The Danish brewing giant, Carlsberg Breweries A/S, announced on October 14 that it had increased its shareholding in Carlsberg Okocim S.A. in Poland to 79 % through the acquisition of a further 4 % of the share capital. The shares have been acquired from the German brewery Bitburger at a price of DKK 41 million, the company said. The acquisition is part of Carlsberg Breweries' strategy to increase its shareholding in important breweries.

Poland is the 10th largest beer market in the world. In 2002, the total consumption was 27 million hl beer which is equivalent to a yearly per capita consumption of 69 litres. Over the past five years, the annual consumption has increased by about 7 %. Carlsberg Okocim has a market share of 14 % and Carlsberg is the strongest growing premium brand.

15 October, 2003