Dutch brewer Heineken NV said it had extended its commercial partnership in Brazil with Mexico's Femsa, the largest bottler and brewer in Latin America, for 10 years until 2017, Reuters reported June 26.

"The extension of this agreement aims at capitalizing on the potential of the premium segment of the Brazilian beer market, one of the largest in the world, as well as by Femsa's powerful distribution capabilities," said Heineken in a statement.

Heineken is the world's fourth largest brewer in terms of sales.

Financial details were not disclosed.

Consumption of beer in Bulgaria is expected to increase significantly during the summer, in comparison to the levels for the winter months, representative of the Union of Brewers in Bulgaria (UBB) Vladimir Ivanov said, according to Sofia Echo article published on June 25th.

During January and February, people consume nearly four times less beer than during June, July and August, Ivanov told Focus news agency. The trend has been re-occurring each year, Ivanov said.

Bulgaria’s brewing industry was developing and sometimes demand exceeded supply, he said.

Previously UBB reported that since the beginning of the year, beer sales have increased 18.4 per cent in comparison to the figures for the previous year.

Foster's Group Limited (Foster's) will cease beer production at its North Fremantle brewery by the end of September 2007, with production shifting to other Foster's sites, the company announced in a press release, June 27.

'Head office', marketing and support, and home for Foster's in WA, will remain at the North Fremantle site.

This decision is a result of an Australian production review to improve cost and capital efficiency, operational flexibility and health, safety and environmental performance.

Employees affected by this decision will be supported through the process with re-deployment and career transition assistance provided.

"While this has been a difficult decision to make, a combination of improved efficiency and flexibility has led us to shift production to other sites", said David Grant, Director Global Beer Production.

The North Fremantle brewery is housed in a 1930s art deco building overlooking Fremantle Beach, formerly home to the Ford Motor Company in WA. The site was transformed into the home of Matilda Bay brewery in 1989.

"The beers and the philosophy behind Matilda Bay will not change," said Mr Grant.

"Matilda Bay Chief Brewer, Brad Rogers will remain at the helm of Matilda Bay and continue the proud tradition of craft beer innovation and creativity."

Over 80% of the company's sales abroad were provided by 'Baltika' brand, which was named the world's most prospective brand as based on the estimate of the survey company Millward Brown Optimor (MBO).

This brand was included in the group of top three leaders of the rating 'Russia's most valuable brands' compiled by the international consulting company 'Interbrand Zintzmeyer & LuxAG' and 'BusinessWeek Russia'. The company plans to make 'Baltika' Europe's first brand by sales volume.