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.