E-Malt.com News article: Namibia: Namibia’s first craft beer to be available by mid-August

Camelthorn Brewing Company, Namibia's first microbrewery, has only one aim: to offer people an alternative in the form of beer that is low on calories, All Africa posted on July, 17.

"We do not want people to think that this is just another beer. We want people to say 'I just love this difference', when they drink our beer. We want to confuse people's taste buds," said Jörg Finkeldey, CEO of the Brewery.

Camelthorn will offer "seasonal beers", which means that darker beers such as Weissbier will be offered in winter while lighter beers will be offered in summer.

"With microbrewery, you have the flexibility to change your recipes. It is an interactive process; we can bring people to the brewery and educate them on the brewing process. At the same time you see how people perceive the product," Finkeldey said.

Camelthorn offers five different beers including Helles, American Ale and Weissbeir. Ingredients for these products include barley, wheat, roasted malt as well as hops and water.

Camelthorn will offer super premium beer, which is of top quality, according to Finkeldey.

The brewery is targeting young people between the age of 20 and 35 year. It also aims to attract women, who have long been "ignored" by the beer market, according to Finkeldey.

The products are expected to be on the shelf by mid-August.

The Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) made the largest investment in the brewery, to the amount of N$10.2 million.

"Camelthorn Brewing Company would not be what it is today without the support of family, long-standing friends, investors and the Development Bank of Namibia," Finkeldey said.

The company has six silent partners and an investment company, which has a 25% shareholding.

Finkeldey said, although he cannot give an exact profit margin at this point in time, he expects a turnover of N$6 million in the first year of production.

The company currently employs six people, a figure that is expected to increase once the company starts making a profit.

Camelthorn's products will initially only be available in Windhoek, but will be sold across Namibia over a short period of time, Finkeldey said.

A 10-litre keg of beer will cost N$250.00, while a six-pack will cost N$45.00 depending on wholesale prices.


17 July, 2009