with select beer purchases. Also, $1 from every glass will be donated to the Georgia Craft Brewer’s Guild (GCBG).
Four new beer styles added to the Brewers Association Style Guide for 2021.25/02/2021
The four new beers added to the 2021 Beer Style Guide from The Brewers Association are: (1) Common Beer – a remnant from the Civil War, a beer coming from Kentucky and made with 25-35% corn grits or flakes out of the total grits; (2) New Zealand Pale Ale, (3) Indian Pale Ale – both containing a hugely extended pallet varieties, (4) Belgian Style Session Ale – an alternative to Belgian and French origin ale styles, with a lower alcohol content (only 2.1% to 5% adv).
AB InBev craft brewers pioneering a PPE recycling system.10/02/2021
Brewers Collective, the craft business unit of AB InBev, is working with TerraCycle to design a system that promotes the proper use of PPE – personal protective equipment. The initiative involves the installation of TerraCycle Zero Waste Boxes in 17 breweries where used PPE equipment can be deposited and subsequently picked up by TerraCycle. The used PPE will be cleaned and processed into a raw material that can be re-used in new products, like composite decking, outdoor furniture and reusable shipping pallets.
Minnesota (USA) Craft brewers back Govt bill to allow sales in smaller cans.09/02/2021
Nearly 30 Minnesota craft brewers have put forces together to help pass a bill to allow them to sell their products in any package between 12 and 64 ounces. Currently small brewers in the state can only sell their products in larger 25.36-ounce containers (‘crowlers’) or 64-ounce containers (‘growlers’).
Best Brews in Toronto.07/02/2021
Ren Navarro, a beer diversity expert that moved her professional life into brewing from the life insurance industry, is recommending the following craft brewers as the best in Toronto: That Way Was Easy (Pale Ale) from Red Tape Brewing; Stork Derby (Stout) from Muddy York Brewing; Obey the Rules (West Coast IPA) from People’s Pint; and Audio Visual (Lager) from Collective Arts. Check them out when you get back to the great city of Toronto.
Large US craft brewer expands into Colorado.04/02/2021
SweetWater Brewing Company, an Atlanta based craft brewer, is partnering with Eagle Rock Distributing Company to distribute its beer in Colorado, the 27th state where it will sell its beers.
New Juice Theorem IPA to be released in March.03/02/2021
The new IPA, The Juicer Theorem, was launched by Melvin Brewing in early 2021 and is reportedly juicer than the typical West Coast IPA, more clear than a New England IPA, and with a robust 7% alcohol and 70 IBUs.
Two new UK craft brewers named in consumers’ world top 10.02/02/2021
Full Circle Brew Co (Newcastle) and Alpha Delta Brewing (Newburn) were named in the top 10 new breweries in the world according to RateBeer, an independent website where consumers rate breweries and pubs. The review took place between June 1 2019 and January 1 2021, consumers rating breweries all over the world.
Scottish beer firm invests to stop the spread of Covid-19 in Malawi.01/02/2021
Brewgooder, a Scottish craft brewer, invested £50k to improve the coronavirus infrastructure for more than 90,000 people in Malawi including the starting two major clean water projects.
St Peter’s (UK) craft brewer sold.29/01/2021
John Murphy the owner of St Peter’s brewery, founded 23 years, sold the brewery to a team of private investors headed by CEO Derek Jones, who held numerous international marketing roles with SABMiller and Molson Coors (more recently as senior regional marketing director for Asia Pacific and Africa). The brewery was one of the first modern British craft brewers, known for its oval-bottomed flask style bottles and achieving notable export success.
Kirin Holdings is to invest $30M in an Indian craft beer producer29/01/2021
Kirin Holdings is to invest $30M in an Indian craft beer producer, B9 Beverages. Even though the craft beer company is one of the smallest players in the Indian beer market, it does have 5-10% of beer market share in densely populated cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
California to launch a statewide craft beer week.29/01/2021
The San Francisco Beer Guild plus six other guilds have joined forces to create a statewide California Craft Beer week with virtual events, tasting kits (8 or 12 packs of different beers curated by each of the 7 guilds). The event is meant to gather support for craft breweries across the state, who have been severely impact by the pandemic and its lengthy closure of bars and restaurants.
First Craft Brewers Whiskey Project to be launched28/01/2021
Berkshire Mountain Distillers, an award-winning maker of select premier craft spirits, along with three brewers in the Northeast US are launching a trio of whiskeys as part of their Craft Brewers Whiskey Project. The release will take place in February 2021 and is the result of over five years collaboration between the parties. The collection includes the distilling of a dozen different popular beers this limited group of the country’s top craft brewers from across five States.
Tortilla beer for Super Bowl 2021.27/01/2021
Two companies united forces to brew a beer using tortilla chips, just in time for the Super Bowl. Taco Works, a California based chips company, and Tio Rodrigo Craft Beer Micheladas teamed up to transform highly fermentable corn tortilla chips into a refreshing lager beer. To avoid adverse effects in the brewing process from the oil-fried chips, the brewers is using freshly bakes chips. The limited-edition Tortilla Chips Lager will be available in California select retailers and on-line.
Craft brewers to embrace non-alcoholic beers.25/01/2021
Even though craft brewing was created as a movement to challenge the norms and blaze a new trail different from the large brewers, such craft brewers take more and more notice of the health trend associated with non-alcoholic products. Some brewers such as Sam Adams are already present in the non-alcoholic beer sector while other like, Athletic Brewing are focused entirely upon non-alcoholic beers. Other craft brewers are also creating full flavoured, non-alcoholic offerings for their customers, some from classic styles like stouts, IPAs, porters, ales and lagers.
Brexit to stimulate December European craft beers sales.25/01/2021
To avoid supply disruption after Brexit, many UK consumers ordered stocks of European craft beers to make sure they are well secured with availability until all trade related matters affected by Brexit are resolved. At the same time, UK craft beer producers are bracing for increased costs as many ingredients and packaging materials come from the EU.
Canadian craft brewers luring customers with specific tastes.24/01/2021
To overcome the traditional winter thinking in that red wine, bourbon and whiskey are more suited to warming people up on a cold winter day, a group of Canadian craft brewers (leave it to Canadians) are putting forward a range of tasty stouts. From big full-bodied stouts such as vanilla fudge imperial stout, peppermint hot chocolate stout, maple hazelnut coffee stout and Russian imperial stout, customer looking for malty goodness with a warming benefit – there are several options available. Sounds delicious.
Best Irish independent craft beer.22/01/2021
Twenty brewers put forward beers, into a virtual peer evaluation event, meant to be the first Independent Craft Brewers of Ireland beer festival. These 20 beers were voted by the participant brewers by tasting numbered cans and bottles containing respective beers. The overall winner was Clock Imperial Stout from Around Brewery, a 12% powerful beer with masses of dark chocolate, toasted malt and roast coffee.
South Africa’s craft brewers struggling.21/01/2021
Craft brewers in South Africa are on the brink of collapse due to the alcohol ban, warned the South Africa’s industry body. The alcohol ban was introduced as part of new lockdown measures due to the emergence of a new Covid-19 strain late in 2020. The previous two alcohol bans lasting more than three months combined, costed the South African beer industry an estimated 7,400 jobs and R14.2B in revenue.
Craft beer trends in 2021.20/01/2021
Different consumers surveys are identifying the following five trends to take place in 2021 in the craft brewing industry: 1./ brewery landscape reshaping; 2./ rise of low and no alcohol beer; 3./ more juiciness (hazy IPAs, hazy pale ales, etc); 4./ craft malt (consumers discovering malt in a similar way as hops); and 5./ more hard seltzer (consumers being interested in sweeter beverages low in calories).
South African female brewmaster using sorghum and rooibos19/01/2021
Entrepreneur Apiwe Nxusani-Mawela is looking to create a South African style of beer, Tolokazi craft beers and ciders, by using local hops and other ingredients (rooibos, sorghum). The brand takes the name after the women that brew traditional African beer, known as umqombothi. Her aim is “for people to come to South Africa and say they came and had the best most unique beer ever. … tasting beers that they have never had in their life before, and they couldn’t taste anywhere else in the world”.
Maine senators to push for tax relief for craft brewers19/01/2021
Two US Senators in Maine, a Republican and an Independent, have joined forces to push for a tax relief for craft brewers and distillers, via an excise tax relief. The pair requested Congress is to act by the end of the year and view their proposal as being “an important economic lifeline to thousands of businesses across the country”.
2021 packaging design trend.18/01/2021
Even though craft brewers are more concerned with the taste and quality of the beer they are producing, packaging is becoming increasingly more important, especially in the pandemic circumstance. Packaging design trends to watch for are story driven packaging, product naming front & center, anatomical ink drawings, and organic shape colour blocking.
Massachusetts brewers celebrate franchise reform14/01/2021
Massachusetts lawmakers voted in December to allow breweries producing less than 250,000 bbls of beer per year (~300,000 hL) to terminate the relationship with their distributor at any time with 30 days’ notice. There are more than 200 breweries across the state that fit under the volume threshold indicated by the law, and therefore which will benefit from this increased flexibility in choosing their distributors.
Off Premise craft beer packaging concepts.14/01/2021
Faced with taproom closures, craft brewers were forced to innovate their packaging offering to appeal to their diehard fans as well as attracting new consumers. Packs include: 30-packs, 6/12/18 packs containing a mix of beers, and 4-pack offerings of unique product offerings.
Canoe Brewpub (Canada) bought by Craft Beer Market13/01/2021
Some further consolidation in craft beer, with Beer Market Restaurant and Bar Family, dining and craft beer chain, announcing a takeover for the Canoe brewpub (Victoria, Canada) on March 1st. The plan is to keep the brewpub named Canoe, but with some significant renovations and investments to come in the near future.
Annual Craft Brewers Conference moved to September in Denver12/01/2021
The 38th edition of the Craft Brewers Conference & Brew Expo America (CBC), presented by Brewers Association, the premier conference and trade show for the craft brewing industry, is returning to Denver on September 9-12, 2021. The CBC conference was initially planned for in San Diego during March 29 to April 1, 2021. By moving to Denver in September the Brewers Association, will allow more participants to take part to the event in-person. The annual event is a great venue for craft brewers to meet, connect, and look at the future of the industry.
A juicy new ale is launched09/01/2021
Coronado Brewing Company (USA) starts 2021 with an innovative ale – Orange Avenue Shandy. The beer is a super juicy, tart-with-a-hint-of-sweet Shandy, with 4.2% abv and brewed with 2-row malt, wheat and flaked oats for extra body. Citrus is a central theme for many new beer styles which Orange Avenue Shandy fits as well.
Luxembourg craft and artisanal brewers are thriving09/01/2021
Craft breweries across Luxembourg are thriving despite the current lockdowns. Success is centered upon the craft beers being available in specialized shops, an offering bio (organic) beers and other unique offerings which consumers are strongly interested. The range is everything from sparking beers, 100% locally grown cereal ingredients, vegan, low-calorie, and espresso stouts. The interest is both local and for export to neighbouring countries.
BrewDog wants to actovely support the UK covid-19 vaccine campaign07/01/2021
BrewDog CEO took to LinkedIn to offer the closed brewpubs as locations for vaccinations, for free. The reasoning was that these locations are equipped with huge refrigerators, waiting areas, separate rooms for vaccinations and personnel available to assist. As well, it creates strong goodwill for the brewer during the difficult pandemic lockdown and hopefully when re-opening begins, brings more consumers back to the bar.
An Aluminum Can shortage continues to affect craft breweries31/12/2020
Aluminum cans were already in high demand even before the pandemic, as many beverage companies were switching to aluminum – widely viewed as a more environmentally friendly beverage container material. Increasing demand was further impacted by the shift to off-trade from on-premise consumption during the pandemic. The can shortage is expected through 2022 when additional capacity comes on-line.
Kansas (US) lager brewed with 100% malt from local malting barley30/12/2020
Field’s & Ivy Brewery brew the first commercially bottled beer since 1890 with malting barley grown exclusively
in Kansas after owners Cory and Veronica Johnston began the journey 2016. The brewers’ grain company business, Great Plains Custom Grain, collaborated with grain company partner, Gary van Horn and within five crops they achieved malting barley quality.
30/12/2020
Nova Scotia craft brewers acknowledge home deliveries as a lifeline for their business during Covid-19 situation when hospitality sales were down ~70% (taprooms closed, and kegs sales to restaurants/bars halted). Brian Titus, Vice President of the Craft Brewers Association of Nova Scotia and President of Garrison Brewing Company in Halifax believes home deliveries are here to stay.
Southern New Hampshire brewers releasing interesting new beers.29/12/2020
Southern New Hampshire brewers (UK) are releasing some interesting new beers, including such as Rockingham brewery’s Remy’s DIPA (9%), a rye-based double IPA; Stark Brewing’s Zilla (8.5%), a double dry hopped & double IPA and Beermisu (5.3%), a dessert stout brewed with coffee, dark sugars and chocolate. Pipe Dream Brewing is launching White Chocolate Mocha Stout (9%), and Straight Trippin’ Triple IPA (10.5%), while Ancient Fire Mead & Cider Brewery is releasing Rogue Flywheel (7%), a hop and spicy raspberry blossom mead with pineapple and habaneros. Lots of higher alcohol products with unique, and innovative ingredients continues to stretch the beer category.
More brewpubs for Delaware craft brewers24/12/2020
A House Bill, number 45, sponsored by Rep Bill Bush and Dem Dover West, would allow Delaware breweries to own and operate up to five brewpubs in the state, (up from currently limit of three). The bill was filed on Dec 18th and is aimed for growth in the State itself, rather than outside.
Beer subscription clubs – lifeline for Illinois craft breweries23/12/2020
To succeed during the tough times generated by the Covid-19 pandemic, many craft breweries are finding a different business model – community supported breweries. This new concept allows consumers to pay a flat fee in exchange for a certain amount of freshly brewed beer per week/ month/ quarter which is either picked-up at the taproom or delivered to their home.
US craft brewery tax break permanent22/12/2020
The latest Covid-19 relief bill passed by the US Congress, contains a permanent extension of the fermenters tax break, which applies to breweries, wineries and distillers. According to the provision, first instituted in 2017, breweries that produce less than 2M barrels per year are charged $3.50 per barrel in federal excise taxes instead of $7.00, for the first 60,000 barrels. The tax break was scheduled to terminate at the end of 2020.
Virtual edition for BC Craft Brewers Conference in 202121/12/2020
BC Craft Brewers Guild announced that it will be hosting the BC Craft Brewers Conference virtually in 2021. The conference will take place on Feb 3rd and 5th 2021, with the aim to bring together key stakeholders from the craft brewing
industry, for a networking and educational event. Tickets are now available online.
21/12/2020
GearPatrol.com, an e-commerce platform, discussed with several beer experts (brewers, bar owners, beer journalists) and identified 46 best craft beers in 2020, You can check out the full list on their website.
First black-owned soda company created in North Carolina20/12/2020
MichaelRobin son created Bingo-Bango Fresh Fruit Soda Company, of which he is the sole owner, the first wholly black-owned soda brand in the nation. He sees Bingo Bango to symbolize something unique, exciting, creative, or artistic.
Anagram – a $60 beer pint in New Zealand19/12/2020
Anagram, a Blueberry Cheesecake Imperial Stout, by Omnipollo and Dugges, aged for nine months in Heaven Hill Bourbon Barrels, is a 15% alcohol beer, shipped cold from Sweden to New Zealand. It is sold by The Fridge and Flagon in Auckland in 200ml glasses, for $25 a glass. The cost per pint ($60) makes the beer possibly the most expensive beer in New Zealand.
Missouri Craft Brewers Guild bringing brewers together17/12/2020
To mitigate the closure of the beer festivals, conferences and events, the Missouri Craft Brewers Guild brought together 22 breweries across the state to collaborate on one beer. The beer is called ‘Missouri Loves Company’. All proceeds resulting from the sales of this beer will go to the Guild, to be used for further efforts to protect and promote craft beer in the state. Also, the Guild hopes that customers will be drawn to the respective breweries.
The best Chicago Craft Brewers List has been published16/12/2020
When we get back to exploring beer experiences, and if Chicago is in your plans, here is a sample of the Top 5 best craft brewers in Chicago: Corridor Brewery and Provisions, Motor Row Brewing, Dovetail Brewery, Revolution Brewing, and Begyle Brewing. We add the iconic Goose Island Brewery (part of ABInBev group and one of the first craft pioneers).
Women are growing in importance in the Phoenix, AZ brewing industry16/12/2020
Brewing has been traditionally a male dominated industry, but that is changing as more and more women are making applications to work in breweries and taprooms, according to Greenwood Breweries owner, Megan Greenwood. This trend is further seen by the expansion of the Pink Boots Society, an organization of women in the brewing industry, founded in 2007, and now with 16 chapters and 2,400 members.
Craft Brewing is coming to Washington, DC downtown16/12/2020
Renovating a 200-year-old downtown building into a brewery brings craft brewing in Washington business landscape. The owners of the Mulberry House brewery, plan to open in Spring 2021 in a rehabilitated old building in Washington’s downtown. The brewery will feature a restaurant, curated by an experienced New York chef, and a rooftop, overlooking the waterfront which is hoped to act as a catalyst for traffic in the community.
Stockton Heath, UK to have a new craft beer shop14/12/2020
Craft beer shop Anchor and Hops opened a small specialist shop in Stockton Heath. When at full capacity, the shop will stock 350-400 different craft beers, in cans, bottles and kegs, from breweries across the country. In 2021, after coronavirus rules ease, the shop plans to open a bar for on-site enjoyment as well.
Craft brewery to partner with clubs all over Lancashire, UK.14/12/2020
Hops and Shots, a craft beer company, launched a new product range after partnering with Blackburn Rovers: the brands are named Rovers Lager, Champions Golden Ale, and Ewood Bitter. Further partnership plans include other football clubs, rugby and cricket clubs all over the country as a means to connect with sport fans. Previous partnership included collaboration with celebrity chef Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall and UFC fighter Darren Till.
Founders Brewing announced its 2021 Brand Calendar11/12/2020
Founders (Grand Rapids Michigan) announced its 2021 brand calendar, confirming the planned changes to their beer portfolios, including several new beers, and updated brand packaging. Some of the news shared: the launch of a Bottle Shop Series, including Nemesis barley wine style ale (11.2% abv) brewed with roasted malts and no shortage of hops; kick off of Panther Cub (9.2% abv) under the Barrel-Aged Series, a robust porter; the return of two popular brands in the Barrel-Ages Series – Mas Agave Clasica Lime (10% abv) and Mas Agave Clasica Grapefruit (9.7% abv).
US Craft brewers hope for extension of beneficial excise duty for their sector.11/12/2020
As the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act, containing a lower excise duty expires end of December 31st. Craft brewers are watching closely if the measure will continue from January 2021. According to Colorado based Brewers Association and the Washington based national beer trade association Beer Institute, a higher tax is to begin January 1st. The two organizations are seeking an extension of the current lower federal tax and held a press conference with industry representation to deliver the message. The lower tax is seen as needed, specially under the pandemic circumstances, when many craft breweries were hit hard by on-trade lockdown restriction.
Kentucky craft brewers are struggling due to Covid-1909/12/2020
According to a 2019 report, Kentucky has the second highest rate of craft brewers’ growth in the US. The 88 craft brewers across Kentucky have been devastated by the Covid-19 lockdown restrictions which has resulted in 3 breweries closing and dozens of other brewers struggling. Besides the lost trade in restaurants and bars, there is an on-going delay in the implementation of a law passed in March’20 to allow craft brewers to make limited direct sales to consumers. The law, a lifeline during the pandemic, is still not implemented.
Fishbone – recyclable can carrier launched08/12/2020
Atlantic Packaging, in cooperation with Fishbone Packaging, announced a new recyclable can carrier to replace plastic ring handles, called Fishbone. Fishbone is a curbside recyclable, biodegradable, paper based can carrier that replaces single use plastics and uses significantly less material than full overwrap paperboard cartons. The new carriers are available for standard cans and Alumi-Tek bottles in both four-pack and six-pack formats.
2020 Brewbound ‘Pitch Slam 12’ Competition announced08/12/2020
Brewbound ‘Pitch Slam 12’ Competition, presented by Anheuser-Busch’s Brewers Collective, announced its six finalists: Cajun Fire Brewing Company (New Orleans, Louisiana), Lunar Hard Seltzer (New York, NY), Norwalk Brew House (Norwalk, California), Pow Brewing Company (Torrance, California), Study Break Hard Seltzer (Los Angeles, California), Dokkaebier (San Francisco, California). Each brewer will make a ‘Pitch’ to a panel of experts and virtual participants who will vote for a winner, who will take home a trophy and the grand prize – an advertising package valued at $10,000, plus lab testing and quality assurance support from Elevate QA (a new initiative by Brewers Collective to provide free lab access and assistance to craft brewers).
Renewed alliance to promote workplace safety in Ohio breweries08/12/2020
US Department of Labour’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and an organization representing many Ohio craft brewers renewed a two-year alliance to improve workplace safety. Under the alliance, the participants will continue to develop and build awareness and educational programmes, delivered via free on-line trainings, on hazards in the craft beer industry – brewing, storing, bottling, canning, packaging, handling and delivery.
College scholarship supports Black students pursuing brewing science.07/12/2020
A partnership between Sacred Heart University, New England Brewing Company and Connecticut Brewers Guild is supporting an initiative to provide The Connecticut Brewers Guild African American Brewing Scholarship. For the one-year brewing science programme, the recipient all tuition costs paid and allows students to learn the craft, get certified and intern at local breweries.
All veteran brewed beer released in North Carolina05/12/2020
Crystal Coast Brewing Company of Morehead City, and Hopfly Brewing of Rocky Mount
joined forces to create a hazy pale ale (5.4%), brewed by all military veterans from both breweries. The beer was brewed with Yakima Chief Hops’ 2020 VeteransBlend, comprised by five different Pacific Northwest grown hop varieties.
04/12/2020
Croatian craft brewer, Varionica, received a double gold medal for their Pale Ale beer, a bronze medal for their NOEL Passion Sour beer and a gold for their collaborative Chef’s beer, during the most prestigious beer competition – European Beer Challenge 2020. The Croatian craft brewer was in competition with thousands of samples from 39 countries.
Hop Valley Brewing expanding across North America04/12/2020
Molson Coors, owner of Hop Valley Brewing and its flagship Bubble Stash IPA, plans a North American distribution and marketing expansion in 2021. This follows a Hop Valley’s significant growth in 2020, which stands at +21%.
Pittsburgh Brewers Guild invitation to a virtual tasting session01/12/2020
The virtual tasting sessions will be held via Zoom, during the Holiday Season, with participants asked to go to a local brewery and/ or distributor to buy the beers which will discussed during the virtual sessions. The Pittsburgh Brewers Guild represent 30+ independent breweries in Allegheny County.
Lagunitas launches a new non-alcohol IPA01/12/2020
Lagunitas launches a non-alcohol version of its #1 seller India Pale Ale, called ‘IPNA’, as the demand continues to grow for non-alcohol beers. The team wanted to ensure the new beer tastes like beer and therefore selected a different brewing technique than the traditional alcohol removal process. In this case, by pulling the yeast during the fermentation and before alcohol develops, this process allows flavour to fully develop in the brewing process, that includes introduction of hops at four points.
Israel – Using Canadian Cannabis Industry Framework to Roll Out an Adult Use Market20/11/2020
Middle November, the Israel Justice Minister said that Israel is looking to legalise recreational cannabis within nine months. In anticipation of parliament approval of such a legalization, HEXO Corporation, a Canadian cannabis producer, announced a contract with Breathe of Life, a leading Israeli cannabis company. Hexo’s leverage on the Israeli market is related to the its relationship with Molson Coors. Molson provides Hexo with the necessary infrastructure to expand and help the Hexo to execute on the international sid
New black owned brewery in Grand Rapids craft beer scene20/11/2020
The first beer of Jamaal Ewing and Terry Rostic, the co-founders of Black Calder Brewing, was launched Friday after Thanksgiving as a black IPA with chocolatey notes and a citrusy finish. Even though the pandemic delayed some of the plans of the two co-founders, they continue their search of a location and intend to create a welcoming space for people in the neighborhood to gather.
Lakefront Brewery to open ‘Hop Houses’ for dining and drinking during winter20/11/2020
In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Lakefront Brewery is offering ‘Hop Houses’ which are small greenhouses which have been transformed into cozy, relaxing and decorated private dining experiences. Guests are able to spend 90 minutes in a six or eight-person Hop House, complete with white tablecloths, holiday lights, heaters. A food & drink minimum needs to be met during each visit.
