Novedades Página:    1  2  3  4  5  6   >>  Fuentes: --- todos --- Company news drinktec 2009 E-Malt.com Búsqueda Novedades:     07.09.2010   Australia: Foster’s CFO resigns amid beer and wine businesses demerger     ( E-Malt.com ) Australia's Foster’s Group has been hit by the resignation of its finance director in the midst of the demerger of its wine and beer businesses. Angus McKay will leave towards the end of this year to join Asciano, the Australian ports and rail operator, as chief financial officer, Foster’s announced on September, 2. His resignation comes as suitors including London-listed SABMiller and Japan's Asahi Breweries are among those eyeing a potential bid for Foster's brewing division. Foster's plans to demerge into two companies in the first half of 2011, a process likely to be disrupted by Mr McKay's decision. "His experience and business acumen will be missed at a time when the group is going through a complex demerger," said Paul van Meurs, an analyst at Deutsche Bank. Mr McKay became Foster's chief financial officer in January 2008 after joining the group four years earlier. The company's share price was down 1 cent at A$6.10. It has risen 18.4pc since plans for the demerger were revealed. Foster's said a search for a successor to Mr McKay had already begun.   07.09.2010   Austria: Ottakringer Brauerei nearly doubles turnover in Jan-June this year    ( E-Malt.com ) Austrian brewer Ottakringer Brauerei AG has nearly doubled its turnover in the first six months of 2010, FlexNews reported on September, 1. The Vienna-based company said that its turnover grew from 40.3 million euro in H1 2009 to 80.4 million euros in H1 2010. The company said that the main reason for such growth was the integration of mineral water company Vöslauer Mineralwasser AG, which was acquired last year. In addition, Ottakringer said demand for beer improved this year after a decline in 2009, which followed strong demand in 2008 when Austria co-hosted the European football tournament, Euro 2008.   07.09.2010   Belarus: Heineken blames losses on high taxes     ( E-Malt.com ) Loss-making activity of Belarusian enterprises of Heineken is caused by the increase in the size of tax payments, Heineken General Manager in Belarus, Alexei Chernyaev, was quoted as saying by Telegraf on September, 2. Mr. Chernyaev said he expected the unit’s loss in 2010 “will be comparable with the size of additional tax burden." Heineken owns two breweries - Syabar and Rechitsapivo - in Belarus. In the first six months of this year, Syabar's losses totaled Br11.02 billion, and those of Rechitsapivo - Br1.16 billion. "Excise tax's raising from January 1, 2010 led to an increase of this kind of payment by more than Br4.5 billion for H1. Property tax, increased in May, raised this kind of payment by more than Br52 million,” Alexei Chernyaev noted. "The increase of gas prices and electricity tariffs led to the growth of the costs of almost Br707 million and this growth continues," Mr. Chernyaev added. “It is extremely important for the state to create favorable and foreseeable conditions for the development of the domestic brewing industry,” the GM said. High barley prices controlled by the government do not contribute to the competitiveness of Belarusian brewers in domestic and foreign markets, he noted. “So, it is highly important to take into account international prices and view as reference points Russia, Ukraine and EU member countries, our major rivals in the domestic market, in setting prices,” Mr. Chernyaev said. At the same time, he noted positive pricing trends in Belarus this year. “Barley purchase prices have been cut a bit this year, which is already good,” he said. “But the 2010 crops will be used in production only next year.” While commenting on the company’s short-term plans, the general manager said that the focus would be placed on the production of import-substituting brands. “We want to offer Belarusian consumers European beer brands,” he said.   07.09.2010   Kenya: East African Breweries welcome signing of new law set to revolutionize Kenyan beer market     ( E-Malt.com ) East African Breweries Limited has welcomed the signing of the Alcohol Drinks Control Act into law, saying it will ensure consumers get quality alcoholic beverages, Capital News reported on September, 3. According to Corporate Affairs Director Ken Kariuki, the high fines imposed on counterfeiters will ensure that any alcohol brewed is superior. Mr Kariuki said other than shielding consumers from low quality products, it will ensure manufacturers get value for their