Brewing Company to support Air Ambulance19/11/2020
Birmingham Brewing Company is partnering with Midlands Air Ambulance Charity to raise funds for the local lifesaving service, by introducing a low alcohol beer to the festive range gift of the charity. The brewery is donating 5% for each sale to support the critical aircrew of the Charity and its vital work this Christmas. The two organization will jointly host a virtual beer tasting event on Thursday December 3rd.
A Stratford Brewery tops in the International Beer Challenge18/11/2020
Free Way IPA of Athletic Brewing was named “supreme champion” globally in a right competition and in front of hundreds of beers entered in the competition. Brazil’s Crevejara Wals, neck on neck with Athletic Brewing beer, and three other regional leader were named the world’s supreme overall brewer this year.
Aphria (a cannabis firm) Acquires an American Craft Brewers14/11/2020
Cannabis firm Aphria announced on November 4th to have acquired SweetWater Brewing Company, a craft brewer from Atlanta. The craft brewer generates sales of $66.6million, net income of $22.7million and is top 14 American craft brewer by 2019 sales. Besides expanding into a new business venture, this is a way for Aphria to make inroads into the United States market, in expectation of US federal legalization of cannabis.
22/07/2021
Heineken announced their taking control of United Breweries Limited (UBL), with an ownership share increase to 61.5% (from 46.5%) and includes changes to allow the nomination of a new chairman. The share was originally 37.5% in 2008 at the time of the Scottish & Newcastle brewery.
Historic Scottish pub gets a makeover15/07/2021
The historic Hamilton (near Glasgow) pub, originating back to 1859, is getting £150,000 makeover as The Stonehouse is going through a refurbishment investment undertaken by its owner Star Pubs & Bars (Heineken owned). The renovation began July 5th and will finish by mid-August with a complete restoration of the outside of The Stonehouse, including fresh paint, new signage and lighting plus outdoor seating for up to 30 people. Inside, new wood floors and paneling, leather upholstery, quirky lighting and decorations along with the installation of state-of-the-art television features, as well as a snug area.
Heineken Nigeria to entertain fans with UEFA EURO 2020 Finale showpiece event.15/07/2021
Nigerian consumers and fans were thrilled by an unforgettable viewing experience at the exclusive Heineken fan park in Lagos during the final match between Italy and England.
AB InBev gives away free beer on the 4th of July.15/07/2021
AB InBev promised to give Americans free beer if the White House hits its goal of vaccinating 70% of US adults against Covid-19 by the Independence Day Holiday, on July 4th. Even though the goal fell short, the beer company is keeping the promise and delivered free beer.
New diversity scholarship in Madison (US)01/07/2021
A scholarship program from The Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company (part of Molson
Coors Beverage Company) and UW-Madison aims to help boost diversity in the brewing
world. The scholarship intends to support students from underrepresented groups
(e.g., Latino, Black/African American, American Indian, Asian) who are studying
brewing or fermentation sciences in Madison. The awards are named, The Jake
Leinenkugel Diversity in Brewing Award with the initial endowment coming from a
$50,000 donation by Molson Coors, via its social justice initiative.
01/07/2021
Licensed Wholesale Company (LWC) headquartered in Manchester (UK), reported a loss
of £70,305 for the 12 months to September 30, 2020, compared to a pretax profit of
£15M in the prior year. The company turnover also fell to £243.6M vs £346.5M, over
the same period. For the first half of the 2020/21 financial year turnover was down
83%, but the company minimized the overall business impact by managing costs which
provides confidence for a strong recovery in the second half of the year.
01/07/2021
The company’s new ad campaign advises people to never drink alcohol while working
or switch to smart drinking with Heineken 0.0. The idea is a result from the Covid-
required working from home requirements and along with Zoom Meeting fatigue there
are often difficulties in separating work from life. In some cases, new habits form
related to alcohol consumption and this campaign is aimed at helping people achieve a
healthier outcome.
01/07/2021
Diageo broke another ad barrier of the National Football League (NFL) by becoming
first-ever spirits sponsor. The multiyear deal gives Diageo the right to use NFL
trademarks in national TV ads, digital marketing and activations at games.
01/07/2021
Molson Coors donated $50,000 to Sherman Phoenix Foundation in the form of a grant
intended to support the efforts to foster economic equality and empowerment for
leaders of colour. Programmes include technical assistance for 25+ small business
tenants, wellness programming, educational offerings as well as arts and cultural
events.
17/06/2021
The Bay Horse pub in the village of Worsthorne, Burnley UK, is to undergo a major
£500,000 refurbishment, undertaken by Star Pubs and Bars (Heineken-owned
company) and the Hightown Pub Company (owned by Chris and Jon Nevin). The
refurbishment and rearrangement of the pub will lead to the creation of an extra 30
jobs as re-opening is set to begin in mid-July.
17/06/2021
Yuengling, America’s oldest brewery, and Molson Coors have announced August 23 rd as
the date for the launch of Yuengling beers across Texas. This represents the fledgling
relationship between the brewers which includes such great brands as Yuengling
Traditional Lager, Light Lager 99, Golden Pilsner, and Flight.
17/06/2021
ABInBev is offering four SKUs of 33cl packed products with the price marked on the
product packaging (in this case GBP5.99) being rolled out across the UK off-premise
marketplace. According to the company, the UK and Ireland divisions, are seeing
increasing interest for consumers for packs with clear pricing as they are viewed as less
confusing and more transparent. Analysts believe the transparent pricing will not
detract from the brand perception which is sometimes a concern when pricing is put on
the packaging.
17/06/2021
The company is launching the ‘Three Fold’ hard seltzer brand in the UK, targeting the
adult population that revel in the joy of self-expression and defy categorization,
including the elusive generation Z. The Company has employed Havas Agency, to push
various social media pathways to the consumers.
17/06/2021
The company signs a five-year beer deal with UK football club, Bradford City, which
make Carling the Bantams’ official lager from next season. Based on the deal, brands
distributed by Molson Coors will be served around the Utilita Energy Stadium.
17/06/2021
The company signs a five-year beer deal with UK football club, Bradford City, which
make Carling the Bantams’ official lager from next season. Based on the deal, brands
distributed by Molson Coors will be served around the Utilita Energy Stadium.
17/06/2021
The company signs a five-year beer deal with UK football club, Bradford City, which
make Carling the Bantams’ official lager from next season. Based on the deal, brands
distributed by Molson Coors will be served around the Utilita Energy Stadium.
17/06/2021
Carlsberg Malaysia unveiled a limited-edition ‘CHEER TO FOOTBALL’ packaging in a
‘CELEBRATE’ themed promotional series, intended as a tribute to the football fans who
bring the sport to life with passion and soul. Carlsberg’s Danish Pilsner and Carlsberg
Smooth Draught cans and bottles are available in collectible football-themed
packaging.
17/06/2021
Heineken has completed the vaccination of 80% of its Cambodian workforce, including
both full-time employees as well as subcontractors. Next up is starting vaccinations for
Mexican operations including workers, families, dependents and merchants across the
Company’s facilities, all in accordance with Mexican government vaccination plan.
11/06/2021
Molson Coors Canada is focusing to make hard seltzer a high priority this year with an upgrade to the Toronto facility which expands the capability to produce spirits and malt-based hard seltzers. The expansion, coming in 2022, quadruples the facility’s capacity and includes the installation of reverse osmosis, nanofiltration technology, a flavor kitchen, a blender and canning line. RMI – A continuation of the transformation beyond beer for Molson Coors and greater production flexibility to meet widening consumer preferences.
Carlsberg announced support for the implementation of global standards for online alcoholic sales issued by the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking (IARD). The IARD comprises 12 beer, wine and spirits companies who work with online retailers to apply robust standards across the entire supply chain to combat harmful drinking. RMI – With increased e-Commerce volumes this is a critical initiative to promote responsibly consumption.
AB InBev is partnering with Embark a driverless truck technology start-up, and several shippers and cargo haulers (Werner Enterprises, Mesilla Valley Transportation and Bison Transport) to test Embark’s autonomous trucking system. Embark started in 2016 and has a fleet of 16 autonomous trucks moving refrigerated and dry goods for clients, currently operating with human safety drivers where US state law requires. RMI – Finding qualified truck drivers is a major problem in the US, and technology like Embark’s offers a long-term solution to address this problem.
Heineken announced several management appointments. Erin Antan joined Heineken as Asia Pacific Corporate Affairs Chief. Hans Essaadi was appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Breweries Plc as of July 31st 2021.
Heineken makes an offer for a majority stake in Distell, a South African beverage company focused on wine, spirits and cider. The transaction would potentially include Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (Amarula and Viceroy distribution) and Bunnahabhain Scotch whisky. To complete the transaction, competition concerns could result from both companies holding strong positions in the cider market. RMI – Another example of brewers expanding beyond beer to provide a wider range of alcohol products.
Marston’s (Carlsberg UK JV partner for brewing operations), recorded a pretax loss of £105M for their H1 fiscal period, citing post-lockdown sales hitting 80% of pre-pandemic levels. The company also indicated that it drawn down £164M of the £280M bank facility, which is in place until 2024. RMI – Results clearly indicate the negative impacts from the pandemic and the degree required to return to pre-Covid profitability. It is good to see Marston’s continued investing in pub infrastructure to better deal with social distancing and related space limitations.
Beverage companies are setting up relief initiatives to support India’s terrible Covid-19 situation. AB InBev and Diageo committed oxygen concentrators, essential aid kits, masks and test kits across the country. Further support including funding to help government hospitals with oxygen plants and mini-bed hospital units. RMI – Great support from these companies in helping a country ravaged by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Heineken ties up with the NFL’s Miami Dolphins.02/06/2021
Heineken USA and the Miami Dolphins (NFL) have reached an advertising agreement focusing upon eight Heineken branded bars and a two-story lounge called the ‘Heineken Hideout’ located in Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium. In addition, the Heineken 0.0 brand will be promoted during the fourth quarter of the Dolphins home games at sampling events during the campaign.
Brewmboni – an accessory for hockey fans in Canada.02/06/2021
Molson Coors Canada has launched the most interesting piece of home accessory for its hockey fans – a miniature ice resurfacing machine which is also a mini-robot vacuum and beer cooler plus beer transporter to your sofa. The device, the ‘Brewmboni’ holds four Molson Canadian tallboys, and can detect and clean up messes while fans cheer their favourite NHL teams.
02/06/2021
Heineken is partnering this Summer in California with Waze (driving direction APP) to provide in-App notifications including vouchers from leading rideshare APPs to encourage consumers not to drive when they drink. The campaign was launched on Memorial Day and will last throughout the Summer, with a goal to expand in other markets and in an on-going effort to get drunk drivers off the road.
Heineken and Hornell Brewing Co planning a marketing promotion for the Arizona Sunrise Hard Seltzer.02/06/2021
The two companies are launching a summer long marketing activation in the US with various giveaway promotions. The campaign is only available to US residents and ends on September 14th. Arizona Sunrise Hard Seltzer is the available in four flavours – Mucho Mango, Lemon, Cherry Punch and Grapefruit.
Bristol Pub to undergo major transformation.02/06/2021
A well-known Bristol Pub, called Portcullis, is undergoing a major £450k transformation, both inside and outside by its new owner to give the traditional pub a modern twist. The outside areas will be equipped with festoon lighting and seating for up to 130 people. The inside will have three areas – bar lounge, dining area and high seated bar area, with space for 75 people.
Heineken Ireland 10M fund to support the local hospitality industry.02/06/2021
Ahead of wider hospitality reopening, Heineken Ireland offers its employees €250 each to promote on-premise drinks and eating, when a majority of the 3,500 bars and pubs reopen on June 7th. The total investment will amount to €10M and will provide a much-needed spark to the pandemic embattled pubs and restaurants.
Bud Light betting on ‘fun brand personality’ to boost hard seltzer.02/06/2021
AB InBev, the company behind the Bud Light brand, is launching Bud Light Seltzer in the UK. Taking learnings from the very crowded US marketplace, the company aims to use the same light-hearted, comedic marketing approach as in the US, to win UK consumers on its side.
Five current beer trends to watch28/05/2021
Five current beer trends to watch: 1. the taste for new and different (new tastes, craft beers); 2. beer with benefits (CBD, non-alcohol); 3. mixed drinks (rose beers, hopped wines, fruit lagers); 4. lager reimaged; and 5. positive impact beers.
Asahi has turned strategic focus to non-alcoholic beer brands28/05/2021
After a string of acquisitions to reshape their global footprint (Peroni, Pilsner Urquell, Carlton Draught), Asahi has now turned strategic focus to non-alcoholic beer brands. The strategy is supported by pressure in Japan where beer volumes have fallen for more than two decades, and the government has tightened its crackdown on heavy alcohol consumption.
Carlsberg and Marston’s joint brewery group28/05/2021
Carlsberg and Marston’s joint brewery group announced the appointment of the current CFO of the company, Andrew Andrea, in the role of its CEO starting with October 3rd, 2021. Mr. Andrea joined Marston’s in 2002 and sat on the board of since 2009.
Heineken is relinquishing the management28/05/2021
Heineken is relinquishing the management and daily operational control of 750 pubs in the Netherlands, to QB Management, an asset management form. With this arrangement, pub owners will take questions and concerns regarding the operations of these premises directly to the new management company.
Molson Coors is the first major global brewer to support groundbreaking digital identification solutions28/05/2021
Molson Coors is the first major global brewer to support groundbreaking digital identification solutions to enhance legal age verification systems at all retail points of sale and protects user privacy. Launched by NACS, the global trade association for the convenience and fuel-retailing industry, and Conexxus, a standards-setting partner is the ‘TruAgeTM’ system. The program places one-time tokens on mobile devices to confirm legal age ability to purchase age restricted products.
AB InBev announced the launch of BudStar Global Accelerator Programme 202128/05/2021
AB InBev announced the launch of BudStar Global Accelerator Programme 2021, an initiative intended to identify disruptive brewery innovation solutions, among other things using emerging innovative technologies. The India based programme is one of the four global innovation hubs aimed at promoting innovation to solve business problems.
AB InBev has announced the succession of its CEO Carlos Brito by Michel Doukeris28/05/2021
AB InBev has announced the succession of its CEO Carlos Brito by Michel Doukeris, the president of its North America business, as of July 1st. Mr. Doukeris joined the company in 1996 and previously worked in brewer’s business in China and Asia-Pacific with a focus on brand marketing. Brito leaves behind a great legacy of deal making which created the world #1 Brewer representing nearly 3 of 10 beers produced globally.
Beer News11/05/2021
Heineken reveals limited-edition football bottles.
May 10, 2021
The limited bottle design is featuring the flag of the different qualifying teams to the 2020 UEFA European Football Championship, a major football event held every four years. Due to the pandemic the 2020 Championship will only be played June 11-July 11, 2021. The limited bottle from Heineken is available across multipacks for the flagship Heineken 5% and Heineken 0.0% brands. As reopening brings people back together this is great time for Heineken to re-connect with football enthusiasts.
Asahi Super Dry the official beer for the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
May 8, 2021
Asahi and World Rugby reached an agreement to have Asahi Super Dry beer as the Official beer for the Rugby World Cup 2023. The cup takes place in France from September 8th to October 28th, 2023 with 20 countries participating including South Africa, England, Wales, New Zealand, Japan, France, Australia, Ireland, Scotland, Italy, Argentina, and Fiji.
Coors Light releases a weighted hoodie.
May 7, 2021
Coors Lights introduced the first piece of clothing designed to maximize the chill – Coors Light Raptor Weighted Hoodie. The hoodie uses the same technology as the weighted blanket, which is known for its calming properties. The hoodie is intended to be worn during games so fans can chill through buzzer-beating couch-coaching, high pressure moments with ease.
The Guinness Brewery teams up with Black Marylanders to fund social justice.
May 7, 2021
The Halethorpe Brewery created a specialty beer intertwined with black culture as part of the Guinness Gives Back Baltimore Community Fund, a million-dollar commitment to support three areas in the Baltimore region’s Black community – economic, justice, and community empowerment & equal representation. One such beer is ‘See Us’, a brown ale infused with flavours of sweet potatoes, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and a whisper of vanilla.
Stella Artois is launching a new bottle to support restaurants.
May 6, 2021
Stella Artois is aiming to launch a sleek aluminum bottle, with a portion of proceeds going towards the James Beard Foundation’s ‘Open for Good’ program, which offers help to restaurants that may be struggling to survive. The new bottle will carry a QR code the shape of a chalice on the back, allowing patrons to scan for information about the fund and nominate restaurants to be on the receiving end of the assistance. A great initiative to support those businesses hardest hit during the pandemic.
New Hard Seltzers hitting the market this Spring.
May 6, 2021
The list of Hard Seltzer brands continues to expand at a feverish rate, with seven new additions coming this Spring: New Belgium Brewing’s Fruit Smash; SLO Brew’s Cali-Squeeze; Braxton Brewing Company’s VIVE Fruit Punch; Cape May Hard Seltzer; New Realm Brewing’s AlphaWater; Molson Coors Vizzy; and Bud Light Seltzer’s Limited Edition “Out of Office” flavours. Will the Hard Seltzers category ever reach a saturation point? Eventually, we think so but currently there are no signs of slowing as everyone is jumping into this high growth segment.
Big brewers news
07/05/2021
Molson Coors signed new partnerships to extend beyond beer, as part of its Beverage Hub. The new partnerships are with Jimmy’s Iced Coffee, Lixir Drinks, Tarquin’s Gin and Twin Fin Rum. Based on the terms of the partnership, the company will be granted exclusive distribution rights for the Southwestern Distillery brands, across established on-trade and off-trade networks in Western Europe.
Heineken South Africa appoints two new management team members: Joy van Heerden, as digital and technology director and Vinicius Genio de Almeida as supply chain director and Operating Company senior leadership member.
Carlsberg Group released their Q1 Trading Results with Total Volumes up +11.5%, including very strong results in craft, speciality, and non-alcohol products. The company also announced a second quarterly share buyback programme of 1B Danish Krone.
AB InBev and The Wine Group launch “101 North” wine across the US as a popularly priced brand inspired by its California and the iconic US Highway 101 origin. The brand celebrates the spirit of adventure and discovery and is available in Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Grigio and Moscato.
AB InBev is lauching Mike’s Hard Seltzer across Belgium, France, the Netherlands and Germany, ahead of the key summer selling months (July and August). The products are 5% abv and available in Lime, Raspberry and Black Cherry flavours as well as Passionfruit for Germany.
According to analysts and a recent Rabobank report, Hard Seltzers are going to continue to grow in the USA for a number of factors: highly approachable alcohol level, the number of flavour innovations, appeal to drinkers that switch between categories, and popularity as a new drink for the new generation. Further, the presence of big brands pushes on-point launches and marketing, and connections with retailers who are recognizing the importance of the category. Big brewers are powering into the category and Rabobank estimates the category represents 10% of the total beer market, with $4B in sales, annual growth at 50% and a 20% share of the beer sales over the next five years.
Brewers are faced with beer shortages in the UK after the boom in demand generated by lockdown restrictions easing and accompanies by improving weather. Sales were 113% higher on April 12th, 2021 vs the same day in 2019, based upon the latest comparable data illustrating the turnaround from the pandemic. Pubs were scrambling to secure beer supplies, especially craft brewers and premium lagers, even though only 40% of the UK’s pubs have the capacity to serve people outdoors.
Beers on Dutch market are getting more expensive than before the lockdown. All major brands are increasing prices: AB InBev by 3.5%, Bavaria by 3.5%, Grolsch (Asahi) by 4%, the biggest increases in the last 8 years.
MolsonCoors invests in brewery founded by gang rivals.28/04/2021
The company is investing in the Tru Colors brewery, founded by a tech entrepreneur and rival gang leaders from Bloods, Crips and GD. The company investment will be focused on distribution strategy, brand positioning, supplier relationships, marketing, and product development. The company considers the investment strategic and a step to foster a more inclusive and diverse culture.
Brewers around the world are adapting to lockdowns and supporting vaccination campaigns.28/04/2021
Asahi has invested more than £1M to support the on trade with in-outlet materials, branded parasols, barriers, takeaway cups and mobile bars. While reopening UK pubs, Heineken is offering pint and a haircut, to fix two COVID-generated abstinences are. Molson Coors and Miller Lite team are supporting vaccinations with a limited-edition single sleeve T-shirt (customers being able to choose the right or the left shoulder bare).
Star Pubs & Bars confirms to re-open half of Scottish pubs network.28/04/2021
Star Pubs & Bars, the Heineken owned pub operator, announced a re-opening for half its 230 Scottish pubs with the rest remaining closed due to onerous restrictions. For the pubs that remain closed, the company is continuing rent reduction support until respective restrictions are fully lifted. By May 17th, the company will have invested some £5.7million in rent cuts to help Scottish pubs through the pandemic.
ABInBev craft breweries partner with Keep America Beautiful.28/04/2021
As part of Earth Day celebrations, AB InBev craft breweries are partnering with Keep America Beautiful on a number of different community cleanups and restoration initiatives across the US. The projects are funded by six individual $10,000 grants through the ABInBev foundation. The participating breweries are: 10 Barrel Brewing Co, Devils Backbone Brewing Co, Four Peaks Brewing Co, Goose Island Beer Co, Platform Beer Co, and Wicked Weed Brewing.
Heineken USA exclusive partner for UBS Arena.28/04/2021
Heineken USA signed an exclusivity partnership with UBS Arena, a last generation entertainment location of New York Islanders Hockey Club. According to the partnership, Heineken will be the exclusive marketing partner for beer, cider and hard seltzer.
Big brewers’ news23/04/2021
South African Brewery (SAB), part of AB InBev is replacing its broad-based black economic empowerment scheme SAB Zenzele, when the scheme reaches maturity in May 2021, with a new program ‘Zenzele Kabili’, opening up a R5.4B (USD 380M) opportunity in AB InBev shares.
AB InBev is nominating Vineet Sharma as the company’s VP of Marketing & New Business Development, South Asia Zone. Previously Mr. Sharma held the position of Trade Marketing Director, South Asia for the company. One of the key focus areas for Mr. Sharma will be shaping AB InBev’s strategy for growth in India.
MolsonCoors launches its first USDA certified organic beer, ‘Coors Pure’. The beer made with simple, quality ingredients is a light lager with a subtle malt sweetness along with low bitterness and a slight citrus hop notes. Early marketing is focused on active lifestyles, like running, where a 92 Calorie, No-Sugar organic beer can fit well with these active consumers. Coors Pure is available now nationwide in 12- and 24-packs of slim cans, as well as single 16 and 24-ounce cans.
Molson Coors nominates Julia M Brown as an independent director to join its Board of Director, for election at the company’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders during May 2021. Recently, Ms. Brown assumed the role of Chief Procurement Officer for Mars Wrigley, having experience across strategic sourcing, purchasing, co-manufacturing and logistics.
Heineken plans to invest $183M to expand its Ponta Grossa brewing plant in Brazil. The company plans the investment over a two-year period during 2021 and 2022 and focuses the investment their ability to brew their leading Heineken and Amstel brands. The investment will lead to increase beer production capability by 75%.
Carlsberg announced a share buy-back programme, as per the company’s recent announcement. The company will repurchase Class B shares with a value up to DKK 0.75B. The programme is taking place till April 23rd, 2021, during which a maximum of 10M Class B shares will be bought back.
Asahi’s CEO is positive toward growth for their the ‘Super Dry’ beer brand and believes their flagship ‘Super Dry” brand can break into the top 10 of global brews by 2030. The goal will be achievable through a focus on urban drinkers across Europe and China, according to the announcement.
Heineken ‘window tab’ serving – first in the world.13/04/2021
The rock singer Phil Etheridge poured a Heineken 0.0% for a stay-at-home worker, via a window service mobile bar mounted on a bucket truck. A great innovation to take beer to the consumer.
Carlsberg Myanmar to reduce production capacity12/04/2021
Carlsberg Myanmar is reducing its beer capacity due to demand reduction, on the back of escalating tumult in Myanmar. The company has no contract with the new authorities controlling the troubled nation.
Carlsberg Malaysia apprenticeship programme12/04/2021
Carlsberg Malaysia launched its Apprenticeship Programme to offer job opportunities to fresh graduates, in a six-month programme, with placement in Marketing, Finance, Corporate Affairs or Supply Chain functions.
Stockday, a B2B on-line commerce platform, extends its service10/04/2021
The B2B on-line trading platform, Stockday, developed by Heineken Romania, extends and diversifies its offering by including the portfolio of Coca-Cola Romania. The expansion is the result of a new partnership between the two companies, which involves the sale by Heineken Romania of 50% of Stockday to Coca Cola.