money since it will eliminate the counterfeits and low quality dangerous drinks. "The act is very explicit that anyone contravening this will be liable for a fine of Sh5 million which is a very huge amount of money. This is going to cause determent in this area," he said. During an interview, Mr Kariuki lauded the Act saying it encourages responsible drinking. "I want to urge anyone who is aware of anyone selling alcohol to an underage to report this to the authorities," he said. On the new advertising regulations, he said the company's adverts comply with the new regulations. He said the company has phased out adverts that promote beer as a drink that enhances social success as required by the new law. The company also a while ago launched the "responsible drinking" initiative that encourages drinkers to designate a sober person to be the driver. The Act is set to revolutionize the beer brewing market by licensing traditional/illicit brews in the country but regulate the sale and manufacture. The State shall license brewers and ensure that the traditional beers are manufactured under very hygienic conditions and that their ingredients are within set standards. These beers will no longer be sold in jars and cups as has been the tradition. Brewers will be required to pack them in bottles of not less than 200 milliliters. The new law will also regulate the general sale and advertising of beers in the country. It outlaws adverts that promote beer to enhance concentration and social and sexual success. A powerful District Alcoholic Drinks Regulation Committee shall be put in place to regulate the sale of beer in the specific districts. This committee shall be in charge of licensing bars and brewers. The District Committee shall consist of the District Commissioner who shall be the chairperson, the District Medical Officer of Health, Officer Commanding Police Division, one person nominated by every local authority in the district, three residents of the district appointed by the Minister, and one person designated by the relevant agency to be a secretary. Bars will be required to acquire annual licenses and ensure their premises are at least three hundred meters from a primary or secondary school. Secondly, the sale of an alcoholic drink in a supermarket or such other related retail chain store shall not be allowed unless the applicant has taken measures to ensure that the area in which the sale is to take place is not accessible to persons under the age of 18 years. Bar operators will be responsible of controlling disturbances in their premises. "When they see drunken behavior they will have to put an end to it by for example having the individuals responsible exit," said Mr Kariuki. The law gives the Provincial Administration and Internal Security Minister powers to set the drinking hours in the country.   02.09.2010   A new butterfly valve for almost any application     ( Company news ) The GEMÜ range of butterfly valves is now one version richer. The new GEMÜ D480 series is the most versatile butterfly valve we have ever had in our range. The new GEMÜ D480 wafer pattern butterfly valve is available in nominal sizes DN 25 – 1400. A wafer type version, an end-flange version with threaded holes and a double flange version are available body configurations. The installation length is in accordance with EN 558-1 basic series 20. Connection standards to DIN (PN10/16), ANSI 150, JIS and BS can be supplied. Standard pressure ratings are 10 bar and 16 bar. A soft-sealing concentric version of the D480 butterfly valve is suitable for pressures up to 25bar. The butterfly valve complies with the safety requirements of Annex I of the European Pressure Equipment Directive 97/23/EC for fluids of group 1 and 2. A wide range of materials and coatings is available for the body and butterfly disc extending from SG iron to superduplex steels. Coating materials are Resicoat®, Rilsan® or Halar®. The temperature limits for the working medium range from -40°C up to max. 200°C, depending on the material selected. - Seats and approvals The seats are available in 17 different versions from EPDM to Viton® (FPM). These include an FDA compliant EPDM and a version for drinking water. The drinking water version fulfils the requirements of ACS, KTW, WRAS and W270. Exchangeable seats or seats vulcanised to the body can be supplied. Vulcanised seats are particularly suitable for applications involving high pressures, mechanical stress and vacuum. - Operators Type series D480 features a top flange in accordance with EN ISO 5211 for mounting various