MolsonCoors craft division launches a tank room at Denver’s McGregor square10/04/2021
AC Golden, Molson Coors craft division, is launching the AC Golden Tank Room, a standalone retail concept, located at McGregor square in Denver’s Lower Downtown area. The tank room features five cooper-clad tanks to store the tasty beer and will open in May.
AB InBev is launching a peach flavoured beer in Thailand.09/04/2021
The company is launching in Thailand this April, the first and only wheat beer with a peach variant under the Hoegaarden brand. The beer is exclusive to the country and aligns with increasing trends for fruity beer.
Heineken US releases Dos Equis variety pack09/04/2021
Heineken US has launched new flavours for the Dos Equis brand in March 2021 in Southern California, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Illinois, Oklahoma and Colorado. The company is launching 4 new flavours: pineapple, watermelon, cucumber, lime & salt, with 4.2% abv.
BEERMKR is the new big thing in home brewing09/04/2021
BEERMKR is the new big thing in home brewing. The Boulder, CO (USA) based device is a consumer friendly, all-in-one brewing machine, that allows anyone, regardless of experience, to brew at home. The result is a 12-pack of craft quality beer in 7-10 days which comes from a prepackaged kit with everything needed to make great beer. The device is fully controlled via an app, through a Wi-Fi connected system which automates critical heating and cooling processes during the brewing and fermentation steps. The contained system drastically reduces the chance of contamination during the process and is yet easy to use for even beginning brewers.
PepsiCo is launching a new line of non-alcoholic cocktail mixers09/04/2021
PepsiCo is launching a new line of non-alcoholic cocktail mixers called Neon Zebra as drinking at home surges demand in drink innovations. The new launch is designed to appeal to younger consumers spending more time at home and who want to avoid complicated cocktail recipes or complex ingredient mixes. The PepsiCo beverages are made with real juice and no artificial sweeteners and come in four options: Margarita Mix, Strawberry Daiquiri Mix, Mojito Mix, and Whiskey Sour Mix.
Diageo is planning to spend $80M09/04/2021
Diageo is planning to spend $80M in order to boost ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages in the US. The investment represents the installation of two can-filling lines at a new plant in Plainfield, Illinois, to boost production of the fast-growing RTD beverage market. The plant will produce more than 25M cases of ready-to-drink beverages every year, such as Smirnoff seltzers, along with spirit-based cocktails from Crown Royal and Ketel One Botanicals.
Heineken is searching for robotic solutions09/04/2021
Heineken is searching for robotic solutions in its breweries to create safer workplaces for employees and enabling a more flexible organization overall. As part of SMITZH Programme (Smart Manufacturing Industrial Application in South Holland), the company and RoboHouse fieldlab, with support from the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), have developed a solution on the basis of flexible manufacturing and automated handling of unexpected situations (e.g., retrieving fallen bottles from a conveyor belt).
Molson Coors signed the first all-encompassing beverage deal09/04/2021
Molson Coors signed the first all-encompassing beverage deal in the history of Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), with the LA Sparks. The partnership gives the company the platform to promote over 100 alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands through in-arena signage, social media and sweepstakes/gamification.
AB InBev is investing $180M09/04/2021
AB InBev is investing $180M in a new brewery plant in Mozambique with a capacity of 2.4M hectoliters per year, with a potential to expand to 6.7M hL. The site is located 30m from the capital city of Maputo, in the city Marracuene, and is the most modern factory in the country. The site will employ 200 permanent workers.
Heineken USA enables 1:1 relationships with consumers28/03/2021
Heineken overcame third party data challenges by launching a data strategy to bolster consumer engagement and drive business growth. The company adopted the BlueConic customer data platform upon which company collected consumer data is clustered into tiers – bronze, silver, gold. The Gold Tier represents the consumer group Heineken will develop a direct relationship through marketing efforts.
Molson Coors to launch Topo Chico hard seltzer27/03/2021
The Topo Chico hard seltzer launch is building on the popularity of the mineral water with the same name and originating from Monterrey (Mexico) which Coca Cola introduced into the USA in 2017. An alcohol version launched in partnership with Molson Coors, has four flavours: exotic pineapple, strawberry guava, tangy lemon lime, tropical mango, all with 4.7%abv.
Viking Malt has received the Platinum Medal in the latest EcoVadis Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) rating.26/03/2021
Viking Malt has received the Platinum Medal in the latest EcoVadis Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) rating. This performance placed the company in the top 1% of all companies evaluated by EcoVadis and in the top 2% in the category of Manufacture of Malt liquors and The Malt industry.
Holland Malt with a goal to be source 100% sustainable barley by 2025.26/03/2021
Holland Malt as a member of the Sustainable Agriculture Initiative (SAI) Platform (established in 2002) continues to accelerate the widespread adoption of sustainable agriculture practices with a goal to be source 100% sustainable barley by 2025.
Malteurop’s malthouse at Aire-sur-la-Lys26/03/2021
Malteurop’s malthouse at Aire-sur-la-Lys has been certified for the production of organic malt as the configuration of the malthouse allows for production of small batches using organic barley from growers in the French Champagne Region. In conjunction, the company can offer customers full traceability for malt from grain to glass.
Carlsberg Group is expanding its sustainability linked bonus scheme26/03/2021
Carlsberg Group is expanding its sustainability linked bonus scheme for its senior executives with corporate social responsibility (CSR) and environmental issues taking a larger slice of the annual bonuses for those executives in the program.
Carlsberg Russia26/03/2021
Carlsberg Russia is collaborating 70 of their malting barley farmers to trial and implement barley varieties developed by the Carlsberg lab with a goal to be more sustainable than current varieties. Higher yield (+10%), and lower fertilizer usage are key attributes for these new varieties.
Molson Coors and Heineken are both launching (separately) a beer bottle produced with a 90% lower carbon footprint.26/03/2021
Molson Coors and Heineken are both launching (separately) a beer bottle produced with a 90% lower carbon footprint. The beer bottle supplier for both brewers is Encirc, who utilizes up to 100% recycled or used glass (increased from 75%) and also deploys renewable energy and biofuels in their bottle manufacturing. The bottles will be introduced throughout the UK during 2021.
Heineken Sri Lanka has advanced inclusion and diversity26/03/2021
Heineken Sri Lanka has advanced inclusion and diversity, through the hiring of Mayanthi Wickremetilleke as Director Corporate Affairs and a member of the Senior Management Team. Ms. Wickremetilleke was the former Country Lead Sustainable Business and Communication at Unilever and holds 13+ years’ experience in the FMCG industry.
AB InBev India champions diversity and inclusion initiatives26/03/2021
AB InBev India champions diversity and inclusion initiatives through new people policies, including unlimited wellness leaves, and flexible four-week paternity leave. With such initiatives, the company is committed to an inclusive culture for the benefit of all employees.
AB InBev turns beer green via Renewable Energy Certificates26/03/2021
To celebrate St Patrick’s Day, AB InBev pledged Renewable Energy Certificates which equates to the estimated electricity requirement for their beer production across the USA for one day. This was part of the company initiative to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in a sustainable way this year.
A new Coalition for Cannabis Policy, Education and Regulation26/03/2021
A new Coalition for Cannabis Policy, Education and Regulation was launched in the USA in early March 2021 and formed by national corporations including tobacco and alcohol firms, with the aim of influencing policy and potentially shaping the first federal cannabis regulations. The Coalition areas include public safety concerns, youth prevention, minority access to the industry, and national standards on product testing and pesticides.
Canopy Growth has launched in the US, the company’s first CBD infused sparkling water26/03/2021
Canopy Growth, owned by Constellation Brands, has launched in the US, the company’s first CBD infused sparkling water, Quatreau. The drink is available in four flavours – cucumber & mint, passionfruit & guava, ginger & lime, blueberry & acal, and is going to be distributed via Canopy’s e-commerce hub. This is an early entrant into a CBD infused beverage sector which is expected to grow exponentially.
Diageo acquires Far West Spirits26/03/2021
Diageo acquires Far West Spirits, the owner of the Lone River Ranch Water hard seltzer brand. The deal was announced in early March, without financial terms, and the deal was funded entirely with cash. The owner of Lone Rover maintained a minority stake and will continue to oversee the day-to-day operations as the CEO of the company.
Sapporo Holdings is considering a brewery construction in the USA26/03/2021
Sapporo Holdings is considering a brewery construction in the USA by the end of 2024 which is a strategic initiative intended to increase market share and cut costs. North America is the company’s largest overseas market for the Japanese brewer. A physical presence in America will allow the company to cut transport costs and penetrate the estimated $116bn US beer market.
Heineken is replacing its current CFO26/03/2021
Heineken is replacing its current CFO, Laurence Debroux, with Harold van den Broek, in June 2021. Mr van den Broek will be appointed as member of the Executive Board and CFO at the company’s Annual General Meeting, for a period of four years. Mr van den Broek is currently President Hygiene at Reckitt Benckiser (RB), previously being the CFO of RB Hygiene division.
Heineken is bringing the Pure Pirana hard seltzer brand to Europe26/03/2021
Heineken is bringing the Pure Pirana hard seltzer brand to Europe with an introduction in Austria, Ireland, Netherlands, Portugal and Spain, planned for Summer’21. This hard seltzer (ready to drink, RTD) has a 4.5% abv and is produced with carbonated mineral water and natural flavourings.
Heineken USA is launching a new brand26/03/2021
Heineken USA is launching a new brand, Tecate Alta, as a full flavoured Mexican beer, with only 85 calories, 2.4 grams of carbs and 4% abv. The new beer brand is available from March 2021 across Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico and South Texas.
Molson Coors teamed up with JP Whiskey26/03/2021
The Molson Coors teamed up with JP Whiskey to create Molson Common Bond, an amber lager featuring whiskey-aged hops that impart complex flavours into the beer. This new release is now available across Canada for a limited period of time.
AB InBev is launching the Golden Goo-Beer-Lee Crème Stout26/03/2021
AB InBev is launching the Golden Goo-Beer-Lee Crème Stout in celebration of Cadbury’s Crème Egg 50th anniversary. The beer is a blend of malted barley oats, wheat and milk sugar, brewed with cacao nibs and vanilla beans. The limited-edition beer will be available in the UK via the online store for Goose Island Brewery (member of ABInBev craft network).
AB InBev is introducing its Budweiser brand in Nepal26/03/2021
AB InBev is introducing its Budweiser brand in Nepal, with the aim to expand its product line-up and cater to evolving consumer preferences. This follows the introduction of Foster’s beer in the country during 2020.
Heineken12/03/2021
The Amsterdam Court of Appeal accepted the jurisdiction in an ongoing litigation against Heineken’s Greek subsidiary Athenian Breweries (AB), brought forward by the Macedonia Thrace Brewery (MTD), in which MTD is pursuing claims for damages against the company related to AB’s alleged abuse of its dominant position.
Heineken and Coca Cola System has reached an agreement to redesign their longstanding distribution partnership in Brazil. The new partnership is to commence in mid 2021 and continue until 2026. As part of the agreement, the parties will begin a smooth transition of the Heineken and Amstel brands to Heineken Brazil’s distribution network. Also, according to the agreement Coca Cola will be able to produce and distribute alcoholic beverages, while Heineken will be able to explore opportunities into non-alcoholic beverages.
Molson Coors12/03/2021
Molson Coors divests its Indian business to Inbrew Holdings, a Singapore based investment group. Based on the reached agreement, Inbrew will acquire Saha and Bhankharpur breweries and the license rights for a number of well know Molson Coors brands.
Carlsberg12/03/2021
Carlsberg Malaysia is focusing on e-commerce and retail in order to revamp its sales efforts, following the Covid-19 impact including social control measures implemented by the Malaysian Government (most recent ones being implemented in January 2021). The e-commerce focus is justified by a 2.5 times volume growth registered during 2020, and the company is putting more emphasis in e-commerce platforms.
Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company CEO is calling on the UK government to extend the current financial support measures implemented during the pandemic. Further, once the lockdown measures are lifted, current VAT rates applied to food and drinks would apply to beer. Other proposed measures are focused on rebalancing the alcohol duty regime toward lower strength products. All these efforts are aimed to counter the pandemic impact on the beer and pub industry.
AB InBev12/03/2021
AB InBev is to invest $160MM in two major breweries in the UK. The Magor Brewery in South Welsh is being upgraded with a new bottling line, and other efficiency improvements, including an energy conserving wort cooler. The Samlesbury Brewery in Lancashire will add a new canning line as well.
AB InBev’s North America Zone president, Michel Doukeris, appears to have emerged as the front runner to succeed CEO Carlos Brito in leading the company. The board intends to announce the leadership change before the company annual general meeting in April. Mr Doukeris joined the company in 1996 and rose to lead its business in China, after which he led the Asia Pacific business, before becoming the global chief of sales.
Smirnoff pairing with influencer to host virtual workouts.05/03/2021
Smirnoff Vodka is celebrating Women’s History Month by sponsoring a series of virtual workouts following by a happy-hour discussion with several celebrities. The company partnered with fitness studio SideBarre, a black women-owned small business (Washington DC), to offer the on-line series starting with March 3rd. Part of the campaign, the company is pledging $50,000 to Black Girl Ventures, a charity group that provides access to capital to black and brown women business founders.
New beverages’ launches in 2021.04/03/2021
2021 sees a lot of seltzer drinks coming to the market such Vizzy new variety pack, Truly Citrus Squeeze (hard seltzer), CBD seltzers, Mike’s lemonade seltzer as well as functional and healthy drinks – fruits & vegetables blends (Tampico Beverages), functional coffees (Laird Superfood), beauty and detox shots (So Good So You, wellness brand), drinks to hydrate during sleep (Hydrant wellness brand), and unsweetened lemonade.
Carlsberg Malaysia helped 2,000 families01/03/2021
Carlsberg provided RM500 worth of food supplies to 2,000 families, whose livelihood was impacted by covid-19 and flash floods. Families belong to B40 income group, orphans, single parent families, families with disabled members. This is the second Covid-19 relief effort by Carlsberg Malaysia to support Malaysian families.
Carlsberg finds unethical practices, at its Indian arm.27/02/2021
Internal Carlsberg investigation, that took place between 2019 and 2020, found proof of unethical practiced and group policy violations at its Indian arm. The breach was in the period up to 2018, as the company already said in its latest global annual report. The company also appointed a dedicated compliance officer to oversee compliance at Carlsberg India.
Heineken UK unveiled the launch of Benefits Bar and Pub Social.26/02/2021
Heineken UK has launched to virtual spaces to engage with pub owners. One is the Benefits Bar – a network addressed to Star Pubs & Bars network owner, focused on insights, tools, advice and support that gives tips and advice on a range of benefits that make running a pub easier and more profitable. The second is Pub Social – a Facebook group open to all operators, where they can share experience and advice with peers as well as access support from Heineken and Star Pubs & Bars.
German brewers forced to throw away beer.26/02/2021
German brewers were forced to throw away unsold beer and called on the government to provide financial aid, due to coronavirus reduction in demand. German pubs, hotels and restaurant have been closed since November, in the country’s second lockdown.
Heineken’s latest sustainable report26/02/2021
Heineken’s latest sustainable report outlined a number of successes: 51% reduction in carbon emissions across its breweries since 2008; 22% renewable energy usage in production facilities; reduced average carbon emissions from fridges by over 55% vs 2010; 33% decrease in water consumption since 2008; and 58% of raw agricultural materials sourced sustainably.
Carlsberg – Sustainability News26/02/2021
Carlsberg’s 2020 sustainability report outlines how progress is being made towards its ZERO target. Between 2015 – 2019, carbon emissions were cut 7% across the total value chain, and 12% within brewery operations. By the end of 2020, eight breweries also achieved carbon neutrality.
Carlsberg Foundation granted DKK 19.5million for a project to develop climate tolerant plants with higher yields and better nutritional value. The project is run by Carlsberg Research Laboratory and Semper Ardens, together with several other partners.
Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Co is trying glass bottles with up to 90% lower carbon impact. The bottle is a cooperation with glass bottle supplier Encirc that uses 100% biofuel and increases recycled content of bottles to 100% while maintaining bottle quality. The supplier manufactured 1M bottles for the company.
AB InBev – Sustainability News26/02/2021
AB InBev announced a number of sustainable efforts: low carbon cans, produced in cooperation with Rio Tinto and released in the coming months; development of 1000 electrical trucks and vans, in cooperation with Fabrica Nacional de Mobilidades, on the road by 2023; CDP recognized ABInBev as 2020 Supplier Engagement Leader, for the work done in cooperation with its suppliers to tackle climate change.
AB InBev replaced its $9bn revolving credit facility with a new $10.1bn sustainability linked credit facility. This is the first time such a credit facility was utilized by the beverage industry and incorporates a pricing structure that incentives improvements in four areas that are linked to the company 2025 sustainability goals: water efficiencies in breweries, increasing recycled PET content, increased renewable electricity sources, and reduced GHG emissions.
Heineken News26/02/2021
Heineken is launching Dos Equis Ranch Water Hard Seltzer, to be on the shelves by mid-April. The product, with 4.5% abv and 180 calories, will be sold as single and 12 packs. Further crowding of the hard seltzer shelf space will result.
Heineken’s CEO believes EU on-premise activity will not return to pre-pandemic levels and potentially 10-15% could disappear more permanently. The forecast includes pre-pandemic operating margins will not be attained until 2023.
Molson Coors’ Atwater Brewery26/02/2021
Molson Coors’ Atwater Brewery is launching Light Citrus Blond, a wheat ale with delicate notes of citrus, just in time for St Patrick’s Day. This latest release is to complement the brewery flagship Dirty Blond beer, in the wheat ale category and yet further expansion of the Company’s beverage portfolio.
Carlsberg CEO26/02/2021
Carlsberg CEO believe that this summer will bring a surge in demand, similar to the boom seen a century ago after the Spanish flew lockdowns were lifted. This is based on the assumption that people want to go out and will feel more confident as the advancement vaccinations takes hold.
AB InBev News26/02/2021
AB InBev is suing Constellation Brands for using the Corona brand name on a non-beer product, Corona Hard Seltzer, seen as a breach of agreement between the two companies regarding the Corona Brand. Constellation Brands launched the hard seltzer at the beginning of 2020.
AB InBev announced that it will brew Stella Artois in the US, by autumn 2021, avoiding shipping the beer from Europe. The production shift will cost $296million and is is part of the $1bn investment plans for US production facilities announced earlier.
Molson Coors prepared to commemorate one year since the mass shooting.25/02/2021
The company did not hold any public event, but prepared internally to commemorate the victims of the mass shooting. In a quite corner of the Milwaukee campus, a memorial offers the possibility to pause on the tragedy that took place a year ago. Also, employees were given the day off if they chose to do so, with moments of silent being held at the beginning of each shift.
AB InBev is to work with Epsilon on data insight.13/02/2021
AB InBev has selected Epsilon, a Publicis Groupe company, to manage data insights which will help the world’s #1 brewer to get closer to its consumers through data analytics from a media and marketing approach. The analytics focus less on channel-oriented insight and more on an audience-oriented approach, shifting toward who the company wants to talk to and where these people are located. Through data and insights, the company expects to better fit the needs of beer consumers.
Molson Coors to expand its cans sourcing to combat shortage.12/02/2021
Molson Coors is working closely with suppliers to source additional cans from all around the world in order to overcome the can shortage in the US. The efforts are covering four continents and include the construction of new can production lines.
Molson Coors 2020 sales hit by on-trade pandemic related restrictions.11/02/2021
Molson Coors 2020 sales volumes decreased by -8.9% mainly because of Covid-19 restrictions and lockdowns that strongly impacted on-trade sales as well as coronavirus related costs. The volume results were less positive for the European operations (-17.9%) than in North America (-6.0%), making a recovery in 2021 even more challenging.
Heineken launches a bottle return initiative.11/02/2021
Heineken Carib Brewery launched a weekend bottle return initiative to reward consumers for their loyalty in the form of at home consumption. Consumers that return bottles in cartons will receive $7.20 for each Heineken case ($0.30 for each bottle).
Heineken to cut 10% of global workforce.10/02/2021
Heineken announced that is going to cut 8,000 jobs globally (including 300 from the Amsterdam HQ) from the total 85,000 current workforce. This is due to the effects of the pandemic, that cut sales by -17% (20M hL reduction) and profit by -109%; the company registering a net loss of €204million ($247million).
The Netherlands to introduce a 15-cent deposit on drinks cans in 2023.08/02/2021
The Netherlands Infrastructure Ministry announced the introduction of 15-cent(€) deposit on drink cans ,starting in 2023 and aimed to reduce the number of discarded cans. Manufacturers and supermarkets have two years to implement a process for can returns and payment of the deposit. It is estimated ~150M cans are discarded each year.
Hexo Corp appoints general manager for its US operations.08/02/2021
Hexo Corp, the Canadian cannabis-based beverages company which has a JV relationship with Molson Coors, announced the appointment effective immediately of Charles Bowman as General Manager, US operations. Mr. Bowman has an extensive experience in commercial growth and operations, both being seen as instrumental as the company continues to expand its footprint in the US.
Heineken Malaysia secured three wins at Putra Brand Awards 202005/02/2021
With 2020 prizes Heineken Malaysia has 33 awards at Putra Brand Award since 2010. 2020 prizes are: Platinum Award for Tiger Beer, Gold award for Heineken Malysia, Silver award for Guinness.
AB InBev chooses Gurobi, end-to-end supply chain planning optimisation tool.05/02/2021
Gurobi Optimisation announced that AB InBev selected their Optimiser program as the mathematical optimization solver that will power its new global, integrated supply chain planning system.
Kirin to pull out of Myanmar.05/02/2021
Kirin Holdings is to pull out of its Myanmar JV with Myanmar Economic Holdings Public Company Limited which is believed to have links to the local military. Kirin entered Myanmar six years ago, similar to many companies eyeing the growth potential in the country (beer grew 19% in 2019). Pressure to exit increased as the military took power and civilian leadership was being held by the military.
Carlsberg 2020 results benefited from off-trade volume increases.05/02/2021
Carlsberg released its 2020 results which show better than expected results during the tough 2020 period. Key was an offset from the off-premise trade against the Covid-19 impact to the on-premise consumption lost through lockdowns and social distancing guidelines. Overall, organic revenues were down by -8.4%, volumes -3.8% and organic profit down by -3.1%. These results give some hope to the beginning of a rebound in 2021 as on-premise consumers return (at some stage).
Heineken Mexico to produce carbon dioxide to transport corona vaccines.01/02/2021
As carbon dioxide (CO2) is a key byproduct in the production of beer, and CO2 ice is used to cool Covid vaccines, there is an opportunity for Heineken Mexico to support the cold transportation of the different vaccines in Mexico. Heineken is planning to supply 50 tons of CO2 in support of the vaccination roll-out throughout Mexico.
South Africa lifts alcohol ban.01/02/2021
South African Government and President eased some of the Covid-19 related restrictions, including the lifting the ban on alcohol sales and reopening of beaches & limited religious gathering. Retail outlets can now sell alcohol between 10am and 6pm Monday to Thursday, with licensed outlets being able to serve alcohol on-site from 10am till 10pm, at which time they must close.
AB InBev is launching the Digital Packaging Challenge.30/01/2021
During the CPI Industry Day, AB InBev is inviting SMEs, entrepreneurs and technology providers to deliver a 10-minute creative solution to address the following packaging solution: applying sensors or digital technology to returnable crates. The solution has to offer the consumer with easier access to returnable glasses bottles and the ability to return these in an efficient manner, whilst also providing tracking functionality.
Heineken and Carlsberg to reconsider UK beer prices once Covid restrictions are lifted.30/01/2021
Britons will pay more for their beers, (potentially by 18p per pint), as companies, like Heineken, plan to increase prices by 4.5% for their lagers and ales in April this year. Carlsberg is presumably considering a price review as well.
Quicksilver Scientific to provide the delivery technology for Molson Coors cannabis drinks.29/01/2021
Quicksilver Scientific is cooperating with Truss CBD USA (the jointventure between Molson Coors and Hexo Cannabis) to provide patent-pending nanoemulsion delivery technology for the use in the non-alcoholic, hemp-derived CBD beverages, the brand Verywell. Quicksilver Scientific will apply its extensive knowledge to develop nutraceutical protocols to contribute to the Verywell’s three unique formulations.
Big Brewers’ news29/01/2021
The Vietnam government approved the merger between AB InBev and SAB Beer opening the way for the merged company to operate with higher productivity, be more competitive and offer higher quality beer. Vietnam is Asia’s biggest beer consumer per capita, with beer sales growing ~10% per year on average between 2010 and 2020.
AB InBev India launched Beck’s Ice Premium, the industry first-ever super mild beer, containing 3.5% abv. This initiative is part of the company’s four Global Smart Drinking Goals, being Goal #3, where drinkers integrate no-alcohol beers and beers with 3.5% abv or lower into their current drink choices. The other goals include reducing the harmful use of alcohol, investing US$1bn globally to influence social norms and promoting behaviours to reduce harmful use of alcohol, as well as placing guidance labels on products and increasing alcohol health literacy.
Heineken Hungary received a HUF270million grant to upgrade its Sopron brewery. The company is to invest HUF 540million in the brewery and preserve 465 workplaces. The company also intends to buy 85% of its raw materials from local producers.
Heineken bought 1.9M ordinary shares in the Champion Brewery Plc (Nigeria), which increases its stake in the company to 84.7%, with the direct intention to expands its control of the Nigerian brewing industry. Heineken owns 37.94% (equivalent of 3.03M shares) in Nigerian Breweries Plc.
Heineken South Africa is planning to cut 70 jobs and cease new investment due to the impact of the 3rd alcohol ban in the country related to the pandemic. Approximately 30% of local breweries (craft) are reported to have permanently closed their doors or abandoned any planned future investment in their businesses. This is clear example of the impact resulting from the pandemic and the associated lockdowns – in this the severe action to ban alcohol sales outright.
MolsonCoors plans to sell its Indian business, which includes the beer brand Thunderbolt. The company intends to leave the Indian market, due to decrease in sales triggered by Covid-19 situation and alcohol policy inconsistency in states such as Bihar.
MolsonCoors launched its first cannabis-based drink in the US, via its JV with Hexo Canada. The JV, called Truss CBD USA, launched a range of CBD-infused sparkling waters under the name of Verywell. The waters are made in three flavours – grapefruit tarragon (Focus), strawberry hibiscus (Mind & Body), blueberry lavender (Unwind). Each product contains 20mg of hemp-derived, non-psychoactive CBD and adaptagens. This is futher evidence of MolsonCoors’ transformation to a beverage company focused on much more than beer alone.
Carlsberg is investing in communities with Carlsberg Malaysia pledging RM2million in food and education, via its ‘Celebrate Prosperity, Cheer for Tomorrow’ food-aid Organization. In addition, an allocation of RM1million in bursaries for 333 Malaysian tertiary students, via the Carlsberg Huaong Chinese Education Fund, is being made.
Suntory launched a sparkling malt and hops beverage containing 0.0% alcohol, no sugar, no artificial flavour, and no artificial sweeteners which is called ‘All-Free’. The company created in this product a craftmanship crisp beer aroma, from quality ingredients, including two-row barley malt and aroma hops, along with the application of a production method that removes the fermentation process with a detrimental taste impact.
Kirin Holdings is to invest $30M in an Indian craft beer producer, B9 Beverages. Even though the craft beer company is one of the smallest players in the Indian beer market, it does have 5-10% of beer market share in densely populated cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
2021 St Maarten Heineken Regatta to be cancelled.29/01/2021
The St Maarten Council of Minister decided to cancel the March 2021: the 41st St Maarten Heineken Regatta after months of careful preparation. Citing health safety measures surrounding the Covid-19 situation, it was deemed the event would not take place. Organisers are already preparing for the 2022 event, to take place from March 3rd to 6th.
2021 Super Bowl ads landscape looks very different.29/01/2021
2021 Super Bowl ads, that will be run on the big game held February 7th, will not include big brands such as Budweiser, Pepsi and Coca Cola which have been mainstays for years. However, there will be no shortage of creativity as brands like Chipotle, Mercari, Vroom etc. Appears a changing of the guard is under way for media advertising for one of the largest audience events of the year.
Molson Coors unconventional commercial ahead of Super Bowl.27/01/2021
As the company is not allowed to run Super Bowl commercials due to an exclusivity between NFL and its competitor AB InBev, Molson Coors has decided on a new approach to generate buzz ahead of the Super Bowl. The campaign, titled “Inception”, is applying the science of Targeted Dream Incubation to get people to dream its big game ad during the lead up to gameday. The company partnered with a psychologist (Deirdre Barret) to develop a film that uses audio-visual stimuli intended to generate particular images and sensations in the viewer’s subconscious. The viewers also listen to an eight-hour soundscape throughout the night’s sleep, that will ostensibly trigger a version of the ad.
Miller Lite production to start in Nicaragua.25/01/2021
Molson Coors announced starting the production of Miller Lite in Nicaragua through a production agreement with Grupo Compania Cervecera de Nicaragua. The beer is already available in the country as of the second week of January 2021.
Budweiser will not advertise during Super Bowl games.25/01/2021
For the first time in 37 years, Budweiser will not run commercials during the Super Bowl. AB InBev, the owner of Budweiser, will use the marketing dollars to support Covid-19 vaccine awareness and access (as the current vaccination campaign is falling short of the set targets by the federal government). Also, the company will run Super Bowl ad digitally, in the week leading up to the Super Bowl event. The ad will focus on resilient Americans during the Covid-19 pandemic.
SAB suspends 550 temporary workers.25/01/2021
The South African Breweries (SAB) is suspending 550 temporary contract workers as it looks at all options to mitigate the impacts from the nation’s third alcohol ban during the pandemic. The concerned workers are predominately in positions in supply and logistics.
Carlsberg celebrates Chinese New Year with new colourful packaging23/01/2021
To celebrate the Chinese New Year, Carlsberg created a limited-edition packaging, designed by the contemporary artist Zhang Guangyu, with a hope of smooth recovery in 2021. The specially created packaging is represented by a colourful piece of art, under the motto ‘2021, springing back to life’.
Top 50 listing of companies using blockchain technology.20/01/2021
101 Blockchain, a renowned organisation in the field of blockchain, published information on the Top 50 companies involved with blockchain technology. The lists are covering several fields from banking and finance to energy, real estate, supply chain, insurance, trade, IoT, travel, and healthcare. Companies on the list include DHL Express, Walmart, Unilever, AB InBev, Siemens, Ford, BBVA, and AIG.
Molson Coors sells its staff shop building19/01/2021
Molson Coors is selling its staff shop building for £800,000 after launching its new on-line direct to consumer shop, Revl. The company is also selling a large warehouse next to Riviera Travel, as it plans to move to a new location. The new warehouse will store products in preparation for delivery to consumers.
The Beer Brands Report 202119/01/2021
Drinks International is presenting the 2020 survey results from 106 bars around the world to assess what premium brands
sell best and what’s trending at carefully selected high-end hotel bars. The report found a greater focus in premium hotels on lighter lager styles of beers, over stouts and real ale, with Guinness being the exception. There are a large number of well-know, global brands listed on the Top 10 list. With the pandemic eliminating a significant amount of hotel traffic, it will be interesting to see watch the developing trends during the recovery.
19/01/2021
South African Breweries (SAB), a subsidiary of AB InBev, announced that it would challenge the constitutionality of the alcohol ban (the 3rd such ban during the pandemic) in South Africa, by addressing the matter to country’s court. According to the papers, SAB sees this action “as the last resort available” to support temporary and strict alcohol regulations, not outright prohibition. As part of this action SAB has suspended a number of initiatives linked to the original terms of the ABI/SAB takeover.
Carlsberg to become the sponsor of the Ukraine national football team.16/01/2021
With a new contract, Lvivske brand, part of Carlsberg Group, replaces Persha Pryvatna Brovarnia (First Private Brewery) as the sponsor for the Ukraine national football team. The company begun already active preparations to marketing campaigns under the slogan “Millions of Ukrainians – one team”.
Feed14/01/2021
AB InBev entered into a strategic relationship with a consortium of institutional investors, that will acquire 49.9% minority stake in the company US based metal container plants for approximately USD $3bn. The consortium is consulted/led by Apollo Global Management, while AB InBev will retain operational control of the respective metal plants in order to ensure sufficient can supply over the course of the relationship. AB InBev also retains an option to re-acquire the minority stake at predetermined financial terms, following the fifth year of the agreement.
AB InBev South Africa (former SAB) suspends its commitments to retain workers and investments, as agreed as part of the merger between SABMiller and AB InBev, due to the South Africa Govt. decision to ban alcohol sales (3rd such ban during the past year) intended to curb the coronavirus spread.
Bud Light, an AB InBev brand, is launching a Hard Seltzer lemonade to help the company gain even more market share in this fast-growing sector and despite mounting competition from other players (including Coca Cola). With improved products characteristics (i.e., improved taste), the company hopes to make the drink stand out from the competition.
Molson Coors introduces ‘Three Fold’ Hard
Seltzer to the UK market as the seltzer craze expands globally. The new product
launch will be present in the shelves in March (already available on-line) with
three fruity varieties (red berries, tropical and citrus) and 4% alcohol. The product is naturally vegan and gluten
free.
Heineken Netherlands has a new marketing director, Ms Els
Dijukhuizen who was already working for the world #2 in various roles including including innovation, communication, digital marketing, brand design, business marketing, and an extensive background with global brands (including previous work with Coca Cola and Smiths Food Group). In her recent role as Director Global Heineken Communication and Innovation, she was one of the founders of the Heineken 0.0’s strong positioning.
Heineken
UK launches a workplace savings tool for its staff, in a partnership with savings provider, Cushon. The tool also allows Heineken UK staff to use a flexible benefits
platform where they can make more effective choices about their monthly
expenditures and actively manage their finances.
Heineken
UK
has completed a transaction to split the ownership of its Blade at home draught dispenser business with on-line beer company, Beerwulf. As per the terms of the transaction, all direct-to-consumer activity and small business-to-business activity will be managed by Beerwulf, while all business-to-business on-trade outreach will be managed by Heineken UK. The aim of the transaction is to increase Blade market share across all sectors and to attract more consumers to home enjoyment of great tasting draught beer.
Carlsberg China’s CEO, Andrew Khan, believes that people will switch to lower
alcohol strength drinks and also an overall tendency to drink less alcohol in
pursuit a healthier lifestyle. In response, companies must offer products with lower alcohol by volume (abv %) to counteract falling consumption volumes. Both trends can be already seen in 2020, with more and more brands introducing alcohol free drinks while alcohol sales volumes are declining slightly.
Diageo
has announced its release of a Gordon’s alcohol-free gin, made using the same
distilled botanicals as Gordon’s regular London Dry Gin. The company has
created this 0.0% version to provide consumers with the delicious taste of
Gordon’s while opting for a non-alcohol experience.
Constellation Brands has received approval from the US
Federal Trade Commission for its divestiture of a portion of Constellation
Brands’ wine and spirits portfolio to E & J Gallo Winery. The transaction reduces
the Constellation’s position in lower retail price products and focuses on the more
lucrative premium wine and spirits’ sector.
Premiumization
strategy might be plateau in a post Covid-19 pandemic global
economy where incomes are negatively impacted. Premiumization has been a major
trend across more expensive products, including beer; however, Unilever is
already seeing the impact as higher priced products represented only 10% of the
underlying growth rate in the third quarter of 2020. According to World Bank
expects global extreme poverty to increase in 2020 for the first time in two
decades.
A
US craft brewery tax break will become
permanent under the current Covid-19 Relief Bill passed by Congress whereby the
fermenters tax break, which applies to breweries, wineries and distillers is
extended. According to the provision first instituted in 2017, breweries that
produce less than 2M barrels per year are charged $3.50 per barrel in federal
excise taxes instead of $7.00, for the first 60,000 barrels. The tax break was
scheduled to terminate at the end of 2020.
More sustainability
initiatives, across the industry and beyond, to highlight:
v Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), a
global environmental non-profit project, has recognized Carlsberg Group
for leadership in corporate sustainability, by securing a place on its ‘A List’
for tackling climate change. The recognition is focused on Carlsberg’s actions
to cut emissions, mitigate climate risks and develop a low carbon economy. A
particularly notable project was Carlsberg’s cooperation with Netherlands based
solar desalination technology company, Desolenator, to convert saline water
into drinking water.
v Carlsberg’s India Mysury brewery was acknowledged as
a ‘Noteworthy Water Efficient Unit’ in ‘Within the Fence’ category at the
National Competition for Excellence in Water Management 2020, organized by the
Confederation of Indian Industry in partnership with Ministry of Jal Shakti,
Government of India. Carlsberg India continuously focuses on initiatives to
improve water optimization by implementing a fully collaborative approach
towards efficient water management system across its breweries.
v Carlsberg Foundation funded a DKK 0.46M
grant to Professor Kristian Lauta from the Centre for International Law and
Governance (CILG), to construct an open access database which captures all
references to sustainability among Danish companies. Included in the database
will be all forms of expertise involved in defining and addressing
sustainability within Danish companies.
v Heineken, Philips, Nouryon and Signify sign a
virtual PPA contract to buy renewable energy from a Finnish wind farm, for the
coming 10 years. The wind farm extends across Western Finland and is scheduled
to be completed in 2023.
v Asahi Group entered into a strategic
partnership with Embion Technologies, to create new products from the brewing by-products generated
by the company. Embion will provide technology and knowhow to process biomass
and to derive customized, bioactive super-extracts from plant and microbial
biomass.
v EverGrain, a sustainable ingredients company,
and a company backed also by AB InBev, has been launched. The new
company is using proprietary processes to realise the full potential of barley,
with a commitment to sustainability through circularity. The focus is on
revolutionizing the delivery of barley-based food ingredients, particularly highly
nutritious protein ‘EverPro’ and fiber-centric ‘EverVita’ products. These
ingredients target plant-based beverages, baked goods, protein bars, pasta and
snacks.
v Muntons Plc partnered with AMP
Clean Energy to reduce carbon emissions by 23,545 tons per year. Through the
project, the company will install a 14MW biomass boiler at its’ Stowmarket site,
which according to Group Managing Director, Mark Tyldesley, aligns with “the
headline Science Based Target for manufacturing is to reduce carbon emissions
by 87% by 2050“.
v Fertilizer plant Yara,
plans to fully electrify its ammonia plant in Porsgrunn (Norway), with the
potential to cut 0.8M tons of carbon emissions per annum (equivalent of
emissions from 300,000 passenger cars). The plant expects to produce 0.5M tons
of green ammonia per annum. Ammonia is the most promising hydrogen carrier and
zero carbon shipping fuel.
v University of Idaho College of Agriculture and Life
Science students are exploring ways to use hops waste for different
applications, including textile applications. This is a partnership with Yakima
Chief and has already produced paper from hops bines. The team is now
investigating how to turn the bines into textile fibers to be able to create
clothing items.
v edie Sustainability Leaders Awards
(UK) will take
place virtually on February 3rd, 2021 with several category awards
being presented for sustainability, CSR and energy leadership. From a brewing
industry perspective AB InBev and Heineken are noted as finalists.
v The World Economic Forum has
published the Energy Transition Index 2020, which looks at 115
countries’ readiness to transition to clean energy. Top 10 spots are all occupied
by European countries, as follows: Sweden (1), Switzerland (2), Finland (3),
Denmark (4), Norway (5), Austria (6), United Kingdom (7), France (8),
Netherlands (9), Iceland (10).
13/01/2021
The Desperados brand launches the first alcohol-free version with Desperados Virgin 0.0%. According to Desperados Brand Director, Diederik Vos, “the launch of Desperados Virgin 0.0% is a major strategic next step, with a growing number of drinkers seeking alcohol free alternatives”.
MolsonCoors enters the energy drink market.13/01/2021
MolsonCoors is to distribute ZOA Energy Drink, by signing an exclusive distribution deal. The ZOA drink was created by a team that includes actor and retired professional wrestler Dwayne Johnson. The ZOA drink will be available in March in five flavours and containing natural ingredients.
MolsonCoors launches Hard Seltzer lemonade.12/01/2021
Lemonade is seen by Molson Coors as an emerging subsegment for the seltzer space and their plans to launch Vizzy Lemonade Hard Seltzer planned in April. The lemonade will be gluten-free and will feature four flavours: strawberry lemonade, peach lemonade, watermelon lemonade and raspberry lemonade, each with 5% abv and low calories.
Push for Latino legend induction into American Football Hall of Fame08/01/2021
Coors Light has started a campaign to induct Tom “The Iceman” Flores to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, famous for
being the first Latino quarterback and head coach in the NFL. Coors Light is running national TV ads, both in English and Spanish, and is selling limited edition cans with Mr. Flores pictured. In addition, an on-line petition is being promoted with incentives (free beer) to consumers ahead of the Feb 6th induction vote by the Hall of Fame selection committee. The brand positioning toward football fans during NFL Playoffs, along with a strong focus on Latino consumers is aimed to boost Coors Light market share in the Premium Light Beer category.
08/01/2021
Marston’s, the publican, expects UK pubs to be closed until March, the earliest. Looking ahead, the company expects customer demand to be strong once lockdown is eased and restrictions are lifted. The company also believes that its pub estate is well positioned due to its predominant presence in suburban locations.
Cannabis infused drinks on the way to be legalized in Michigan.08/01/2021
Beginning in 2021, Michigan’s Marijuana Regulatory Agency released guidelines for THC-infused beverages, which may be available for sale at licensed marijuana stores, once guidelines are approved by the state licensing agency. The initiative would open the door to potential consumption at marijuana lounges or during specific events.
Food and beverage innovation trends in 2021.08/01/2021
Talking to consumers, Food Dive identified the following five trends to fuel food and beverage innovation in 2021: 1./ demand for health and immunity products; 2./ tech enabled transparency for consumers; 3./ next generation of plant based options; 4./ demand for new flavours to target consumers interested in new and novel tastes; and 5./ gene editing from crops to provide consumers with food with far more interesting traits (tastier, fresher etc.).
Carlsberg 0.0 features actor Mads Mikkelsen07/01/2021
Putting more focus behind the Zero Alcohol category, Carlsberg launched its new Carlsberg 0.0 ad featuring Hollywood actor Mads Mikkelsen as a cycling philosopher. The ad is first launched in Ireland and Denmark, being rolled out in other markets later in 2021.
Dry January supported by Budweiser Zero05/01/2021
Also, in the Zero Alcohol space Budweiser Zero is launching a ‘Team Zero’ campaign to promote Dry January utilizing a team of well-known athlete brand ambassadors. Dry January is a movement where consumers abstain from alcohol consumption at the beginning of the year. According to the campaign, consumers can sign up at JoinTeamZero.com and will receive motivational emails from the ambassadors
Molson Coors old brewery site to be transformed into a high-tech campus31/12/2020
Concord Pacific vision for the former Molson Coors brewery site in Vancouver, BC, is one of high-tech campus with 300,000 sq feet of office space, 3,000 homes and a series of up to 25-story towers (including a retail component). The developer intends to pursue rezoning of the industrial property with the campus named Quantum Park.
Asahi announced receiving approval regarding divestments of selected brands28/12/2020
Asahi Group Holdings announced that it obtained approvals from the Australian Consumer and Competition Commission, and the Foreign Investment Review Board to finalise the sale of certain selected brands, Asahi acquired from AB InBev in July 2019, to Heineken NV. The concerned brands include major beer brands Stella Artois and Beck’s; along with Strongbow, Little Green, and Bonamy ciders. The deal with Heineken NV will close on January 5th, 2021.
Budweiser sends limited edition “Messi” beer bottles to 644 goalkeepers24/12/2020
Budweiser, an American-style pale lager beer produced by AB InBev, sent a 644 limited beer bottle to all goalkeepers against whom Messi has scored. The talented striker has scored 644 goals during his career (so far), surpassing Pele’s hail of 643
goals. The campaign was accompanied by a short video message from Messi stating “20 years ago, I began a journey determined to be the best player I can be, and it has taken sacrifice and hard work to score every one of the 644 goals with the help of my teammates”
23/12/2020
Marston takes over 156 pubs from Welsh brewery, Brains. The move is set to save 1300 jobs and the Welsh brewer from Covid-19 collapse. The Wales lockdown was one of the toughest in the UK, placing immense pressure on SA Brain & Co and this deal offers critical support to the pub chain.
AB InBev is selling a minority share in its metal container plant23/12/2020
AB InBev entered into a strategic relationship with a consortium of institutional investors, Apollo Global Management, to acquire 49.9% minority stake in the company US based metal container plants for approximately USD $3bn. AB InBev retains operational control under a long-term agreement which includes the option for AB InBev to re-acquire the minority stake under predetermined financial terms, following the fifth year after the close of the transaction.
AB InBev sells its distribution center in Loveland22/12/2020
On Dec 4th, AB InBev sold The American Eagle Distribution center in Loveland, CO USA for $7.76MM as part of an asset sell-off for its Colorado distribution arm to a Georgia, USA based company, Eagle Rock.
Tilray and Aphria merge21/12/2020
Tilray and Aphria merge to create the largest global cannabis company, by sales. The combined company will have a proforma revenue of $685MM and will hold 17% share of the Canadian cannabis market. The merger is a strategic move to strengthen the company for the post-pandemic future lying ahead.
Rapper Snoop Dogg – the new image for Corona beer brand19/12/2020
Snoop Dogg reached a deal (valued at more than US$10M) with Constellation Brands, owner of Corona Extra US distribution rights, to be the new face for the popular beer brand. Part of the deal, the rapper recorded an ad, to be used as part of a digital marketing campaign.
AB InBev to export Quilmes Clasica to Nordic markets19/12/2020
Denmark, Norway, Finland and Sweden are to receive 50,000 bottles of the Argentine beer, Quilmes Clasica before the end of 2020 with another 120,000 bottles during 2021. The company is pleased to see a very positive early response in the region, with consumers being drawn to Argentine culture and beer.
Google to limit alcohol and gambling ads18/12/2020
Google has announced a plan to limit the number of alcohol and gambling related ads available on its platform. This new feature will be initially implemented for YouTube Ads in the US, and will be rolled out to Google Ads beginning early 2021.
Budweiser Brewing Group UK&I powers Magor Brewery by Wind Turbine18/12/2020
Budweiser Brewing Group UK&I, part of AB InBev, and Clean Earth, a renewable energy company, teamed up to install a wind turbine at the company brewery in Magor. This is the latest step in the company effort to brew its beer with 100% electricity by next year.
Molson Coors helps feed the hungry18/12/2020
Molson Coors made several donations to different food banks across North America – 65,000 meals to Toronto’s Daily Bread Food Bank, 375,000 meals to Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin (Milwaukee), 120,000 meals to Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, 750,000 meals to Greater Chicago Food Depository. All donations are intended to fight hunger during these unprecedented times.
AB InBev is partnering with Travis Scott to launch a new hard seltzer brand17/12/2020
AB InBev and rapper Travis Scott are teaming to launch a hard seltzer brand called Cacti, to hit shelves in spring 2021. Cacti will have three initial flavours (lime, pineapple, strawberry) and 7% abv (much higher than other hard seltzers on the market).
Carlsberg’s campaign to support local pubs and restaurants16/12/2020
Carlsberg is giving away a free pint to responsible bar and restaurant goers, this December. The company has teamed up with several famous Irish faces (Shane Todd, Killian Sundermann, among others), to support local pubs and restaurants.
AB InBev Top 2020 drinks company16/12/2020
Drinks Insight Network has published its top drinks company list, with AB InBev ranking first with $52.3bn in revenues in 2019 from beverages, a 12% YoY revenue decline in 2020. According to the same top list, Coca Cola is the second biggest drinks company in 2020, followed by Nestle and PepsiCo, as third and fourth places respectively.
AB InBev acquisition of Ace Beverage is being investigated16/12/2020
Alcohol Justice, an alcohol industry watchdog agency based in California, submitted an official letter asking California Attorney General, to investigate AB InBev takeover of/ merger with Ace Beverage. Ace Beverage is one of the largest independent distributors in the US, based in California, distributing primarily products from AB InBev and Constellation Brands (Corona/ Modelo). According to the letter, if approved, the new company would control 85% of the wholesale market in California.
Heineken 0.0 Driver’s Fridge15/12/2020
Publicis has created a Driver’s Fridge, with the same features and technology of a modern car door, to promote attention on Heineken 0.0 in Singapore. The fridges are placed in bars and only accessible by the keys from a car which sends a clear signal to drivers that they have non-alcohol options when driving.
Heineken appoints new UK managing director15/12/2020
Heineken has appointed David Flochel as the new managing director for its UK division, as of January 1st,2021. Mr. Flochel has recently served as a chief executive of European self-service retail Selecta Group, and has previously held senior positions at ABInBev, Mars, Unilever and L’Oreal.