operators. Hand lever, gearbox, pneumatic actuators and motorized actuators in an open/close version or control version are available. The pneumatic GEMÜ D481 butterfly valve is manufactured with the tried-and-tested GEMÜ ADA/ASR or DR/SC actuators in single or double acting versions. The pneumatic actuators can be equipped with an extensive range of accessories such as pilot valves, electrical position indicators, combi switchboxes and positioners. Accordingly, the new valves can be integrated into any automated system without difficulty. - Areas of application for GEMÜ D480 The great variety of body/disc materials and coatings as well as the wide range of seats provides for an extensive range of possible applications. From standard discs in SG iron to super duplex discs or Halar coated discs for corrosive media, no wishes are left unfulfilled. The butterfly valve is used in the following industries for example:  Chemical industry  Mining and metal extraction  Steel works  Water and wastewater treatment  Sea water desalination  Pharmaceutical and semiconductor industry  General industrial processes (GEMÜ Gebr. Müller Apparatebau GmbH & Co. KG)   30.08.2010   China: Chongqing Brewery’s revenue, beer production drop in H1     ( E-Malt.com ) China’s Chongqing Brewery’s first half revenue dropped 2.21 percent year-on-year to 1.06 billion yuan, Capital Vue reported on August, 26. Net profit attributable to shareholders increased 6.13 percent year-on-year to 92.48 million yuan, the company said in a filing. Earnings per share hit 0.191 yuan. Chongqing Brewery earned 11.76 million yuan from the disposal of non-current assets and received a government subsidy of 6.59 million yuan in the first half. Beer production in the first half dropped 6.76 percent year-on-year to 447.1 litres, the company reported.   30.08.2010   Colombia: SABMiller’s subsidiary launches new beer     ( E-Malt.com ) Bavaria, the Colombian unit of SABMiller plc, announced on August, 24 the launch of new Poker Ligera beer, the first extension of the brand Poker in its 81 years of history. Poker Ligera will be available in three presentations: 330ml amber returnable bottle, 330ml non-returnable amber bottle and 330ml can, the company said. Poker, in its traditional version, was re-launched nearly two years ago and its presence exceeds seventy percent of the national territory, being one of the leading brands in Bavaria’s portfolio.   30.08.2010   Poland: Study shows beer preferred to other beverages by 52% of adults    ( E-Malt.com ) In Poland, wine has more success with the consumers, than vodka, but the market is still dominated by beer, RelaxNews cited the results of a recent research on August, 23. According to a study by CBOS (Centrum Badania Opinii Spolecznej), about 52% by Polish adults (versus 44% in 2007) prefer beer to other beverages. Vodka is losing its popularity among the Poles, letting wine be ranked second most popular drink in Poland this year, it is reported. The study questioned 899 adults between 8 and 14 July this year.   30.08.2010   Vietnam: Asia Pacific Breweries’ subsidiary launches new bottling line ‘to cater the strong ....    ( E-Malt.com ) .... and rising beer demand’ To meet robust and surging beer demand, Vietnam Brewery Limited (VBL) in which Asia Pacific Breweries Ltd (APB) holds a 60% interest, on August, 27 commissioned a new bottling line at its brewery in Danang, Vietnam, the parent company announced. “The commissioning of the new bottling line marks a significant milestone for VBL in Danang where the brewery produces the popular Larue beer, which has a heritage of over 100 years. While Larue beer enjoys a strong following in the Danang and Quang Nam Provinces, it is also available in over 40 other provinces in Vietnam where the brand experienced high double-digit growth in the past two years. With the new bottling line in place, our Danang brewery is now better equipped to cater to the strong and rising beer demand. More importantly, this move enables us to sharpen our competitive edge and efficiency to prime ourselves for more sustainable growth ahead for the APB Group in Vietnam,” Mr Chris Kidd, Regional Director, IndoChina, APB, said at the opening of the new line. The investment is part of a multiphase programme which will double the brewery’s capacity in the next few years. This phase also includes investments in a warehouse, fermentation tanks and a new brewhouse. Expansion work will be completed in 2011. The investment underlines the success of APB in and its commitment to the Vietnamese beer market. The brewery in Danang is one of five breweries that APB owns in Vietnam. Through its joint venture with SATRA in VBL, it also oversees brewery operations in Ho Chi Minh City, Tien Giang and Quang Nam where brands such as Tiger, Heineken, Larue and BGI are brewed. Meanwhile, APB taps on the opportunities up in northern Vietnam through its wholly-owned Asia Pacific Brewery (Hanoi) Limited. Collectively, they maximise market coverage and deliver synergies for APB in Vietnam. Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia make up the Indochina region of the APB Group. The region has been a consistent star performer for the Group, turning in robust revenue and Group Profit Before Interest, Taxation and Exceptional Items (PBIT) year-on-year. In the first six months ended 31 March 2010, the region generated a revenue of S$503 million and reported a PBIT of S$130 million.   26.08.2010   Angola: SABMiller’s local beer production capacity to increase by 60%     ( E-Malt.com ) The SABMiller group plans to increase production capacity at its N'gola factory in Angola from 820,000 to 1.3 million hectolitres as of February 2011, the sales manager for the southern region, Paulo Rodrigues, was quoted saying by MacauHub on August 20. According to Rodrigues, SABMiller put a disposable N’gola beer bottle on the market in order to reach channels and sectors that had so far been difficult to access, such as supermarkets, where people go without taking containers to buy the product. SABMiller manages Coca-Cola Bottling Angola (north, central and southern regions) and N'gola plants. The group expects to open two more factories at the end of the year, one for soft drinks and another for beer in the Funda area of Cacuaco municipality, in Luanda, which are currently operating on an experimental basis.   26.08.2010   Australia: Foster's and Asahi extend Australian partnership     ( E-Malt.com ) Carlton & United Breweries and Asahi Breweries Ltd, brewer of Japan’s leading exported beer, Asahi Super Dry, today extended a long term exclusive license to sell and market Asahi Super Dry in Australia, Foster's Group announced on August 16. “We have a longstanding relationship with Carlton & United Breweries and we’re delighted it is set to continue,” Mr Naoki Izumiya, Asahi Breweries Ltd President & Chief Operating Officer, said. “We are extremely pleased with Asahi Super Dry’s performance in Australia and are confident Carlton & United Breweries will continue to position the brand for future growth.” Since 1992, Asahi has been one of Australia’s favourite premium imported beers. Under this new agreement, the brand is positioned for rapid growth in coming years. “Asahi continues to be a leading brand in the Carlton & United Breweries portfolio and we’re delighted to cement our partnership with Asahi,” said John Pollaers, Carlton & United Breweries Managing Director. “We value this extended long term agreement and are proud to have built the Asahi brand into Australia’s favourite Japanese beer.”   26.08.2010   China: Tsingtao unveils strong H1 results, to continue investment in expansion    ( E-Malt.com ) Tsingtao Brewery, China's second-largest brewer by volume, has reported a strong jump in first-half profit, and said it will continue to invest on expanding its business, KamCity informed on August 16. The group said that net profit for the first six months of the year jumped up 29.7% to 830m Yuan (US$122m), even as sales rose by 9.3% to 9.8bn Yuan (US$1.44bn). The company said that demand was boosted by increased sales of its premium beers. Tsingtao added that it will continue to “actively look for” merger and acquisition opportunities in the second half to expand its share of the beer market. It also said it will invest 268m Yuan to expand its production capacity, and will also stick to its current marketing strategy. Meanwhile, a report in the local media said that Tsingtao is in talks to buy 45% of Xihu beer, a joint venture between Asahi Breweries and Itochu Corp. The papers said the deal could be worth up to 2bn Yuan.   26.08.2010   Germany: Beer tax income up due to World Cup     ( E-Malt.com ) Germany's Finance Ministry says the World Cup added a bit of froth to the country's coffers last month as tax income from sales of beer rose sharply, Forbes informed on August 20. The ministry said in its monthly report of August 20 that income from tax on beer - which goes to the country's 16 state governments - was euro73 million ($94 million), up 9.1% in July compared to the same period last year. However, figures for the year's first seven months suggested that Germans' long-term trend toward buying less beer is unchanged. The beer tax take from January to July was euro414 million, 1.5% lower than last year. A much-praised Germany team reached the semi-final at the World Cup, and then won the third-place playoff against Uruguay on July 10.   