Heineken to further invest in Brazil15/12/2020
Heineken is to invest in a new brewery in the state of Minas Gerais. No value was yet declared by Heineken, while the state government said the company planned to invest 1.8bn reais (US$353 million).
Beer price fixing in India – Carlsberg, SAB Miller and UB11/12/2020
A government antitrust investigation report has unveiled that executives at Carlsberg, SABMiller and UB exchanged commercially sensitive information and colluded to fix beer prices in India for a period of over 11 years. The conclusions were based on executives’ conversations, WhatsApp messages and e-mails that show the companies regularly and collectively strategized in seeking price increases in several states. The companies also used the ‘All India Brewers Association’ as a common platform to decide together on prices. The findings of the investigation, which are not yet a final judgement of wrongdoing, cast a shadow on brewers, which account for 88% of India’s beer market (estimated at $7bn).
Asahi sells the online retailer BoozeBud to its founders11/12/2020
Asahi Beverage has sold its on-line retailer BoozeBud back to the original founders as part of the review of the Carlton & United Breweries (CUB) e-commerce participation strategy. CUB will be focusing on its products through retail customers, securing visibility for their iconic brands through customers’ digital channels as well as working with other customers (including on-premise) to develop their on-line presence.
Molson Coors confirm the closing of its Burtonwood (UK) Brewery11/12/2020
Molson Coors pulled out of the historic site, which it shares with Thomas Hardy Burtonwood bottling plant. The closure operation is forecasted to be complete by September 2021, with 25 jobs being at risk. The site produces 1% of Molson Coors volumes, the company planning to move the production to other sites across the UK.
Molson Coors expands its operation in Milwaukee11/12/2020
Molson Coors plans to invest $2.8b in its brewer campus in downtown Milwaukee (Wisconsin). The expansion project will be designated a newly approved Enterprise Zone, allowing the company to quality for $25m of performance-based tax credits over the next eight years, if the company meets hiring and capital expenditure targets.
Hexo announces new Centre of excellence and beverage plant in Canada10/12/2020
The cannabis producer Hexo is launching a Centre of excellence and a cannabis infused drinks bottling house in Belleville, ON Canada, in a joint venture with Molson Coors. The new brands include Little Victory naturally flavoured sparkling beverages and House of Terpenes sparkling tonics, which contain botanically sourced aromatic oils that flavour cannabis (called terpenes).
Budweiser Brewing Group UK&I announces on-trade sales director09/12/2020
Budweiser Brewing Group UK&I, part of AB InBev, has announced that Jean-David Thumelaire will be its new On-Trade Sales Director. Mr. Thumelaire will focus on driving growth across the brewer’s iconic portfolio of beers (such as Budweiser, Stella Artois, Corona, Bud Light) in the on-trade as well as supporting customers towards a recovery path following a very difficult year.
Carlsberg Croatia donates a respirator to Koprivnica General Hospital05/12/2020
Carlsberg Croatia donated a mobile respirator to Koprivnica General Hospital to help doctors give the best possible care to Covid-19 patients. This follows an earlier disinfectant donation to the city, done early in the year, to help with the overall corona situation.
Molson Coors launches its first CBD drinks in the US04/12/2020
Molson Coors launched its first CBD beverage in Colorado, USA, under the Truss brand, already present in Canada, and which comes two years ago, the company signed a joint venture with cannabis producer Hexo. In the US, it is expected the CBD drinks market will grow at a 17.8% compound annual growth rate though 2025, with revenues to $2.8bn.
AB InBev: embarking on an innovative tech journey30/11/2020
AB InBev is making more and more use of hi-tech in its operations. Some examples: The St. Louis brewery, Missouri, has a
‘digital twin’ – a virtual replica of the real brewery that allows for immediate equipment repairs, testing of new brewery scenarios; Putian warehouse in China, introduced a forklift technology that detects the presence of a pedestrian within an unsafe distance and pushes the brakes; the digital hub in Jaguariuna, Brazil, allows its teams to monitor the delivery fleet – arrival, departures and performance; in Mexico and Dominican Republic, drivers serving small grocery stores and neighbourhood retailers are equipped with a series of mobile tools to allow communication on arrival times, product availability, amount owed, as well as allowing retailers to make digital payments. Technology is used also in the training materials, via YouTube provide videos of breweries SOPs and automatic, immediate translation, with the help of AI, of these materials into dozens of languages.
27/11/2020
To celebrate the recently launched football season, and as an official sponsor of English Premier League, the global beer giant announced the launch of a “Budweiser Smooth Kick off promo”. The promo gives the chance to win brand new cars (Mercedes Benz), Playstation 5 consoles and other prizes. Customers can win prizes by buying a 600ml bottle of Budweiser and thereafter text the unique code under the crown to 20050, all whilst enjoying their favorite La Liga and Premier League matches.
Heineken USA as founding partner for Angel City Football Club27/11/2020
Angel City Football Club, LA, the newest professional women’s soccer team set to take the pitch, as part of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), in Spring 2022, announced that Heineken USA is its exclusive category sponsor. Through this partnership, Heineken and Tecate will receive full marketing rights to activate partnership and rights to Angel City Football Club marks. The team is founded by actress and activist Natalie Portman, technology venture capitalist Kara Nortman, media and gaming entrepreneur Julie Uhram and venture capitalist, 776 founder & Reddit co-founder Alexis
Ohanian.
26/11/2020
Heineken 0.0 is being launched in a new slimmer, more stylish can for the Malaysian non-alcohol beer market where
consumers can enjoy anytime, anywhere, including when working from home which very prevalent these days. To promote the new can, Heineken is offering 4 free cans of Heineken 0.0. delivered to one’s door-step simple by inviting admin@heineken.com.my to any virtual meeting, at least 3 days in advance.
26/11/2020
In a class action, Heineken is accused by consumers of misleading them into believing that Tecate beer is made in Mexico,
through “the brand name, the traditional Meso-American typeface, the mystical Aztec eagle emblazoned on the product and the statements ‘Original’ and ‘Cerveza’ on the labelling”, while the beer is produced in Holland. Similar claims are made in regard to the brand’s website which states “Hecha En tecata Baja California Mexico” and “Born and brewed in the land we are proud to share our name with: Tecate”.
26/11/2020
As Covid-19 restrictions are lifted, and Heineken Malaysia reported a net profit of RM61.25million for its third quarter ending in September 2020. Still, the company cautions on future business performance, especially regarding the on-trade channel, as this sector of the business remains negatively impacted despite the gradual recovery of economic activities.
Nielsen data show strong at home beverage demand in November24/11/2020
Nielsen data showed strong sales for the four weeks into middle November (Y/Y %): Boston Beer +46.1%, Red Bull +21.3%, Constellation Brand +16.6%, Keurig Dr Pepper +15.7%, Coca Cola +12.5%, Monster Beverage +11.4%, AB InBev
+10.2%, PepsiCo +9.6%.
23/11/2020
A Bernstein analyst argues that Heineken still does not succeed to get its distribution right in China. He sees this as the biggest challenge for the new CEO, Dolf van den Brink. The analyst is basing his arguments on a survey made by Bernstein that shows Heineken distribution in the key premium restaurants channel limited to Chengdu, Hangzhou and Shenyang, all three being strongholds of China Resources Enterprise (Heineken joint venture partner in China) and should therefore represent the “lowest hanging fruits” for the company. Nevertheless, Heineken penetration seems to be behind its competitors – in Hangzhou, the region with the highest penetration for
Heineken, 45% of restaurants list the brand, while AB InBev is mentioned 55% of the time and Snow, China Resource beer, is mentioned 65% of the time. In the other regions the situation is worse.
20/11/2020
Kelly O’Hara, member of the US Women’s Soccer National Team launched a sports podcast in July 2020, growing to over 300,000 subscribers. The podcast is entitled Just Women’s Sports. For season 2, Kelly O’Hara is teaming up with Heineken with the aim to increase visibility on today’s most celebrates female athletes and reshape the media landscape for women’s sports coverage. Season 2 will features personal stories from top athletes including Allyson Felix, Carli Lloyd, Michelle Wie, Stephanie Gilmore, Mallory Pugh and Cat Osterman.
European Brewery Convention appoints a new president20/11/2020
European Brewery Convention appoints Benet Fite, a member of the Mahou San Miguel Executive Committee, as its new president. The European Brewery Convention is the scientific and technological arm of The Brewers of Europe. The institution plays a leading part in developing methods for quality control procedures in brewing, malting and hop laboratories throughout the world.
Molson Coors unveils new Canadian craft beer range16/11/2020
Fine Company, a new craft beer brand of Molson Coors, will roll out in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, before the end of the year. Initially, there will be two beers launch – a 4.8% abv blonde lager and a 5.1% abv IPA, with more to follow next year.
AB InBev announced the redemption of $2.55bn and €1.16bn16/11/2020
The company announced in a press release on Nov 16th 2020, the details and conditions (series, dates) under which its wholly owned subsidiaries AB InBev Worldwide Inc and AB InBev Finance Inc are exercising their respective options to redeem the outstanding principal amounts of selected notes.
23/07/2021
Researchers are exploring how compounds derived from hops could help prevent obesity and metabolic syndrome, whose cause is linked to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Scientists observed that specific compounds found in hops could help to interfere with the creation and storage of fat cells which could help in the unhealthy build-up of these fat cells.
Barth Haas has released its ranking of world top 40 brewers as of December 2020.23/07/2021
And according to the report, there were several changes amongst the many movements the top 20 brewers, with Carlsberg Group taking 3rd place and Groupe Castel taking the 8th place. Top 10 ranking is as follows: AB InBev, Heineken, Carlsberg, China Resources Snow Brewery, Molson Coors, Tsingtao Brewery Group, Asahi Group, Groupe Castel, Efes Group, and Yanjing. The report also looked at total beer output for the top 40 brewers in 2020 vs 2019, which shows a -6% decrease.
Denver Beer Spa – great opportunity for hops and barley therapy15/07/2021
The Beer Spa in Denver, CO (USA) is a new wellness spot where you can pour yourself a local brew from a self-serve tap station before slinking into a bubbling, herb infused tub of hops and barley for a sudsy soak. The spa has four Beer Therapy Rooms, each equipped with an infrared sauna, a rain shower and a beer tub, with blends created by an in-house herbalist, sourcing hops and barley from brewery partners, and adding in an antioxidant rich herbal blend that changes every month.
Another example of the focus on local sourcing gaining prominence in non-traditional areas, like New York State.09/07/2021
The USDA announced hop acreages are at record levels with 60,735 acres in production this year, 4% more than last year acreage (58,641 acres). Within a pandemic recovery this is encouraging news as hop growers appear to anticipate a rapid return to pre-pandemic demand for hops. Within existing acreage, varieties also fluctuated depending on demand, with an overall rise in aroma and dual-purpose varieties, and a drop in alpha varieties. USDA reports the top five varieties as: Citra, Mosaic, CTZ, Cascade and Simcoe, which make up 53% of the total US acreage.
New York state is investing $300,000 in a new hop breeding programme at Cornell AgriTech. The programme will grow and develop signature NY hop varieties – selected for high yields, preferred flavours and disease resistance, to support the state’s $3.4B craft brewing industry. The programme is led by Larry Smart and integrates AgriTech’s expertise in supporting local hop growers overcome breeding and disease management challenges.
The Hop Growers of America issued a report01/07/2021
Showing the most popular hops during the last five years with one constant element being the dominance of the Pacific Northwest region. Looking at varieties, the report identifies the following most popular ones: (1) Citra, (2) CTZ, (3) Mosaic, (4) Simcoe, and (5) Cascade, with a newcomer, El Dorado, holding the 10th place. The report also shows that plantings have shifted from 50% alpha bitter hops in 2012 to nearly 78% aroma hops in 2020 which reflects the popularity of aroma hops across a growing range of interesting craft beers.
Mosaic hop variety provides tropical fruit aromas01/07/2021
The Mosaic hop variety provides tropical fruit aromas and as a result make it one of the most desired hops by craft brewers who are widening the world of full-flavour IPAs. The variety emerged from a Washington state breeding programme in 2012 and continues to grow in interest as it can provide a beer with a blast of mango aroma, as well as a fruit punch flavour.
Hops documentary part of film festival01/07/2021
A Yakima (US) hops documentary, focused on the Yakima Valley’s hop industry, was
released as part of the Ellensburg Film Festival (Washington State).
01/07/2021
The collaboration between Lavery Brewing in Erie (US), a Pittsburgh brewery and a
German hop grower resulted in the creation of a new Italian pilsner product.
17/06/2021
The National Trust (UK) submitted a request to Herefordshire Council to turn two farm
buildings near Bromyard into three holiday rentals, with hop kilns being part of the
scheme. The scheme aims to create two one-bed holiday rentals which will be labelled
Hop Kiln Mews and Hop Kiln Barn.
17/06/2021
After one year of various lockdowns, the crowds in Aiken (SC), gathered close to
Newberry Street, to take part in the Sixth Annual Hops & Hogs festival. The festival can
accommodate thousands of visitors for the enjoyment of beer, barbecue, brisket, wine,
ice cream and other options, including music from a number of live brands.
11/06/2021
Yakima Chief Hops announced the launch of Cryo Pop Original Blend that uses groundbreaking research to improve the carrying of hop aroma into finished beers. The new blend is combining the Company’s 2017 cryogenic hop processing technology with cutting edge hop lab analysis techniques. The company’s R&D facility houses one of the world’s few labs capable in detecting previously undetectable aromatic components.
The Barth Haas Group COVID monitor11/06/2021
The Barth Haas Group COVID monitor continues to identify constraints in the logistics area for Germany, and to a degree in the UK as well. The German constraints remain as follows: protocols to minimize contact with external truck drivers which causes significant delays and additional costs increases; and an extreme shortage of reefer containers needed for Asian shipments. The UK constraints relate to Covid testing and higher rates to compensate for the longer waiting times, as well as airfreight limited availability due to reduced aircraft traffic and additional hygiene controls for interactions with logistics providers.
Deschutes Brewery new hop centric beer02/06/2021
Deschutes, a craft brewer in the Pacific Northwest (USA) launched a new beer – Squeezt Rider West Coast IPA, a beer high in fruity hop flavor but low in IBU. The brewery has a long relationship with hops being a short four-hour drive from the major hop region, Yakima Valley. Deschutes selects hop varieties based on sensory attributes on a lot-by-lot basis to achieve the targeted flavour outcome.
Hop merchant and processor contributes to musician relief fund.02/06/2021
Crosby Hop, an integrated hop processor and merchant in the US Northwest announced the first annual ‘Rock on Beer’ collaboration to benefit Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, which provides financial assistance to musicians and music industry workers. The contribution will donate the full profits from selected ‘Rock on Hops’ purchases through July 1st, 2021.
Craft brewer launching new IPAs based on experimental hop mixed02/06/2021
Big Rock Brewery (Canada) is launching a series of beers, called Hop Head IPA House, based on mixing experimental hops and playlists from Spotify. The quartet of beers has the following hop flavours mixes: 1. mango-coconut-stone fruit; 2. A hazy west coast IPA; 3. orange-vanilla-pineapple; 4. / tropical fruit-citrus-earthy pine sensations.
Citra Hops28/05/2021
Citra Hops is a hop actively utilized across a wide range of creative styles of IPAs from numerous craft brewers. Citra hops was first bred by the Hop Breeding Company, in 2007, and is assumed to lend a smooth flavor and aroma that registers as both deliciously floral and citrus forward. In 2019, this leading variety was grown on 6,720 acres.
Hops are grown again in Yamanashi (Japan28/05/2021
Hops are grown again in Yamanashi (Japan) as a local alternative to cheaper imported hops and to respond to the craft beer popularity rise. All this despite the fact Japan lacks the land to scale up and compete with overseas hop farms. However, at micro level, small scale hop farms can support to a limited degree the demand for local hops in local craft beers.
Hops grown by Kansas farmers against the odds11/05/2021
May 7, 2021
The Kansas Hop Co started farming and harvesting hops in 2016, when they entered what was then a nonexistent market. For growing hops, there are a few limitations like sufficient daylight and heavier soil which are sizable challenges for growing quality hops in the State. However, Kansas farmers are proving innovative methods (e.g., drip irrigation and lights) to achieve hop crops with yields and quality the local breweries are seeking. A further example of local ingredients supporting craft breweries in their local connections with consumers.
Hops News07/05/2021
The April Barth Haas Group COVID monitor shows big constraints in logistics area in Germany, with some degree of constraints in the UK. The German constraints continue to be related to reducing contact to external truck drivers due to COVID measures which is causing significant delays, and cost increases for shipments to Asia due to extreme shortage of reefer containers. The UK constraints refer Covid testing requirements and higher freight rates to compensate for the longer waiting times. As well, airfreight availability is low due to reduced aircraft traffic.
Hop Products Australia have completed their 2021 hop harvest. Overall, they picked 675 hectares resulting in 1,526 metric tons of hops, a 6.9% increase in surface and a -1.6% in metric tons on a year-over-year basis.
| Variety | Yield (metric tons) | Yr-on-Yr variation |
| Galaxy | 974 | +7.2% |
| Vic Secret | 233 | +11.1% |
| Ella | 91 | -20.8% |
| Enigma | 86 | +0.7% |
| Topaz | 67 | -17.1% |
| Eclipse | 51 | +106.9% |
| Cascade | 29 | -45.6% |
| Total | 1,529 | -1.6% |
John I. Haas Inc, part of Barth Haas Group, announced the introduction of new varieties part of the hop-forward brewing innovation Lupomax: Saaz, Ariana, Callista and Huell Melon. These new varieties bring intensified flavours and aromas to give brewers a huge range of options including late and dry hopping to create new beer flavours.
New Zealand Southern farm growing hops
28/04/2021
An idea came to the owner of Garston farm, a 140-year-old Southland farm handling mostly sheep and crops, while drinking a beer and reflecting about the plight for New Zealand craft brewers. In particular, many brewers were struggling to get New Zealand produced hops but happily the location of the farm corresponds to the latitude for hops production. With support from existing New Zealand hop farmers (a little North in Nelson Motueka), the business was up and running, with small scale first 800 plants on about three quarters of a hectare, with plans to ultimately increase to 5ha.
BC Hop Company receives approval to grow two new hemp cultivars.28/04/2021
Health Canada has approved the inclusion of two new hemp varieties: Painted Lady and Eighty-Eight, onto the 2021 List of Approved Cultivars for Hemp. Both varieties belong to BC Hop Company and produce high yields for CBD hemp.
New Zealand’s hop varieties23/04/2021
New Zealand’s hop varieties are available to brewers as natural oil extracts thanks to the partnership between New Zealand Hops (NZH) and Totally Natural Solutions (TNS). The two companies forged a joint venture last year, that combined TNS’s patented extraction technologies with NZH’s hops to deliver a fully soluble hop oil that enhances aroma and flavour in beer. The new HopInspiration Premium NZH’s range feature the Nectaron, Kohatu, Moutere, Rakau, Taiheke, Waimea and Wai-iti hop varieties.
Fresh hops grown in New Zealand23/04/2021
Fresh hops grown in New Zealand could not get any fresher than being picked, prepped, packed and sent to brewers, all within a few hours. Green hops can be secured by brewers every year, to a maximum of 100 kilograms per customer, through the New Zealand Hops’ Green Hops programme. The hops are harvested straight from the bine, with no drying and available for fresh brewing immediately which creates fresh hop beers that are marketed seasonally for just a few months each year.
Hazy IPA launched using New Zealand hop12/04/2021
Firestone Walker brewery in California, has launched a two hazy beers, Luponic Distortion and Propagator, using New Zealand Nectaron hops. The tropical qualities make Nectaron hop variety a lovely feature for a hazy beer. The Nectaron variety is blended with other New Zealand hop blends to bring unique flavours for the Luponic Distortion beer, which is also brewed without the aid of any adjuncts.
11 hop-heavy beers that make good springtime sippers10/04/2021
The following 11 beers, heavy in hops, are great to sip this spring, to enjoy the crisp, bitter bite and citrus, resin and tropical fruit flavours that hops can deliver: Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, West Bank Pub Ale, Mikerphone Brewing double dry-hopped pale ale, Bent Brewstillery Enuff IPA, Fair State Brewing Cooperative Double Strata hazy IPA, Firestone Walker Mind Haze IPA, Modis Brewing Day of Another Dream IPA, Urban Growler Brewing Co Northwest Connection IPA, Odell Brewing Co Solarized double IPA flavoured with yuzu fruit, Badger Hill Brewing Blood Orange Traitor IPA, Athletic Brewing Run Wild IPA.
Hazy IPA launched after perfect hop crop came to fruition09/04/2021
Hop Concept launched their Haze Pipe Hazy IPA after a successful hop harvest of Simcoe, Mosaic, Citra, Amarillo and Strata varieties came to fruition. As per the words of the company COO, Tomme Arthur, “we’ve been thinking about this beer for quite some time now, and I’m finally convinced we have the right combination of hops to produce this dream I’ve had”.
The March 2021 Barth Haas Group Covid-19 monitor warns of constraints in the logistics sector09/04/2021
The March 2021 Barth Haas Group Covid-19 monitor warns of constraints in the logistics sector, noting with the addition of challenges in Germany and the UK. In the UK, constraints are related to necessary COVID testing for road and sea freight shipments (reducing contact with external truck drivers), which leads to higher freight rates in order to compensate for the longer waiting times. For export container shipments an extreme shortage of refrigerated containers is noted in the report. For air freight, prices are higher due to reduced aircraft traffic overall as airlines reduce service (and raise airfreight rates).
Busy times at Holmdale Farm (NZ) during the hop harvesting period
26/03/2021
The owner of the Holmdale Farm, Cameron Ealam and his extended family have been very busy during the hop harvest. Hop picking machines start-up at 7am every morning and work 12 hours while the drying kiln works through the night. All to ensure the crop processed with maximum efficiency. Riwaka is a very popular, sought after hop variety.
Yakima Chief is improving their e-commerce platform25/03/2021
After launching a new B2B e-commerce platform several years ago, Yakima Chief is now testing on-line, buyer experience improvements to the platform. The aim is to collect consumer activity and determine what drives a click to buy versus an exit from the site.
Oregon State University and the US Department of Agriculture12/03/2021
New research performed by Oregon State University and the US Department of Agriculture expanded significantly the understanding of the hop genome, creating a potential to provide brewers with additional hop varieties. According to the author of the study, “if you are asking the beer drinkers, they will be excited about the brewing side; if you are talking to the medical field, they are going to be excited about the pharmaceutical potential”. The findings of the study are published in the journal, The Plant Genome.
Ontario West Coast growing hops.06/03/2021
Ontario West Coast becomes more and more a food and drink area. From wine to beer is getting full of buzzy upstarts. Once such example is the Half Hours on Earth brewery that it is the first brewery certified carbon-neutral brewery in Canada and one brewery that grow their own hops.
Eastern Montana starts to grow hops.01/03/2021
Hops are grown in Montana, but mainly in the Western side. Some growers are now experiencing with growing the crop in the Eastern side of the state.
University of Florida12/02/2021
The experiment put together by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences project to grow hops in the state of Florida is showing promises. The trial using LED grow lights at an experimental hops yard resulted in thriving plant development due to the additional hours of artificial sunshine. This is a major step forward in the quest an all-made-in-Florida beer.
Hop Products Australia12/02/2021
Hop Products Australia is hosting their 2021 annual harvest on-line, with a global virtual experience which will include tours of the company farms and breeding facilities, technical advice on brewing with green hops, maximising hop flavour in beer, and insights into HPA’s approach to quality and sustainability. The events are scheduled throughout the month of March.
Hops as helpers for human body to combat certain disease.
04/02/2021
Researchers from the Biological Centre of the Czech Academy of Science are working to modify hops genes in an effort to assist the human body to combat cancer, inflammation and bacteria. To test their hypothesis, researchers used the CRISP technology to target an enzyme gene which regulates the production of leaf dyes. Next on their agenda is changing genes that are responsible for the production of the bitter acids that focus on prenylated flavonoids, a group of chemical compounds that act against cancer, bacteria and inflammation. These same gene modifications will also improve the quality of beer during brewing process.
Cascade and Amarillo Hops help the launch of a new Pale Ale.03/02/2021
Silver City Brewery announced the launch of their Sonic Reign American Pale Ale, with a fruit character due to Amarillo hops and a classic, piney, Pacific Northwest hop experience due to Cascade hops. To brew this new beer, the brewing team abandoned all “sacred cows” and built a new recipe, incorporating new techniques to extract as much aroma and flavour as possible from all ingredients, and to generate a beverage that is as light-bodied, nimble and refreshing.
Hops at the center of two new hazy IPAs.29/01/2021
Dry hops like Citra, El Dorado, Mosaic, Galaxy, and a new variety – Azacca are the ingredient that gives two new hazy IPAs – Hazy NEIPA and Cloudius Claudius Hazy NEIPA their unique characteristic. These beers are created by Stable Craft Brewing in Virginia, USA.
2021 Hop Mob event to still go on.26/01/2021
Even though the pandemic prevents the organization of several Washington (State) Hop Mob events held previously, the event organisers are looking to host a single event have at The Brewmaster’s Taproom in Renton, WA with 15 beers brewed by 14 breweries, and a majority packaged in aluminum cans. Beer enthusiasts can decide to either enjoy as an on-site tasting or a ‘to-go’ option. Further evidence of the brewing industry thinking creatively to stay connected with consumers.
BarthHaas latest hop update.22/01/2021
The company published their January article on hop sourcing activity and identified on-going logistic constraints in the UK and Germany. Both countries are furthering new hygiene measures to prevent the Covid-19 spread and avoid contact with truck drivers (e.g., loading by own employees, handing of documents via glass windows). As regards logistics capacities, Germany seems to be confronted with shortages for both air and sea freight, while the UK seems to be short of airfreight capacity, with ocean and road being faced with higher prices.
Hops at the forefront of another special IPA09/01/2021
Ode IPA, produced by Castle Danger Brewing, is a dark golden beer with foamy white head, with a tropical fruit-like aroma. Hops are the forefront of this IPA, providing flavour characteristics of grapefruit, mango, pine and slight pineapple while delivering moderate overall hop bitterness.
Hop farmers, breweries and a music venue unite to support venues06/01/2021
Baenum Hop Farm, Sibling Reverly and Jolly Scholar Breweries, along with four music venues (Beachland Ballroom, Grog Shop, Happy Dog,and Mahall’s) cooperated to create the “Lights on Lager”. This offering is a four-pack of 16-oz cans with each music venue featured to promote their business. The beer is a dry-hopped lager, at 5.2% alcohol and 35 IBUs.
Hop and malt have therapeutic properties30/12/2020
According to a study published by MDPI Antioxidants Journal in December 2020, key beer ingredients, hops and malt, appear to be the basis for an antioxidant called Aliophen®, which is claimed to have chemo preventive effect. The study shows Aliophen® exerts promising health effects, including an anticancer capacity which is presumably associated with its antioxidant properties. Aliophen® is produced and patented by Alipharma, being a 100% natural bioactive extract obtained from selected malts and hops, rich in polyphenols at the original concentrations.
Hail storm strip hop vines bare in New Zealand29/12/2020
A hailstorm on Boxing Day (Dec 26th) appears to have destroyed up to half of the hop crop in Motueka (New Zealand). According to farmers in the region, this was the worst hailstorm ever seen, which resulting in over 100mm of hail
on the ground. For the hop harvest expected in March, several farms will be lucky to harvest 50% of expected crop.
26/12/2020
The leader in extending the post-harvest life of perishables, announced its RipeLocker technology had extended the life of fresh hops by six weeks. The tests were done in collaboration with CLS Farms and Thomas Hooker Brewing Company, testing 240 pounds of Comet and EI Dorado hops in the brewing process of “Cultivate” beer. The technology allows for fresh hops, that usually need to be used within a few days from harvest (to retain their original form, color and aroma) to be utilized for up to six weeks. This is an important advantage for hop growers, hop dealers, breweries, and ultimately consumers.
Hop makes a sticky rice lager unique23/12/2020
Adjunct beers are not new to the America market; however, a sticky rice-based beer is a new entrant. The beer, Thum Phuk Sticky Rice Lager, is produced by Burlington’s Low Daily Brewing company and also includes a special hop not usually used by Milwaukee area brewers. The hops are well known Saaz along with Sorachi Ace hops – a variety created in Japan and known for its herbal and lemony flavours (lemon peel and sharper lemongrass). Other ingredients are pilsner malt, flake rice and sticky rice.
New Jersey opens its first hop farm and brewery15/12/2020
Readington Brewery and Hop Farms, one of the largest hop farms in NJ, is opening a beer production facility, to allow customers to enjoy a beer while gazing across their fields of hops. The brewery will focus on classic beers, made with local ingredients, but with beer styles from different regions, including pilsners with German, Czech and US styles. The hop farm will also produce ingredients like pumpkins and raspberries for further beer innovation.
Barth Haas corona monitor shows constraints in logistics in Germany and UK14/12/2020
The latest Barth Haas Group Coronavirus monitor continues to illustrate constraints related to logistics, particularly in Germany and the UK. The constraints refer to road, air and sea freight manifested via higher charges and/or longer lead times, due to limited system capacities.
Kirin and Trinus co-develop a vinegar drink containing matured hop extract08/12/2020
Kirin subsidiary, INHOP, and Trinus work to develop a new vinegar drink brand, called Hoplus, that contains matured hops. The drink will be produced by Saga Vinegar Co and will have four variations (yuzu, orange, peach and grape flavours). Order are managed by Trinus via a crowdfunding site. Pre-orders are already accepted, as a means to fund manufacturing, with the aim for products to reach customers by February 2021.
New Zealand Hops well known for their specific flavours08/12/2020
New Zealand hop varieties are known for their aromatic flavours, especially the Nelson Sauvin, that has aromatic similarities to sauvignon blanc. This particular variety is being used by the Adobe Creek’s Owlbert Einstein IPA. The founder of Adobe Creek says that he finds flavours, like gooseberry and white wine from the Nelson Sauvin variety. Another variety that the brewery likes is Mouteka hop, evocative of zesty lemon and lime.
Post-harvest reports show Pacific Northwest planted more hops in 202005/12/2020
USDA report show that in 2020, Pacific Northwest hop growers planted more acres than in 2019, by 5%, even with market uncertainty due to Covid-19 and historically high hop inventory levels. The planted areas reached 59,174 acres (with an acre typically yielding around 2,000 pounds of hops).
Papillon Noir IPA features Enigma and Citra hops26/11/2020
A Vancouver collective that “combines beer, art and community to release limited batches of custom cans designed by local artists,”, called HYPHA Project, announced details of an upcoming release: Papillon Noir (6.5% abv) – a dry, crisp, drinkable double-dry hopped Northeast style IPA featuring Enigma + Citra hops. The balanced collection expresses notes of pinot gris, berries, bright citrus, stone + tropical fruits that will tantalize the senses. Whirlpooling & multiple dry hop additions make this aromatic beer come alive!
21st Amendment Brewery launched Hop Solo Hazy IPA26/11/2020
21st Amendment Brewery launched an exclusive brewpub series the CHALKBOARD PROJECT featuring limited edition beers. The series debuts with Hop Solo Hazy IPA (6.5% abv), a lush Galaxy hop forward stunner that is set to be released 24h after being brewed and packaged.
23/07/2021
Barmalt India, the largest manufacturer of malt and malt extract in India with manufacturing facilities in Dharuhera, Haryana, and Kotputli, Rajasthan, has actively organized and supported vaccination drives for their team.
The branding of malt is a great step to increasing malt’s profile with brewers and this Argentina example from Boortmalt is a sign of progress.23/07/2021
At the end of June, Boortmalt launched Uma Malta, the first Argentinean malt brand exclusively designed and developed for Latin-American craft brewers, aimed at to adapt to and satisfy those specific needs craft brewers have.
Improved crop inputs supply options for Scottish and English farmers is a good development.23/07/2021
Simpsons Malt, through its agricultural merchanting division McCreath Simpson & Prentice, entered in a distribution agreement with Yara UK, a world leader producer in the production of quality fertilizers. The agreement will give the company’s farming customers full access to Yara’s quality product range, including nitrogen fertilizers.
Riverband malthouse to expand capacity15/07/2021
The Riverband (Tennessee) malthouse announced the completion of the first batch of barley malted on its new 10-ton malting unit. This state of the art equipment increases the overall malthouse capacity by 40%, allowing the company to meet growing demand from craft brewers and distilleries throughout the Southeast.
Ready to Drink single malt mixed drink combinations15/07/2021
Ian Macleod Distillers (Scotland) introduces pre-mix extensions, produced from their Smokehead single malt Scotch whisky brand from Islay. The offerings comprise of Smokehead ‘mixed with Cola’ and ‘mixed with Ginger’, in a ready to drink format at 6% abv for a 33cl can.
Fruity single malt whisky is launched15/07/2021
Lakes Distillery (UK) is launching a fruity and lively single malt whisky which is a non-chill-filtered with a 54% abv. This new release is available from as a total offering of 600 individually numbered bottles, from retailer, Masters of Malt at a retail price of £80 ($110.75).
Muntons launches a premium alcohol-free malt extract09/07/2021
Muntons has launched a Premium Alcohol-Free Malt Extract which the company has been developing the past two years, with the aim of creating great tasting alcohol-free beer that is more accessible to all brewers. Described as versatile and easy to use, the extract is designed to give body, mouthfeel and taste.
Increasing malt options available for craft brewers08/07/2021
Malteurop North America is introducing a new specialty malt – Crystal Wheat 3L, which is a revolutionary new malt that changes the game when it comes to hazy beers. The new Crystal Wheat 3L malt is a unique, low colour crystal wheat that brings a sweet character to beer with hints of honey and fruit notes, while maintaining a clean finish.
Viking Malt starts the construction for its new production plant in Lahti, Finland.01/07/2021
The investment is estimated at EUR 90M and will produce 85,000 tons per year production capacity when operations begin in 2023. This new malting facility replaces the pre-existing maltings of nearly the same capacity and the new design will provide numerous efficiency improvements, including reduced water and energy usage.
Groupe Soufflet announced the commissioning of its Addis Ababa malting plant01/07/2021
The operation has a local supply chain aimed at malting barley production, and which has been in development for the last four years. The program involves the agricultural, technical and commercial departments within the business and focuses on development in the regions to the South and West of Addis Ababa. The new maltings is part of an ambitious plan of Malteries Soufflet’s overall strategy to develop operations outside Europe, a plan which already includes Brazil, Argentina and India in addition to this investment in Ethiopia.
Scotch Malt Whisky Society to float01/07/2021
The Artisanal Spirits Company, the owner of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, is offering
all its’ shares in a public offering on London Stock Exchange's Alternative Investment
Market (AIM). The new facilities, from Royal Bank of Scotland and Lombard, will enable
the Society to further invest in whisky and other spirits stock as well new cask wood.
01/07/2021
The GlenAllachie Distillery released their oldest and most prestigious offering with The
GlenAllachie 30-Year-Old cask strength batch 1 single malt scotch whisky. The batch
consists of only 2,000 bottles having a 48.9% abv and available from specialist
retailers at a price of $675 (£475). Gordon & MacPhail, one of Scotland’s more
legendary independent Scotch whisky bottlers is planning to release an 80-year-old
single malt whisky, bottled by Glenlivet Distillery with a 44.9% abv, later this year.
This amazing whisky journey began in 1940.
17/06/2021
Mainstem Malt (northwest USA) is launching four new flagship malts: Cascadia Pilsners
– a crisp, low protein malt; Cascadia White Wheat – a smooth, full bodied pale malt;
Evergreen Pale – bold and flavourful pale barley malt, 100% Washington grown;
Evergreen Alder Smoke – an Alderwood cold smoked version of Evergreen pale malt.
These malts are regional blends of top grain varieties from a company founded in 2014
to support family farms, rural communities and landscape-scale conservation work,
while serving customers in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska.
11/06/2021
United Malt reported EBITDA for 2021H1 at $52.7M, up slightly from guidance at the company’s annual general meeting in February of $47-50M but down from 77.9M a year ago. The company also decreased its current liabilities to 17% of total assets, funding more of its operations with internal resources. The company’s slightly improved half-year results occur as a return to normality in North America is expected, a major area for the company’s revenue.
New York International Spirits Competition award for best single malt.02/06/2021
The annual competition to assess spirits from all over the world has judged the best single malts across several product age categories. Some noteworthy medal winners: This year’s award medals for the top entrants: Ardbeg Uigeadail; Glenmorangie Signet; Oban (14 YO); and Talisker (10 YO). Other prizes were awarded: Blended scotch whiskey of the year: Insurrection Single Grain Scotch (25YO); Best 20 YO single malt: Mortlach (20YO); Best 18 YO single malt: Glenmorangie (18YO).
Glenmorangie is launching a single malt scotch for mixed drinks.02/06/2021
The company had the idea from the dream to create an even wider flavour potential within the single malt category by targeting the mixed drink option. The products were born after consultation with bartenders to collect feedback, eventually leading to the development of a sweeter and richer single malt product. The company supports this initiative by producing a series of simple mixed drinks, based on 2-4 ingredients, and which are easy to make at home.
Diageo releases a 54-year-old single malt scotch.02/06/2021
The Singleton, a Diageo brand, will release a second and final bottling under the Paragon of Time Collection, a 54-year-old vintage single malt Scotch whiskey from 1966. The release contains only 235 bottles, available in June via specialty retailers, and with a recommended retailing price of $40,100 per 750ml bottle.
Mainstem Malt28/05/2021
Mainstem Malt, a well-known craft maltster in the USA Pacific Northwest, has launched a crowd funding campaign to invite hundreds of new shareholders as equity investors.
Groupe Soufflet and InVivo28/05/2021
Groupe Soufflet announced the signing of the formal agreement regarding the acquisition of Groupe Soufflet by InVivo. The combination of the two French international groups will create a pillar of French food sovereignty.
Muntons produces products for left hand customers.11/05/2021
May 7, 2021
Muntons announced the first of a series of inclusive and accessible products with its customers with the ‘left-handed malt sack’ which makes it easier to open for those left-hand dominant. The company wanted to make sure its customers have an option when ordering malt to choose from the right or left leaning sacks. Advancements like this help brewing shift workers to operate more efficiently, regardless of whether they are left or right hand focused.
Malt News
07/05/2021
Crisp Malt announced a new cooperation with The Port of Leith Distillery whereby the malting company sources all the grain from Upper Bolton Farm, outside of Edinburgh. This barley will be malted in the Crisp’s Alloa maltings and following the malt will be transported to the distillery located 45 miles away.
Boortmalt announced the reopening of its Cavan malting plant in South Australia which results from the increased demand for brewing and distilling malts in the Asia Pacific doubling Boortmalt capacity in SA. The timing of the reopening was aided by the close proximity to the Port of Adelaide and Boortmalt’s other malting facility in the region. The re-opening is scheduled for the middle of 2021, after quality and production upgrades, generating an additional annual capacity of 77,000 tons of malt.
Riverbend Malt announced a partnership with New Belgium Brewery to include a portion of a flavourful base malt produced with 2-row barley grown in North Carolina, called Southern Select, to be incorporated in the brewing’s Old Tuffy Premium Lager. New Belgium Brewing sees this as a cooperation to build relationships with local farmers, businesses and purveyors close by the second home of the company in Asheville.
World’s 10 most wanted single malts whiskys.28/04/2021
Wine-Searcher, a web search engine that, globally, enables users to locate the price and availability of a given wine, whiskey, spirit or beer with direction to a business selling the alcoholic beverage. One interesting result was the identification the following 10 single malt whiskys as the most wanted: Mallacan 18-YO Sherry Oak ($823); Yamazaki 12-YO ($197); Yamazaki 18-YO ($968), Mallacan Fine & Rare Vintage ($42,300); Glenfiddich 12-YO ($44); Springbank Local Barley 10-YO ($293); Mallacan Edition no 1 ($2,716); Mallacan Sherry Oak 25-YO ($2,385); Ardbeg Arrrrrrrdbeg ($248); Mallacan Limited Edition Classic Cut ($130).
University of Eastern Finland23/04/2021
University of Eastern Finland issued a study, published in the journal Science of Food, that highlighted the process of turning cereal grains into malts also generates residual material. This residual material is a good source of plant-based protein and phytochemicals, including bioactive compounds produced by plants, that function as antioxidants. The study utilized metabolomics to analyze samples of four cereal crops often utilized in the malting process: barley, rye, wheat, and oats.
Compass Box’s Menagerie Blended Malt whisky arrives in the US12/04/2021
Compass Box announced recently the arrival in the US, of a limited-edition Menagerie Blended Malt Whisky. This whisky is described as an exploration of Scotch whisky’s wilder side and has a 46% adv, with just 7,741 bottles being distributed globally. The blend is formed of whisky from five distilleries: Mortlach Distillery, Deanston Distillery, Laphroaig Distillery, Glen Elgin Distillery and Compass Box Highland Malt Blend. The blend has an underneath fruitiness/ maltiness and subtle animalic notes.
Boortmalt’s UK subsidiary Pauls Malt are investing £12M09/04/2021
Boortmalt’s UK subsidiary Pauls Malt are investing £12M in its UK plant in Buckie, to ramp up capacity by 50% to support growing demand for malt in Scottish whisky distilling and brewing. The increased capacity will reach 90,000 tons per year and is planned to be commissioned by the end of 2021.
Pauls Malt succeeded in increasing profits during 202009/04/2021
Pauls Malt succeeded in increasing profits during 2020, despite the COVID-19 situation and the related impact to the brewing industry. The result was helped by whisky distilling customers continuing to operate throughout the pandemic. Overall, 2020 sales for the malting group (part of Boortmalt) decreased in the UK by 20% YoY and decreased globally as well, but the shining start was the rest of Europe which increased 210%.
First American Single Malt Whiskey26/03/2021
Dampfwerk Distillery, Minnesota (USA) has launched the first American single malt whiskey, made from 100% Minnesota sourced pale ale and chocolate malt. The whiskey is first barreled in American white oak barrels and finished on a selection of red wine barrels. Official taste notes from the distillery show that the single malt contains flavours of deep fruit, chocolate, toffee and caramel notes.
Malt beverages expand market presence in Stanford (California)26/03/2021
Two businesses, FiveStar convenience store and The Stanford Food Mart & Donut Shop, in Stanford were approved by Alcoholic Beverages Control for malt beverage package licenses. A further 9 businesses published their intent to sell malt beverages (in The Interior Journal) and are awaiting approval. The result will be expanded shelf space for malt beverages.
Boortmalt12/03/2021
Boortmalt’s focus on distilling barley quality is growing in regard to crop contracts entered into with Irish growers. The company is contracting Wexford, UK growers to deliver 50% of their malting barley at below 9.8% protein. This represents an increase of 20 percent (from 30% to 50%) for the low-protein distilling quality requirement contracted.
Bairds Malt12/03/2021
Bairds Malt has launched a new product: Malt 2.0 to showcase the development of malt produced using new barley varieties introduced to the UK through the Early Evaluation Programme. This is a trial programme through the company and their merchanting partner (Scotgrain Agriculture) to identify and introduce new barley varieties, for the UK market. At the heart of Malt 2.0 is the KWS Sassy variety, a bold barley variety, particularly well-suited to the variable growing conditions in the Scottish climate while providing a consistently higher yield to its growers.
Top 20 single malt whiskies around the world27/02/2021
International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) published, end of February 2021, the results concerning the top 20 whiskies around the world as follows, coming from Europe, Asia, Australia and the US. The full list can be found at https://iwsc.net/
Boortmalt, BASF and Sustainable Agriculture Initiative (SAI)26/02/2021
Boortmalt, BASF and Sustainable Agriculture Initiative (SAI) Platform are cooperating to implement BASF AgBalance assessment tool with 800 Irish farmers. The initiative will also allow farmers to achieve an independent verification for the sustainability of their crop production. Boortmalt also announced it received a B score in the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) 2020 report, both for climate change and water conservation.
Malteries Soufflet to reduce its transport carbon emissions 5% by 202426/02/2021
Malteries Soufflet signed a commitment through FRET21 to reduce its transport carbon emissions 5% by 2024. Through the commitment, the company will focus on four key elements: degree of loading, the driven distance, the type of transport, and sustainable sourcing.
Malteurop12/02/2021
At the end of 2020, Malteurop’s Spanish operation established a bespoke craft brewing division, named InterMaltaCraft, aimed to focus on the local market. This follows a similar path taken by Boortmalt via its divisions such as Belgomalt, Les Malteries, Pauls Malt to focus on the craft brewing sector.
Boortmalt Group12/02/2021
Sapporo launched a new beer brand in Japan, “Extra Malt”, using a new Canadian malt produced by Prairie Malt (part of Boortmalt Group). The malt is using PlatinumStar barley variety developed by Sapporo, which contains a reduction of lipids that results in enhanced and prolonged product freshness as well as improved foam stability.
Malt Apprenticeship Week
10/02/2021
Muntons Plc held the National Apprenticeship Week 2021 between February 8th and 14th. The event was targeted not only for school leavers, but also to support the development for the leaders of tomorrow.
Scotch Whisky hit by US tariffs03/02/2021
The Scotch Whisky Association reports that Scotch Whisky exports have experienced losses of £500million, due to the import tariffs imposed by the US, in retaliation against the EU subsidies given to aircraft maker Airbus. Latest figures suggest that single malt exports have fallen by more than a third, since a 25% tariff was imposed in 2019.
The 5 Best Single Malt Scotch Whiskies to sample in 2021.03/02/2021
Single malt Scotch Whiskies offer unique flavour and ‘character’ with a spirit of the place and people that crafted them. The following 5 single malt whiskies are recommended to be trialed in 2021: Ancnoc 18 year old, Balblair 18 years old, Bunnahabhain 12 year old, Old Pulteney 18 year old, and Tobermory 23 years old.
Belgomalt releases a spiced malt21/01/2021
At the end of 2020, Belgomalt Belgium, released a Winter infusion malt series formed by adding spice into the malting process. The malt series, to be fully disclosed in 2021, contains three different malts – infusion 1, infusion 2 and infusion 3. This innovation is in response to changing consumer demands for more unique and varied beer offering.
Suntory single malt whiskey returns20/01/2021
The 12-year single malt Japanese whiskey Hakushu, produced by Suntory, is being sold again, after being discontinued two years ago. The whiskey is distilled in the northern region of the Southern Japanese Alps. The whiskey will be available in Japan from March 30th at a price of ¥8,500 (USD80) for a 23.7-ounce bottle.
Craft Malt Conference goes virtual.18/01/2021
This year, the North America Craft Maltsters Guild decided to move the fourth annual Craft Malt Conference to a virtual space. The conference is scheduled to take place between February 10th and 12th. The guild is expecting that a virtual event will also increase the participation, making the conference more accessible.
Boortmalt started production16/01/2021
Boortmalt started production in their new 60k ton malting plant in Ethiopia, which is situated about 100 km from Addis Ababa. In conjunction with other local maltings, Ethiopia will be malt self-sufficient for the foreseeable future. From a local sourcing perspective, Boortmalt intends to procure malting barley from 40,000 smallholder farmers.
Four beers brewed with South Carolina’s first malt22/12/2020
Frothy Beard Beer company brewed four beers, including a new red IPA, using Palmetto Malt’s St George malt, the
first and only Southern malting business. The craft malt house was opened in autumn 2019. Since then, Palmetto Malt was used by many local craft breweries – Fat Pig Brewing Co, Baker and Brewer, Hobcaw Brewing Company, Frothy Beard.
21/12/2020
Up North Distillery based in Idaho announced the release of their first single malt whiskey. The North Idaho Single Malt Whiskey is distilled from 100% malted barley sourced locally (grown in Northwest) and aged in American oak barrels. The approach follows the company goal to create products “farm to flask”.
Wheat and barley malt syrup – a high maltose natural ingredient18/12/2020
‘Sweet Pure M’, a wheat and barley malt syrup ia a high maltose syrup produced from the combination of wheat starch with barley malt through mild processing in order to meet the ISO ‘natural’ definition. With the production process and natural definition, this syrup is fit for use in end-products, (e.g., baking and cereal applications) wishing to make a natural claim.
Bushmills’ oldest single malt whiskey14/12/2020
Causeway Collection, revealed by Bushmills, contains 10 cask-finished single malts which vary in age from 9 to 30 years old and will be introduced one brand at a time. Recently, the company revealed its 30-year-Old New American Oak cask single malt. There are 432 bottles in total, with the first 100 being available in 2020 at a price of €700 (US$851) per 700ml with the remaining 332 bottles will be available in 2021.
Palmetto Malt and Steel Hands Brewery sign a new partnership03/12/2020
The two companies signed a partnership for Steel Hands Brewery to access malt produced locally, in the state of South Carolina. The planted barley and the produced malt will be used by Steel Hands in its beers during 2021. This is part of initiatives to support restaurants campaigns “from farm to table”.