26.08.2010   World: Heineken believes Femsa Cerveza acquisition will increase earnings in two years     ( E-Malt.com ) Heineken NV, the world’s third- biggest brewer by volume, confirmed the acquisition of Femsa Cerveza is expected to boost earnings per share after two years, and said the unit posted 2009 earnings in line with a shareholders’ circular published March 23, Bloomberg reported on August 19. Femsa’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization before some items were 442 million euros ($567 million), Amsterdam-based Heineken said on August 19 in a statement. Revenue was 2.47 billion euros. Beer volume was 40.5 million hectoliters. The figures do not purport to represent what Heineken’s actual result of operations would have been if the purchase had occurred on Jan. 1, Heineken said. Heineken acquired the beer division of Fomento Economico Mexicano SAB on April 30 in an all-stock deal valued at 5.3 billion euros to access faster sales growth in Latin America. The purchase gave Heineken one of only two beer makers in Mexico, the world’s fourth-most profitable market, and reduces the company’s reliance on slower-growing European markets. Heineken, which distributes beers including Dos Equis in the U.S., has said it expects savings of 150 million euros a year by 2013 and will use the acquisition to sell Femsa brands in Europe and Heineken in Latin America.   18.08.2010   Asia overtakes Europe as biggest producer of beer and India is to be Asia's second ....     ( E-Malt.com ) .... largest beer producer Asian beer manufacturers produced 124 billion pints of beer in 2009, marking an increase of 5.5 per cent compared to the previous year. At the same time, European beer companies experienced a production drop of 5.1 per cent to 115 billion pints during the same period, according to a study by the research department of Kirin Holdings Co, the Japanese beer giant. Defying cultural stereotypes of beer-swilling Europeans, it is the first time that Asia has assumed the top spot in the world's beer producing since annual records began in 1974 by the Kirin Institute of Food and Lifestyle. Vietnam fuelled the surge in Asian beer production, with an increase of more than 24 per cent in beer manufacturing over 2009, according to the report. India followed closely behind with an increase of 12.3 per cent, while China's beer manufacturers also collectively increased seven per cent over the past year. With the average Asian still consuming less beer than his or her European counterpart, there was still further scope for Asia to continue growing, according to Kyodo News. "There is more room for further growth in Asia down the track because Asians' per capita consumption is relatively small," the report read. Japan, however, did not contribute to the surge in beer production in Asia, instead experiencing a two per cent drop in production levels during the same period. The figures reflect a long-running trend: the nation's home beer market has shrunk by more than 15 per cent in volume terms over the past decade. The continued decline in Japan's beer industry has prompted breweries to increasingly invest outside the country. Asahi Breweries, ranked the world's 12th-largest beer maker, recently announced plans to keep 785 billion yen (£5.8billion) on tap for potential investments outside Japan over the next five years. Vietnam, however, is enjoying a steady increase in the popularity of its beers, with its popular labels Hanoi Beer and Saigon Beer recently chosen to be the official beverages at this year's Berlin International Beer Festival.   18.08.2010   Japan: Beer shipments up 2.1 % in July thanks to high temperatures across the nation    ( E-Malt.com ) Major Japanese brewers announced on August 11 their domestic shipments of beer and beer-like alcoholic drinks (low-malt "happoshu" beer and low-price "third beer") increased by 2.1 percent in July this year compared to the same month last year up to 47.16 million cases for the second straight monthly rise, due largely to high temperatures across the nation according to the Brewers Association of Japan. Asahi Breweries Ltd., Kirin Brewery Co., Suntory Holdings Ltd. and Sapporo Breweries Ltd. all saw their shipments in July increase from year-before levels. One case of beer holds 20 633-milliliter bottles. The recent hot spell helped overall demand grow, but the only category to post growth was third beer -- the least expensive type -- reflecting thrifty consumer attitudes. Shipments of third beer expanded 16.9%, while beer and happoshu shipments dropped 0.8% and 11%, respectively.   