A second distillery to be launched in the Isle of Skye02/12/2020
The second legal distillery to be built on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, will soon launch release a rare offering of a peated single malt whiskey, known as Torabhaig Legacy Series 2017. Production of this limited offering started in January 2017, by a team of nine distillers. The first whiskey is planned for release by February 2021, at a price tag of £50 ($70 USD).
Master of Malt relaunches #WhiskeySanta campaign26/11/2020
The online retailer, Master of Malt, is relaunching its popular campaign #WhiskeySanta, according to which customers and social media users can “wish” for any products on the site using the campaign #-tag, and Santa will make some of these wishes come true. The company set aside a budget of £250,000 for this promotion.
A 38-year-old single malt scotch whiskey26/11/2020
A Diageo owned distillery, Singleton of Glen Old distillery, located in the Highland whisky region of Scotland, released a 38-year-old whiskey with the longest secondary maturation process in Singleton’s history at 26 years. Maureen Robinson, Diageo Master of Malts, discovered, 26 years ago, a 12-year old single malt whisky that she put through a second maturation process. This whisky is drawn from just 8 casks and only 1,689 bottles are available worldwide and available globally for £2,100 ($2,800 USD) per bottle.
United Malt affirms that China barley ban is felt around the world12/11/2020
China’s heavy demand of US corn has pushed up prices of barley and corn in Canada, where these grains sourced in the US are used as feed grains. This is part of part of the second phase of the trade deal with Washington and its decision to exclude Australian barley – China decided to introduce tariffs on Australia’s barley. In corroboration with a less good China crop.
01/07/2021
- Heineken is supporting a long-term contract with a Dutch battery powered container carrier, Zero Emissions Services BV, that will deploy a self-propelled container utilizing only battery power. The company was founded to make inland shipping more sustainable.
- Birra Peroni, an Asahi brand, has launched a traceability solution on the public Ethereum blockchain for supply chain offered by Ernest and Young, called EY OpsChain Traceability. This is part of the company’s ‘100% made in Italy’ malt initiative, a fundamental strategic asset for the company.
- Molson Coors is negotiating a contract to underpin a 10-year deal with RWE
(German energy company which generates and trades electricity) to provide 75GW hours of renewable energy per year (equivalent to energy used by around 25,000 households). In turn, this energy will enable the production of 1B pints each year in the UK with 100% renewable energy. - Sinebrychoff brewery, the oldest brewery in Nordic countries and the oldest foodstuff company in Finland, has been producing its beverages with 100% renewable energy since the beginning of 2021. By compensating the rest of the emissions, the company beer and soft drink production is carbon free. The company is the world’s first carbon neutral manufacturing of Coca-Cola.
- Diageo launches Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiative, a standalone business called Pronghorn, to boost Black community investment in the spirits industry. Pronghorn plans to boost brands and businesses to help the Black community gain greater involvement in the spirits marketplace. Diageo has teamed up with industry veterans Dia Simms and Erin Harris to launch this DEI initiative.
- Absolut announced a trial for 2,000 paper-based bottles across Sweden and the UK to test the viability of paper as an alternative to single use plastics in beverage applications. The first prototype has 100% recycled content, with 57% paper and 43% recycled plastic, with the latter used to create a barrier layer for the bottle.
- Simpson Malt has announced that a total of 28 trucks of their haulage fleet at the Tweed Valley Maltings have switched from diesel to HVO – a synthetic, paraffinic fuel made from 100% renewable raw materials and supplied by Crown Oil Ltd. The impact is reduced net carbon emissions by 90%, equating to nearly 4,000 tons of CO2 being removed. The synthetic HVO also reduces NOx emissions by up to 27% and particulate matter by up to 84%.
- Boortmalt’s Antwerp plant is using a breakthrough technology to reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption. The technology belongs to Opinch, an Antwerp scaleup, that introduces, via a patented and novel approach, a technology that overcomes the hurdles faced by conventional technologies to upgrade waste heat into process heat.
- Soufflet announced, on the Day of Safety, the “WeDoSafe” programme, aimed at ensuring the safety of the company employees and collaborators.
- Unilever is introducing fully recyclable toothpaste tubes in its oral care brands as part of wider plans to convert the entire toothpaste portfolio to widely recyclable packaging by 2025. The initiative will commence with France and India, two of the biggest markets of the company. The company is using High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), which is one of the most widely recyclable plastics globally. In a similar move, GSK Consumer Healthcare, has committed to making more than 1B toothpaste tubes recyclable by 2025.
- A university student, Lucy Hughes, created a plastic alternative from fish waste called MarinaTex, using byproducts of the fishing industry (i.e., fish skin, scales). This product is intended to replace plastic typically used in bakery bags, sandwich packs and tissue boxes and has already won the international James Dyson award.
- New Belgium Co, an American craft brewer, has created the first nationally distributed carbon neutral beer, which is a new product intended to focus efforts on tackling climate change. The beer, ‘Torched Earth Ale’ uses ingredients such as dandelions, hop extracts and smoke-tainted water as a replacement of the usual purified ingredients used to make beer. These ingredients make for a smokey flavoured ale, with not such a nice taste, to mimic a beer made with the kind of ingredients that would be available in a climate-ravaged future.
Toast Ale is an award-winning beer brewed with fresh surplus bread from local sandwich makers and bakeries, together with malted barley, hops, yeast and water. The beer is supplied to pubs, bars and events in reusable kegs. For the production process, the partner brewers have onsite wind turbines and source barley from local farms.
First carbon neutral brewery01/07/2021
Budweiser’s Wuhan brewery (China) is to become the first carbon neutral brewery globally within the AB InBev network before the end of the year. The brewery was built 25 years ago.
AB InBev details its 2025 Sustainability Goals01/07/2021
AB InBev 2025 Sustainability Goals – Smart Agriculture, Water Stewardship, Circular Packaging and Climate Action. To achieve its Smart Agriculture goals, the company is building a community of skilled, connected and financially empowered farmers, across 13 countries and five countries.
Sustainability News28/05/2021
- Corona, an AB InBev brand, has launched the Plastic Free Challenge within the 100+ Accelerator, a global programme founded in 2018 by the company to accelerate sustainable solutions from start-ups. The initiative is intended to identify, fund and pilot sustainable solutions innovations for plastic reduction across the supply chain.
- AB InBev announced to use solar power to brew its Michelob Ultra-Pure Gold beer, to accommodate its environmentally conscious consumers. The beer is now brewed with 100% renewable energy.
- Coca Cola Co, Colgate-Palmolive and Unilever joined AB InBev’s 100+ Accelerator programme, a global incubator programme that wants to help solve supply chain challenges across water stewardship, circular economy, sustainable agriculture and climate action. Also, AB InBev has announced the opening of its third cohort of the accelerator, with submissions possible until May 31st.
- ZX Ventures, the ventures and innovation arm of AB InBev, and its BioBrew division are working with Clara Foods to scale up their technology to make animal-free egg whites through precision fermentation.
- Heineken brewery in Finland will be supplied energy from the Neoen Mutkalampi wind farm, under a ten-year deal as part of a Dutch Consortium formed by Heineken, Nobian, Philips, and Signify. The wind turbines are supplied by manufacturer, Vestas.
- Heineken has launched a sustainable cider brand, called Inch’s. The drink is made from 100% British apples, sourced from within 40 miles of the supplier’s mill, with all waste resulting from apples processing being converted into green energy.
- Heineken and Pepsico have joined the Climate Pledge, an initiative co-founded by Amazon in 2019 that is calling on companies to reach the Paris Agreement 10-years earlier than the initial target. The Climate Pledge has now more than 100 signatories with over $1.4trillion in global annual revenues and more than 5 million employees.
- Molson Coors is removing plastic rings and introducing a fully recyclable and sustainable cardboard sleeve for beverage can multipacks for all major brands in the UK, including Carling and Molson Canadian. The concerned brands will join the Franciscan Well range in Ireland by providing consumers with plastic free packaging.
- Coors Seltzer is partnering with ‘Change the Course’, a non-profit organization that brings organizations and the public together to raise awareness in reducing water footprint. Each six-pack sold will save 1,000 liters of Canada’s water systems.
- Beginning in May, Carlsberg has inaugurated a new and revolutionary water plant that recycles 90% of the process water at the Carlsberg brewery in Fredericia (Denmark), making the brewery the most water efficient in the world. With this technology, the brewery will save more than 500M liters of water a year, leading to halved water consumption per hl beer (1.4hl vs 2.9hl). The company has a goal of zero water waste globally by 2030.
- Carlsberg is supporting research in growing microalgae in waste water from brewing, as brewery water contains all the nutrients algae needs to grow. The research is done by Yanyan Su (PhD), as part of the Young Scientists Community. Microalgae is a wonderous organism that can be used among other things to power cars.
- Muntons is on the path to reduce their GHG emissions, by reducing their carbon footprint for barley supply chain by 32% and processing GHG emissions by 24% over the past 12 years. The latest project in this area being a £16.5M biomass project built by AMP Clean Energy and Vital Energy.
- Diageo started to work with Encirc to source low carbon bottles for their whiskey brands. The same supplier offers similar options to Heineken and Molson Coors.
- Mother Earth Brewery is focused on saving the planet, in everything they do. The company employs initiatives from using locally grown hops, donating their used grains back to farmers for animal feed and creating farmer partnerships to grow carbon reducing crops next to barley. In addition, recycling water, solar energy panels, eco-friendly buildings, and employees walking/biking to work.
- SUNCAT Centre for Interface Science and Catalysis is engaged in research to find ways to transform captured CO2 into chemicals, fuels and other products including methanol, plastics, detergents, synthetic natural gas. This is achieved via a form of artificial photosynthesis – the technology under research is intended to convert CO2 from industrial emissions into carbon based products.
- The Dutch Government allocated €2B to a project to capture and store carbon dioxide in an empty gas chamber under the North Sea. The Porthos project involves four companies and it is the first large scale carbon capture scheme in the Netherlands.
23/04/2021
- AB InBev has inaugurated the Environmental, Social & Governance report, alongside with the 2020 Annual report, to fully capture all initiatives touched upon by the company in the area of Corporate Social Responsibility.
- Heineken announced a new ambition to decarbonize their brewing production by 2030 and their full value-chain by 2040. This is the first in a series of refreshed, ‘Brew a Better World’ ambitions, which form and important part of the company’s new EverGreen balanced growth strategy. The company is taking a science-based approach by working closely with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) to validate its new commitment. Beyond an aim to become carbon neutral for all production sites, the company intends to work with suppliers to reduce emissions by 30% across the entire value chain as measure from a 2018 baseline.
- Heineken Malaysia is sharpening its water efforts with the company adopting further their ‘Every Drop’ water ambition strategy. One of the initiatives is to ensure 100% of wastewater is treated before returning the clean water back to the source. Another initiative is investing RM19.5M to protect water sources via the SPARK Foundation, which falls under the Brewer’s corporate social responsibility area.
- Heineken Spain announced their factory in Jaen is the first in the country to run on 100% renewable energy, due in part to biomass generated from material in local olive groves. The factory will receive up to 6,000 tons of pruning waste annually from olive groves within a 90km radius of the brewery and contributing approximately 70% of the energy needs.
- Heineken UK is transforming unconsumed beer, as a result of Covid-19 forced pub closures, into green energy as part of its ‘Brewing A Better World’ sustainability strategy. The company is emptying thousands of kegs into a biogas generating system which supplements the site’s energy needs. Since May 2020, the company has processed 6,989,640 pints and created enough energy to heat nearly 28,000 average UK homes for a day.
- Molson Coors has become the first UK brewer to operate entirely by renewable energy. The company signed a power purchase agreement with renewable energy company RWE, for a period of 10 years. RWE will provide approximately 75 gigawatt of a renewable energy a year. Editor Note: MolsonCoors and their partner will present this story during the RMI Swiss Summit on May 18 & 19.
- Carlsberg and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) are collaborating to restore seagrass alongside the UK coastline. Known as the ‘underwater Amazon’, seagrass meadows can absorb carbon up to 35 times faster than a rainforest. It is believed the UK has over time lost 90% of the traditional seagrass meadows and a recovery plan is much needed. By restoring the seagrass, not only will carbon absorption return, but also vital habitats provide spawning, nursery and feeding ground for sea life will reappear.
- Carlsberg’s new HQ in Copenhagen features a number of construction durables, natural materials and eco-friendly features. These features include such things as recycled copper and bamboo, solar panels, green roofs, water savings fixtures and heat recovery ventilation systems all intended to exemplify the possibilities in building a sustainable office building.
- Carlsberg Group joins the PEFerence consortium, as a partner in the development of the bio-based PEF packaging material which is aimed to reduce the waste and carbon footprint for the Brewer. The company also deepens the collaboration with Avantium, a plant-based polymer company. Carlsberg and Avantium are already working on a fully bio-based and recyclable Green Fibre Bottle, produced by Paboco – the Paper Bottle Company.
- Belgomalt is actively engaged to support local Belgium farmers and create malt from barley grown on Belgium soils. As consumers continue to demand more locally sourced and produced products, these efforts in Belgium help bring local barley to beer consumers in the form of delicious Belgium beers.
- On ‘World Water Day’, CEOs from 16 leading corporations, including ABInBev, Diageo, Heineken, Coca Cola Company, Ecolab, Cargill, who have pledged in an open letter to improve the way they use and manage water to ensure ample and resilient freshwater resources for all.
- Craft brewers are getting more and more concerned about brewing in a sustainable way. As their resources are limited in comparison with bigger brewers, they are employing creative and unique ways to decrease their use of natural resources – upcycling used water, taking land stewardship initiatives, recovering carbon-dioxide from the fermentation cycle, buying ingredients from local small-scale malt and hops growers, and various tactics to capture wastewater from the brewing process. All these small advances make a difference and also show the innovative drive of craft brewers.
- BrewDog is launching the first carbon-negative beer club. The company will ship, based on a monthly subscription arrangement, boxes of craft beer which will be brewed under license at BrewDog’s carbon neutral Ellon brewery. For every box of beer shipped BrewDog, which is officially claimed as a carbon-negative business and was recently awarded B Corp status, promised to offset 2.5kg of CO2.
- Harvard University scientists are proposing a plan to dim sunlight in order to cool down the planet. The scientists propose to launch a huge balloon into the stratosphere, carrying 600kg of calcium carbonate (chalk), which would be sprayed 12 miles above the Earth’s surface. The theory is the chalk would reflect sunlight and in turn slow the process of global warming. Some experts predict the sky would also shift from blue to white during daylight hours. The idea was announced first in December 2020, and recently received support from Bill Gates.
26/03/2021
Sustainability linked loans are becoming increasingly in demand after the agreement made by ABInBev for such a loan facility. More recently the electricity company Enel signed a €10bn sustainability linked revolving credit facility early Marc
Kraft Heinz is piloting a new roof technique in US26/03/2021
Kraft Heinz is piloting a new roof technique in US factories (Beaver Dam, WI and Holland, MI) with the installation of roofs made from recycled plastic packaging. The roof boards are 4ft by 8ft in dimension and contain 94% of post-consumer plastic and fiber. The company is monitoring the performance of such materials versus conventional building materials.
Viking Malt has received the Platinum Medal in the latest EcoVadis Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) rating.26/03/2021
Viking Malt has received the Platinum Medal in the latest EcoVadis Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) rating. This performance placed the company in the top 1% of all companies evaluated by EcoVadis and in the top 2% in the category of Manufacture of Malt liquors and The Malt industry.
Holland Malt with a goal to be source 100% sustainable barley by 2025.26/03/2021
Holland Malt as a member of the Sustainable Agriculture Initiative (SAI) Platform (established in 2002) continues to accelerate the widespread adoption of sustainable agriculture practices with a goal to be source 100% sustainable barley by 2025.
Malteurop’s malthouse at Aire-sur-la-Lys26/03/2021
Malteurop’s malthouse at Aire-sur-la-Lys has been certified for the production of organic malt as the configuration of the malthouse allows for production of small batches using organic barley from growers in the French Champagne Region. In conjunction, the company can offer customers full traceability for malt from grain to glass.
Carlsberg Group is expanding its sustainability linked bonus scheme26/03/2021
Carlsberg Group is expanding its sustainability linked bonus scheme for its senior executives with corporate social responsibility (CSR) and environmental issues taking a larger slice of the annual bonuses for those executives in the program.
Carlsberg Russia26/03/2021
Carlsberg Russia is collaborating 70 of their malting barley farmers to trial and implement barley varieties developed by the Carlsberg lab with a goal to be more sustainable than current varieties. Higher yield (+10%), and lower fertilizer usage are key attributes for these new varieties.
Molson Coors and Heineken are both launching (separately) a beer bottle produced with a 90% lower carbon footprint.26/03/2021
Molson Coors and Heineken are both launching (separately) a beer bottle produced with a 90% lower carbon footprint. The beer bottle supplier for both brewers is Encirc, who utilizes up to 100% recycled or used glass (increased from 75%) and also deploys renewable energy and biofuels in their bottle manufacturing. The bottles will be introduced throughout the UK during 2021.
Heineken Sri Lanka has advanced inclusion and diversity26/03/2021
Heineken Sri Lanka has advanced inclusion and diversity, through the hiring of Mayanthi Wickremetilleke as Director Corporate Affairs and a member of the Senior Management Team. Ms. Wickremetilleke was the former Country Lead Sustainable Business and Communication at Unilever and holds 13+ years’ experience in the FMCG industry.
AB InBev India champions diversity and inclusion initiatives26/03/2021
AB InBev India champions diversity and inclusion initiatives through new people policies, including unlimited wellness leaves, and flexible four-week paternity leave. With such initiatives, the company is committed to an inclusive culture for the benefit of all employees.
23/07/2021
The extraordinary results of a 3D printed steel bridge in Amsterdam are a case in point. The MX3D bridge was the result of a project from a list of prestigious partners: Imperial College London, computing firm Lenovo, The Alan Turing Institute, and Arup engineers. According to Arup, the experiment opens a world of possibilities for architects, engineers and designers, promoting greater form freedom, with new forms and structures only possible through 3D printing.
22/07/2021
Will Bitcoin futures be the next products offered by Exchanges? The Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) Group is aiming to boost revenues from bitcoin futures by launching a micro bitcoin futures product which opens the door to a wider customer base.
Are the days of carrying cash gone?22/07/2021
Probably not, but the amount of cash in circulation is being reduced considerably. According to Worldpay, physical cash payments will represent only 7% of all UK shop payments by 2024, while Canada and Australia follow the same pattern. Even further, Sweden is projected to be cashless in three years with mobile and contactless payments dominating the marketplace.
E-commerce is here to stay.22/07/2021
During the pandemic, e-Commerce has made great advances and the growth trend continues with a Czech start-up, Rohlik, offering on-line grocery services. The company is currently offering services to 750,000 customers in the Czech Republic, Hungary and Austria with plans to expand into Germany, Italy and Romania while also automating warehouses with their latest round of funding.
The new holiday frontier is in space. Are you ready to explore space?22/07/2021
Is it already possible to book holidays in space? It appears so, as the first space tourism agency has opened in the UK, by London based RocketBreaks. The agency offers services and packages which include day trips into space, weightlessness experiences, and boarding the Aurora Space Station. Trips include flight, accommodation, meals, and the training programmes in preparation for the journeys into space.
Are flying cars a near-term reality?22/07/2021
Hyundai believes it is possible, as declared by their CEO during a motor conference. Flying cars are a possible solution to address traffic congestion and reduce emissions at the same time. The company believes flying cars will be available yet this decade, and the company is planning the first electrical vertical take-off and landing (eVOTL) airport in the UK.
22/07/2021
Budweiser UK, a subsidiary of AB InBev, is investing £72M at their Magor brewery, will increase brewing capacity by 1.6 million hectolitres (equivalent of 280M pints) and create 32 new jobs by year-end.
Russia is moving into a new phase of lower alcohol beer consumption.22/07/2021
ABInBev Efes, the Russian partnership between AB InBev & Efes, expects double digit growth in non-alcoholic beer sales in future years after the Covid-19 pandemic placed increased focus on healthier lifestyles. Overall non-alcoholic beer sales jumped 20% in 2020, with on-line non-alcoholic beer sales increasing 400% in Q1 over the previous year. The share of the non-alcoholic beer in the Russian market accounts for over 2%, still lower than countries like Spain (11%) or Germany (8%).
Craft beer phenomena is now spreading into Russia.22/07/2021
Carlsberg aims to open more craft beer retail stores across Russia with a plan to make a 4x increase in the number of stores during 2021 by supporting the development of Tank & Hopper’s franchise network through its subsidiary, HoppyUnion.
Local raw materials through to exported beer – the full supply chain under focus is great to see.22/07/2021
Carlsberg Azerbaijan signed a memorandum of understanding with the country’s Economy Ministry stipulating the company will work toward further localization of their raw material base, modernization of the enterprise, reduction of product losses and improvement in workplace safety measures. Under the memorandum, $14.7M will be invested in promoting beer exports and in projects which increase the competitiveness of “Made in Azerbaijan” products, including beer.
Carlsberg fills the critical supply chain role22/07/2021
Carlsberg Group appoints Victor Shevtsov, who joined the company in 2015 as the VP for integrated supply chain in Asia along with a long career with PepsiCo, as the new executive VP for their integrated supply chain role and will also join the executive committee for the group.
Molson Coors expanding portfolio22/07/2021
Since taking over the top job, Molson Coors’ CEO, Gavin Hattersley is mainly focused to learn beyond beer as energy drinks, THC and CBD infused beverages, hard seltzers and plant-based diet sodas, fundamentally change the company’s portfolio. All of this is being triggered by rapid shifts in consumers’ taste and buying preferences. From the CEO: “it was clear that people were looking for other alternatives and other choices and we were being at a clear disadvantage because we didn’t play in some of those spaces”.
Molson Coors betting on hard seltzer success outside the USA22/07/2021
Molson Coors announced a £25M investment in their Burton-upon-Trent brewery, including a new hard seltzer canning line plus upgrades to the beer and cider packaging lines. The investment is supported by the success of the hard-seltzer category in the US and a view this success will transfer into Europe. For example, US hard seltzer sales reached $2.7B in 2020 and already commands 2.6% market share for total alcohol beverage sales in the US.
Can airline seats become double-decked in design?08/07/2021
One such project, by 21 year old student Alejandro Nunez Vincente, at TU Delft University (NL), made the shortlist in the Chaise Longue Economy Seat Project. The project envisages a dual-level seat cabin, with each row alternating between on-floor seating, and seats elevated a few feet above ground.
08/07/2021
United Airlines is betting that it does, by plunking down $3B for 15 aircraft from Boom Technology’s Overture Aircraft. The jets will fly twice as fast as conventional planes, making trips from Tokyo to San Francisco for example, 6 hours long versus the previous ~11 hours. These new planes fly faster than the Concorde, breaking sound barrier only over the ocean, and cost 75% less to operate while using fully sustainable aviation fuel with a target for net zero carbon emissions. The jets will be ready for operation in 2029.
08/07/2021
Major tech companies are introducing new virtual communication tools which include holograms and 3-D screens. Holograms are no longer just something in a Star Trek scene as companies like WeWork is bringing holograms into 100 buildings across 16 locations globally including New York, Los Angeles and Miami. As well, Google announced Project ‘Starline’, a video chat system with screens that give workers 3-D video views.
How extensive is the ‘work from home’ trend?08/07/2021
Working from home has become increasingly entrenched by employees following the extended pandemic restrictions. As a consequence, companies are announcing total or partial working from home policies to extend ‘work from home’ even as restrictions are lifted. Recently big companies like KPMG, PWC, and EY have made publicly commitments to a hybrid work model, while Deloitte UK announced permanent flexible working policies. The European Commission expects a reduction by 50% of the number of buildings in use by 2030, mainly through the embracing of wider ‘working from home’ approaches. Staying a home reduces CO2 emissions as a great number of commuters are eliminated from the daily routine.
Hexo acquires Redecan08/07/2021
Hexo, the large Canadian cannabis producer, acquired Redecan, Canada’s largest privately owned licensed producer to further cement Hexo’s position within this growing market. The deal is valued at CAD925M and upon approval by shareholders will place the combined company on the verge becoming the top licensed cannabis producer, by recreational market share.
Canada is a testing ground for the anticipated US legalization for cannabis products08/07/2021
Boston Beer created a subsidiary to oversee research and innovation within non-alcoholic cannabis beverages. This subsidiary is located in Canada where cannabis has already achieved governmental legalization. The company would like to replicate its tremendous success in the hard seltzer craze (Truly).
Beverage companies offering both alcohol and non-alcohol products08/07/2021
PepsiCo is making several investments in the alcohol drinks area as the company recently registered the trademark ‘Rockstart’, intended to be used for beer, alcoholic fruit cocktail drinks, malt beverages and hard seltzers. This signals PepsiCo is considering product launches involving beer-centric and hard seltzer products in a similar fashion to main competitor Coca Cola. PepsiCo also plans a September introduction for a new line of premium, nonalcoholic cocktail mixers, branded ‘Unmuddled’ and designed for consumers seeking experimentation, flavour variety and creating bar quality drinks at home.
Portfolio diversification
08/07/2021
Constellation Brands acquired a minority stake in Dos Hombres, an artisanal and hand-crafted mescal brand created by the costars of Breaking Bad: Aaron Paul and Bryan Cranston. The investment supports the company’s strategy to make minority investments in high potential brands within growing beverage categories. The company notes that the overall US mescal category grew 14% during 2020.
Heineken consolidates their position08/07/2021
Heineken has taken a controlling interest in United Breweries Limited (UBL), India’s largest brewer as the world #2 brewer purchased 39.6M shares in UBL, pushing their holding to 61.5% (46.5% previously). The acquisition is worth 58.1B Indian rupees (USD781.3M), based on a share price of 1,466 Indian rupees.
Roving Robot transports beers!08/07/2021
Heineken has launched a roving robot, Beer Outdoor Transporter, designed to transport 12 cold beers. The devices are hard-sided coolers fitted with LiDAR sensors and AI to follow behind its master, being capable to traverse grass, gravel, dirt or other light off-road terrain. These unique beer transporters were only available to those who registered on July1st for a sweepstakes to win one of these beauties.
On-line deliveries and e-Commerce efforts08/07/2021
Carlsberg China collaborated with a Chinese online delivery platform in an effort to maintain sales during the pandemic. With the help of this platform, the company was able to connect with an increased number of beer customers. Successes like this, further support the Company’s focus on digitalization as a strategic priority going forward.
Champagne of Beers08/07/2021
The Milwaukee Wisconsin, USA) Common Council passed a resolution that creates the “Champagne of Beers” concept, by designating the Champagne of Beer Region, located on a portion of West State Street within the Miller Brewery grounds, part of the Molson Coors company footprint. The company introduced the Miller High Life in 1903 and marketed as the “Champagne of Beers” in 1906 and the Company maintains the same recipe (and iconic clear glass bottle shape).
08/07/2021
Molson Coors hard seltzer is launching a new alcohol infused ice cream as the company enlisted the ice cream at Tipsys Scoop. The products include Coors Seltzer ‘Orange Cream Pop Ice Cream’, with 5% abv and is available nationwide on-line as well as at Tipsy Scoop “barlours” in New York City and Long Island.
The worlds’ 40 largest fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies by sales?01/07/2021
OC&C Strategy Consultants’ report shows Nestle (CH) as the biggest FMCG with $93.1B in sales. Beverage companies are prominent on the list with PepsiCo (US) in 3rd place at $67.2B, AB InBev 5th with $52.3B, Coca-Cola Co (US) 8th with $37.2B, Heineken (NL) 13th with $26.8B, Asahi Breweries (Japan) 20th with $18.7B, Diageo (UK) 23rd with $16.3B, and Kirin Breweries (Japan) 36th with $11.5B.
The top 10 brands in 2020?01/07/2021
Such a ranking contains the following brand values: Apple $323B, Amazon $201B, Microsoft $166B, Google $165B, Samsung $62B, Coca-Cola $57B, Toyota $52B, Mercedes $49B, McDonald’s $43B, and Disney $41B.
The 100 biggest companies in the world in 2021 by market capitalization?01/07/2021
As of 31stMarch 2021, the world’s biggest companies are worth a record breaking $31.7trillion, up 48% year on year. The top 10 of these 100 companies are: Apple Inc (US) $2.1T; Saudi Aramco (Saudi Arabia) $1.9T; Microsoft Corp (US) $1.8T; Amazon Inc (US) $1.6T; Alphabet Inc (US) $1.4T; Facebook Inc (US) $839B; Tencent (China) $753B; Tesla Inc (US) $641B; Alibaba GRP (China) $615B; Berkshire Hathaway (US) $588B.
The Top 5 sectors, representing more than 81.7% of the market capitalization are: Technology 33%; Consumer Discretionary 18.9%; Financials 10.8%; Health Care 10.5%; and Energy 8.5%.
Is the new island hopper an eco-friendly vehicle?01/07/2021
This is what Hybrid Air Vehicles company wants to achieve with its Airlander 10, which is a 100-passenger airship that runs on helium and electricity. The airship is capable of flying at speeds of up to 130km/h and can be airborne for five continuous days. On a 300km flight, Airlander 10 produces only 10% of the CO2 emissions than regular airplanes.
01/07/2021
Of course not, but interesting alternatives are coming to the public with the world’s first electric flying race cars, which are remotely controlled multicopters, called Airspeeder. Alauda Aeronautics and its sister company Airspeeder have just announced that the Alauda Airspeeder Mk3, a four-meter-long multicopter, has taken its first unmanned test flights. The race has just completed the necessary tests to take off later this year in a series of international races.
Is cooking oil useable beyond just cooking?
01/07/2021
Air France believes so, as the company is developing sustainable aviation fuel as a mix of petroleum and synthetic jet fuel derived from used cooking oil, made by Total. The experimental fuel is being utilized on long-haul flights from Paris to Montreal. Air France KLM plans to make 5% of its fuel sustainable by 2030.
Molson Coors is boosting its seltzer portfolio01/07/2021
Molson Coors is boosting its seltzer portfolio with an investment of £5M in hard seltzer brand, ‘Three Fold’ along with the launching of ‘Proof Point Spirited Seltzer’ at the end of May. In the case of ‘Proof Point’, an alcoholic sparking water with 5% abv, is available in 27 US states, comprising four tastes: vodka seltzer with lime; whiskey seltzer with blackberry lemon; rum seltzer with mango and pineapple; and tequila seltzer with grapefruit.
Changes at Molson Coors01/07/2021
Molson Coors announced the appointment of Eric Gunning as its Corporate Secretary, in addition to his role of Company’s Deputy Chief Legal Officer. Mr Gunning served as Associate General Counsel, Chief Legal and Corporate Affairs Officer at Molson Coors International and VP of Global Legal and Corporate Affairs, prior to his current role.
Grimbergen Abbey Brewery opens01/07/2021
Grimbergen Abbey Brewery, for which Carlsberg holds a global license, has opened its doors again at the end of May, for the first time after 200 years. Beer was brewed at the Grimbergen Abbey some 900 years ago, stopping in 1789 when the building was destroyed during the French Revolution.
Changes at Carlsberg Group01/07/2021
Carlsberg Group announced a senior management changes as of June 1, with Executive VP Supply Chain, Phil Hodges leaving the company to pursue a career outside the Group. A replacement is to be announced in due course.
Heineken acquires additional shares of United Breweries01/07/2021
Heineken has acquired further tranches of United Breweries shares previously belonging the fugitive former chairman Vijay Mallya from the courts in charge for the properties and securities of the former chairman. Heineken’s stake has risen to 61.5% (from ~47% previously) as the Competition Commission of India did not oppose the increased stake in United Breweries.
SAB, (AB InBev’s South African company) is returning to investments in South Africa following a pause during the alcohol bans during the COVID pandemic.01/07/2021
The current plan is for an investment of R2B (USD140M) triggered by a belief the alcohol bans are fully in the past. These investments will upgrade operating facilities and systems along with new equipment aimed to support product innovation.
AB InBev invests in ready-to-drink cocktail company01/07/2021
AB InBev has invested in ready-to-drink cocktail company Canteen Spirits, via its global investment and innovation group – ZX Ventures. Canteen Spirits offers “Canteen”, a vodka based canned cocktail in seven distinct flavours; and “Cantina”, a tequila-based cocktail in three flavours.
Out of the Box Thinking & Food for Though11/06/2021
What are 2021 priorities for CEOs? An IBM 2021 CEO study reveals CEOs are prioritizing organizational agility, technology and managing emerging regulations for their companies. The study also reveals that CEOs see a top challenge “managing an anywhere workforce” which the pandemic brought into existence, and which now will remain in some form going forward. RMI – The traditional five-day journey into the office may be done for ever as companies apply their learnings after having gone through the pandemic. Taking the positives from this experience could provide a better work-life balance for employees in the future.
How will work locations be organized after lockdowns are lifted? Both employees and employers found that working from home (WFH) is actually not such a bad idea. On one side, workers’ productivity has been shown to increase (Bloomberg sites an increase of 5% in the USA). For the employee, three in four people find WFH a success (according to PWC), with some employees (64%) preferring a working from home option over increased pay. In order to be successful, WFH requires clear definition of rules and expectations, and redefinition of the office role through remodeling to promote collaboration and community building. RMI – The necessity of WFH during the pandemic is converting to a better way of working going forward, which is good for employers and employees if done properly.
Is a digital nomad the ultimate in work flexibility? A new term is being born – ‘digital nomad’, used by workers to live in a country of their choice, and using telecommunication technologies to earn a living, where location is not a limiting factor. Many countries (Madeira, Estonia, & Bahamas) which had their tourism industries hit by the pandemic are trying to attract digital nomads as a means to increase economic activity. are such countries/ locations. RMI – ‘Necessity is the mother of invention’ and if successful these countries will become more prosperous and less reliant upon tourism once travel returns to pre-Covid levels.
Is there is another flexible alternative to working from home and being a digital nomad? According to the Times, 300,000 businesses (including Unilever) across the globe, from Spain, New Zealand, Germany and Britain are exploring one such solution – a Four Day Week.
What are the top 10 job skills of tomorrow according to the WEF? The World Economic Forum sees 50% of all employees will need reskilling, as adoption of technology increases according to WEF’s Future of Jobs report. The report also identifies the following Top 10 skills in 2025: analytical thinking and innovation; active learning and learning strategies; complex problem solving; critical thinking and analysis; creativity, originality and initiative; leadership and social influence; technology use, monitoring and control; technology design and programming; resilience, stress tolerance and flexibility; reasoning, problem-solving and ideation. RMI – Technology is moving at a rapid pace; will companies be able to keep pace in their reskilling efforts? An important focus for the coming years.
Can the new Dutch bike garage design be associated with a space age airport for cyclists? This biking garage is designed to host 8,000 and it is organized as an ultra modern and futuristic location, similar to an airport.
28/05/2021
Are companies moving to recycling their own products? Several FMCGs and Big Brands are starting such initiatives. Levi’s is urging customers to buy less, re-use or repair their worn-out clothing. Ikea is starting its first second-hand shops and buy-back scheme for customers to return unwanted furniture and other items. Burger King is initiating a reusable packaging via which customers are charged a small deposit initially and then refunded when customers return with boxes and cups, which are taken away for cleaning and processing via the zero-waste e-commerce system, Loop.
Can a hotel generate energy, not only consume it? The designer for a floating hotel seems to think so. The eco-friendly hotel will generate its own energy by rotating all day in order to being located in areas with continuous water currents. The hotel is designed by Hayri Atak Architectural Design Studio, its construction started in March 2020 and is scheduled to be ready by 2025.
Could we cool buildings by means other than air conditioning? Engineers at Purdue University (USA) are working on this by creating the whitest paint yet that could help cool down buildings. The paint reflects 98% of the sun light and radiates infrared heat through the atmosphere and back into space.
Can the Dutch habit of living ‘on water’ help with climate change? The architects of the Schoonschip neighbourhood in Amsterdam proposed this floating ‘village’ to fight population density and sea levels challenges. The 46 homes are built on 30 floating arks and are designed to be mainly self-sufficient – energy comes from solar panels, heating from heat pumps, wastewater will be converted back into energy, and the dwellings’ roofs are green.
How can emissions from air travel be further reduced? By literally flying less: France aims to do so by banning short haul flights where travelling by train takes less than two hours and a half; Austrian Airlines replaced its flights between Vienna and Salzburg (300-350 km) by increased train services. Secondly, by introducing a frequent flyer tax: people wanting to fly would be given an initial tax-free return flight, with the tax kicking in at a low rate and rising with each increment flight. The money collected would be used towards environmental initiatives to help offset the impact of the various flights.
Out of the Box Thinking & Food for Thought
07/05/2021
Is Quantum Computing advancing in Real Life Applications? BMW is planning to use a Honeywell quantum computer to find a more efficient way to purchase the myriad components that go into its vehicles. The company is using this new computer to optimize the choice of supply from a number of options, including which components to purchase from a particular supplier and the best time to ensure the lowest cost while also maintaining production schedules. Other applications could be improvement of battery chemistry in electrical vehicles, figuring out the best places to install charging stations. The aim is, in 18-24 months, to use the quantum computers to tackle optimization problems no classical computers can handle. Another use case is given by Quantum Delta NL, a Dutch public-private foundation that received €615million from the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy to support research and development in this area, to transfer quantum technology to businesses and society, to educate a new generation of quantum scientists.
Will Robots and Holograms Perform Work Instead of Human-Beings? Companies like Domino’s Pizza are testing, in cooperation with robotics firm, such concepts as autonomous pizza delivery whereby customers can select delivery by small self-driving cars. Qualcomm CEO believes that avatars and digital twins could help humanize the remote work experience within a decade, with employees finding themselves being represented by avatars or working alongside one in the workplace.
How far have helicopters gone in their capabilities? Far enough to be able to perform the first controlled flight on another planet. This was done by NASA’s 1.8kg helicopter on Mars, under very different conditions than on Earth and with a very low atmospheric pressure (1% of that of Earth) that creates a challenge to make a vehicle that is light enough to lift.
For 3D printing, how far have its capabilities advanced? A 3D printed home was recently finished in Eindhoven (the Netherlands) as the first such home in Europe. The new detached, a single story two-bedroom house, is built from 24 concrete elements which are printed layer by layer at the printing plant. The elements are transported to the location by truck, placed on a foundation and provided with a roof and window frames before finishing touches. The house has thick insulation and is connected to the city central heating, making it highly comfortable and energy efficient. This new technology opens the possibility to build affordable homes with control over the shape of the house.
Out of the Box Thinking & Food for Thought23/04/2021
Is travelling by train coming back? The Netherlands and Germany are working to promote just that outcome, with a plan to reduce the travel time between Amsterdam-Berlin by almost 1hour (from 6h22min to 5h27min) by 2030. To further promote train travel, the plan intends for a train to depart Berlin for Amsterdam every hour.
Could we travel 100km in 15min? This is what Europeans wants to achieve by installing a hyperloop test train track in Groningen (The Netherlands). The test track, developed by Delft company, is called the Hardt Hyperloop and will serve as the European test-center for hyperloop travel. This new technology would allow travelling between Amsterdam to Frankfurt (450km) to take only 50 minutes. In the future, Hardt Hyperloop hopes to construct a European hyperloop network that would connect cities across the continent.
How accurate are sniffer dogs in detecting Covid-19? Sniffer dogs in Germany can detect Covid-19 with 94% accuracy after being trained by a veterinary clinic to ‘identify’ the “corona scent” coming from cells within virus-infected people. The dogs can identify people with infections or without infections, as well as individuals who are asymptomatic and symptomatic. So far, these brilliant sniffer dogs have been utilized at airports in Finland and Chile, to help detect the virus amongst air travelers.
Out of the Box Thinking & Food for Thought09/04/2021
Will there be a digital Euro? We will find out this Spring, as the European Central Bank is planning to decide whether to move ahead with the preparatory work to launch a digital Euro. This is a complex project intended to facilitate easier payments while still sharing the foundations of the existing financial system. Following the report from the Central Bank will be a public consultation taking place later this year. If feedback is positive, a pilot will be launched to test the viability of the digital Euro and provide further practical knowledge about a digital Euro.
How much is technology becoming part of our business and professional life? More and more companies are implementing various technologies and according to a recent study, over the next five years this trend will continue. Manufacturing companies intend to further increase technology adoption in the following areas: Sensors & Automatic Identification (80% of respondents); Internet of Things (78%); Robotics & Automation (75%); Wearable & Mobile Technology (70%); Artificial Intelligence (60%), Blockchain (58%); Autonomous Vehicles & Drones (55%); and 3D Printing (50%).
Another report looking at technology adoption found 80% of respondents intend to implement: Cloud Computing; Big-data Analytics; Internet of Things; Cyber Security; Artificial Intelligence; Text/Voice processing; and e-Commerce. Other technological focus areas are People, Telehealth for remote workers, and Robotics for repetitive white-collar jobs (such as basic accounting, purchase order processing, expense approval, reading X-rays).
There appears to be few constraints to the impact technology will have on peoples’ lives.
Will we soon have the ability to check-in at a space hotel? It would appear so, as an American tech company, Gateway Foundation, plans to deliver a ‘space experience’ before the end of this decade. The ‘Voyager’ station is currently in development, with the aim to provide rooms for 400 people. Its circular spinning frame is intended to allow the structure to emulate an artificial gravity level similar to Mars (40% of Earth’s own gravity). The station plans to offer ‘cruise ship-like’ opportunities to eat, relax and work, including a health spa, cinemas, and bars. The frame of the station will accommodate twenty 65×40 foot space pods, which act as rented ‘villas’ for interested individual and companies (like NASA), to work and live.
Out of the Box Thinking & Food for Thought26/03/2021
How much is the carbon footprint of beer? According to author Mike Berners (of the book “How bad are bananas?”), the CO2 footprint of a pint of beer ranges from 300gCO2e to 900g CO2e, with electricity accounting for 25% of the footprint.
Could we fully trace recyclable materials? RecycleGO is promoting the use of Hyperledger Fabric blockchain technology to build a platform capable for the tracking of recyclable material throughout its lifecycle. The project starts with the history of respective material, from its creation to its collection, then through its conversion back to raw material and shipping to a manufacturer for recycled use in a new product.
Is there an alternative to electric vehicles? Porsche seems to believe so, with its creation of synthetic fuel, named eFuel, seen as clean for electric vehicles, with no by-products, fewer particulates, and less NOx produced than traditional fossil fuels. Trials of eFuel are scheduled to start in 2022 and could be a ‘game-changer’ if successful.
How serious is the car industry about climate change? The news from the industry confirms the efforts are rather serious (see the Porsche announcement above) as Volvo announced in early March a plan to stop selling fossil fuel cars by 2030 and moving to selling all new electric vehicles and only on-line.
How can cities grow without negative climate impact? In a return to the past, wood is being considered for tall buildings as architects are becoming more interested in modern timber-construction techniques. Such techniques were already employed in Norway to build the 85-meter tall Mjostarnet building, and with the under construction 228-meter riverside edifice proposed for Chicago, USA.
Can people become energy generators instead of only energy consumers? By developing wearable devices that use people’s body heat as batteries, scientists believe it possible. These thermoelectric generators to harness the difference in temperature between people’s skin and the surrounding air, converting heat energy into electricity. The device, from the University of Colorado Boulder, is made of a stretchy material that fits close to the skin and worn as a ring or a bracelet. The generated energy (around 1volt) is below regular battery power, but enough to power a watch or fitness tracker.
What’s the latest technique of absorbing CO2 emissions from the atmosphere? Two companies (New York based Aether and UK based Skydiamond) developed a technique to transform CO2 emissions into diamonds. Each diamond carat removes 20 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere and offsets 1.25 years of an average person’s lifetime CO2 footprint.
Out of the Box Thinking & Food for Thought
12/03/2021
Is e-commerce here to stay? It appears to be the case, as indicated by several strategic moves: Uber buying Drizly to expand its alcohol home delivery business; Glovo (a Spanish start-up) striking a $100M deal with Swiss property investment firm Stoneweg to open urban distribution centres that make instant deliveries possible (small quantities of goods to be delivered to consumers within the hour); and a pan African e-commerce platform that connects sellers with consumers, called Jumia Technologies, increased its share price from as low as $2.15 in early 2020 to $59 beginning of 2021.
What are the world’s greatest threats in 2021? According to the World Economic Forum risk report, based on responses from 650 members of the Forum’s diverse leadership communities, given via the WEF Global Risks Perception Survey, environmental threats are among the greatest threats by likelihood and by impact.
How old is beer? It seems that somewhere around 4600-5000 years according to American and Egyptian archaeologists that unearthed what could be the oldest known beer factory, at Abydos, an ancient burial ground 450km south of Cairo. The factory dates back to the period of King Narmer, that ruled at the beginning of the First Dynastic Period (3150 B.C – 2613 B.C.). Archaeologists found eight huge units of 20 meters long and 2.5 meters wide. Each unit includes 40 pottery basins in two rows, that seems to have been used to heat up a mixture of grain and water to produce beer. The factory was built to offer beer for royal rituals with beers.
Out of the Box Thinking & Food for Thought
26/02/2021
Can straws be biodegradable? This is what Dunkin’ Donuts believe with the straw solution made out of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) a biodegradable polyester created by using bacterial fermentation without requiring an industrial facility and won’t last in the ocean.
Can the energy sector become net zero carbon by 2050? This is what Fatih Biol, the Executive Director of International Energy Agency (IEA), believes. The agency will be publishing a roadmap in May to help the global industry reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
Will airlines achieve zero CO2 emissions? Both Airbus and Boeing believes that is possible. Airbus is designing a turboprop hydrogen jet by 2035, meant to carry ~100 passengers for a distance of 1,000 nautical miles (roughly from Rome to Dublin). While Boeing is focusing on producing commercial aircrafts that will be certified to fly with 100% sustainable fuels by 2030. In either way, the high CO2 emissions currently associated with air travel could be transforming dramatically.
How is Europe doing in the global race for hydrogen power? It appears very well, as Europe is leading in the number of hydrogen-related projects and investments. The European Union has made hydrogen a key plank in its aim to eliminate its GHG emissions by 2050, with plans to install 40GW of electroysers (equipment to produce emission-free hydrogen from water and renewable power). Timeline is over the next 10 years.
Do consumers care about the environment when making purchases? Yes, according to a study from global management and consulting firm, AT Kearney. In 2019, 71% of consumers considered the environment at least occasionally when making a purchase. This percentage increased to 83% in 2020, even under the pandemic conditions.
How to create more space for solar panels? By building a solar farm in the Swiss mountains. The power plant is located on Lac des Toules in Valais, at an altitude of 1,800m. The project won the Swiss, Watt d’Or prize, as the best in renewable energy innovation in 2020.
Coca Cola is testing a paper bottle prototype26/02/2021
Coca Cola is testing this summer in Hungary, a paper bottle prototype as part of a longer-term bid to eliminate plastic from packaging. The plan is to distribute 2,000 paper bottles for the company’s fruit drink Adez on-line and is in cooperation with Paper Bottle Company (Paboco), a Danish firm.
Out of the Box Thinking & Food for Thought29/01/2021
How does the Covid-19 crisis push us invent and adapt? There appears to be two novel ideas which can be used as examples of new approaches, resulting directly from the pandemic. One comes from the home appliances industry, where producers (Whirlpool, LG Electronics, Electrolux) are incorporating hygienic upgrades into their products – sanitizing heaters in washing machines, and expanded use of germ-killing ultraviolet lights in refrigerators. Another idea is the utilization of sniffer dogs to detect the coronavirus, piloted by Helsinki and Dubai airports, through which dogs are trained to sniff out the virus in 10 seconds with almost 100% accuracy. What a job! Poor dogs!
Did retail progress 10 years in 10 months? This is what the CEO of the American Apparel and Footwear Association believes has happened since the beginning of the pandemic. In this view, all areas of retail business are contributing, including retail, supply chain, sourcing, and technology. The Association’s members, including Calvin Klein, Levi Strauss, Ralph Lauren, Macy’s, adopted an ‘omnichannel’ shopping model, under which customers buy on-line and pick-up in the store, which is now seen as a rule instead of the exception (opposite from pre-pandemic).
Is higher inflation coming in 2021? This is what economics professors and specialist are claiming as a result of the expansion of the broad-based money supply in certain countries, especially in the USA. Inflation results when significant levels of fiscal stimulus are injected by governments around the world to support economic stability during a crisis like the current pandemic. The same conclusion can be drawn also after studying historical data following major shocks or events (e.g., the 1917 Influenza pandemic or the Global Financial Crisis would be examples).
How severe will the Covid-19 pandemic be on the economic environment? The World Bank believes that due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the world economy has lost a decade. Particularly impacted has been global trade and investment, as well as contributions to educational productivity. The World Bank has lowered its’ estimate for the potential of the worldwide growth for the period 2020-2029, to 1.9% down from 2.5% achieved during the last decade.