18.08.2010   Molson Coors to sponsor Bolton Wanderers FC    ( E-Malt.com ) BOLTON Wanderers have signed a new five-year sponsorship agreement with brewing giants Molson Coors, which includes involvement in the match day bus service to the Reebok – which will now be branded as ‘Catch the Carling Buzz’. The agreement will see the Carling & Worthington’s brands on offer at the Reebok Stadium. Fittingly, Wanderers legend Frank Worthington, who was at the Reebok to help celebrate the partnership, said: “This is terrific news for the fans. They can now see the Wanderers and have a great pint at the same time.”   18.08.2010   Russia: Barley price hike threatens Russian brewers most    ( E-Malt.com ) Russian brewers are to be hit worse than foreign rivals by the jump in the barley market which has, unusually, taken feed varieties of the grain to parity with milling wheat, AgriMoney cited Fitch analysts on August 10th. Fresh malting barley supply arrangements put in place by many brewers caught out by the last price spike, in 2007-08, will go some way to protecting farmers from a grain whose gains have outpaced even those of wheat during the last six weeks. "Brewers are protected in the medium term by hedging or long-term procurement agreements," Fitch said. Many would also be able to pass on costs to consumers. Giulio Lombardi, a senior director at Fitch, said: "In an extreme scenario, a doubling of barley prices would erode major brewers' gross margins, typically ranging between 45-55% of sales, by up to 3-5% of sales." This was "unlikely" to happen to most beer-makers, given that much of the northern hemisphere crop was already safely harvested and stored. - 'Margin pressure' The "possible exception" was the brewing sector serving Russian drinkers, which has already tested consumers this year with a 25% jump in prices after passing on a duty increase. Furthermore, Russia's barley supplies looked notably scarce, and were viewed by many analysts as likely to run low even before drought fears kicked in. International barley prices were particularly low last year, prompting many farmers in Russia to switch to other crops. Fitch singled out Carlsberg among the major brewers as vulnerable to an earnings hit, thanks to its reliance on Russia for 40% of its profits, compared with a figure of 5% for Heineken. "Given that the scarcity of barley is most severe in Russia, where pricing power for beer is currently impaired by having passed through a sharp excise duty increase, Carlsberg Breweries may suffer some imminent pressure on profit margin," the agency said. - Bagged barley The report follows a rise in barley prices which continued in Europe even after the wheat market ran out of steam on Friday. The surge – led by feed barley, to which malting varieties typically enjoys a marked premium - has been attributed by traders to a jump in demand from the Middle East, where farmers champion the grain as a livestock feed. Indeed, importers "can't really use any other grain because much of it is bagged and then sold to Bedouin livestock keepers for their goats and camels", presenting handling and logistical difficulties to a switch, Glencore's UK grain arm said. With exports from their traditional Black Sea markets being squeezed, and banned altogether from Russia, buyers were having to look at alternative suppliers, of which Europe, the biggest barley grower, is the obvious choice. Indeed, the European Union holds 5.5m tonnes in intervention storage, bought largely during last season's price slump, but which it has said it has no plans to sell as yet.   18.08.2010   Singapore: Asia Pacific Brewers announces strong performance    ( E-Malt.com ) Asia Pacific Breweries Ltd (APB) announced on August 11th another strong performance for the nine-month period ending 30 June 2010. APBE* gained S$80.4 million or 61% to S$212.2 million. PBIT, at S$387.4 million, was S$127.3 million or 49% higher than last year. Revenue for the first nine months stood at S$1.9 billion. This was a 24% increase as compared to the same period last year. Mr Roland Pirmez, Chief Executive Officer, APB said,"For the nine months under review, the APB Group continued to benefit significantly from high-growth IndoChina (comprising Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam) that boosted volume and PBIT by 28% and 35% respectively. Malaysia also turned in an outstanding performance with a 32% increase in PBIT as compared to last year due to a 7% volume growth and lower marketing expenditure. Another factor contributing to PBIT improvement was the newly acquired businesses in Indonesia and New Caledonia that added more than 11% to Group PBIT.” New Zealand more than doubled its PBIT to S$27.3 million, owing to a 4% volume gain, favourable sales mix and the appreciation of the New Zealand dollar. Meanwhile, Thailand witnessed a 32% rise in PBIT due to lower marketing expenditure and overheads as well as a 1% volume improvement. PBIT for Singapore rose 10% while that for Papua New Guinea posted a 3% growth. The former benefited from better export performance while the latter benefited from higher profit margins as a result of price increases. Volume in Mongolia grew 71%. Combined with an exchange gain of S$1.4 million from the currency realignment of the US dollar loans, PBIT amounted to S$4.0 million. The Sri Lanka operations also turned in a volume growth of 37%. The newly acquired businesses of APB, PT Multi Bintang Indonesia, Tbk (MBI) and Grande Brasserie de Nouvelle Caledonie S.A (GBNC) were also key contributors to the Group’s strong performance for the period under review. Together, their consolidated results contributed S$43.1 million to Group PBIT, before deduction of transaction costs. OUTLOOK The Group continues to trade well in the highly competitive markets in which it operates. With the completion of the acquisition of businesses in Indonesia and New Caledonia and disposal of the India businesses, there has been a fundamental improvement in the geographical mix of the company’s operations. The new businesses are performing in line with expectations. Barring any unforeseen developments, we expect the organic growth to continue in the next quarter. Operations Review (YTD) - Singapore Despite a marginal dip in overall volume, PBIT rose 10%. This improvement was attributable mainly to better performance from the export operations as a result of the transfer of the management and distribution of Tiger Beer in the United Kingdom to Heineken UK. - Malaysia PBIT rose 32% on the back of volume growth of 7% and lower marketing expenditure. - Papua New Guinea PBIT grew 3%, owing to better margins from price increases. This was despite a 4% dip in sales volume arising from liquor bans imposed in several regions. - New Zealand PBIT more than doubled to $27.3 million due mainly to a 4% volume gain, favourable sales mix and the appreciation of the New Zealand dollar. - Indochina The region, particularly Vietnam, continued its strong performance with PBIT and volume increments of 35% and 28% respectively. Excluding translation and gestation losses for Lao APB, PBIT grew organically by 45%. - China PBIT losses for our operations in China were pared down 74% to $1.8 million. The improved performance was attributable to favourable sales mix and lower overheads. - Thailand PBIT grew 32%. This was attributable to lower marketing expenditure, lower overheads and a volume improvement of 1%. - Sri Lanka Despite a volume growth of 37%, PBIT, at a loss of S$0.6 million, was comparable to the same period last year due to higher price of raw materials and higher marketing expenditure. - Mongolia Volume improved 71%. PBIT rose to $4.0 million compared to a loss of S$6.7 million last year. This was attributable to an exchange gain of S$1.4 million from the currency realignment of the US dollar loans compared to an exchange loss of S$5.9 million last year. Excluding the impact from such exchange differences, PBIT would be S$2.6 million compared to a loss of S$0.8 million achieved for the same period last year. - Indonesia and New Caledonia The Group’s acquisition of PT Multi Bintang Indonesia, Tbk (MBI) and Grande Brasserie de Nouvelle Caledonie S.A. (GBNC) were completed on 10 February 2010. With the consolidation of their results, MBI and GBNC contributed $43.1 million to the Group’s PBIT, before deduction of transaction costs. - Corporate Office Corporate office expenses were higher than last year. This was mainly attributable to higher marketing and business development expenditure partially offset by higher royalty income. * Including results from discontinued operations   18.08.2010   UK: The price of a pint could rise to as much as £4    ( E-Malt.com ) Pub drinkers have been warned to prepare themselves for higher beer prices next year amid poor barley harvests and higher taxes, The Telegraph informed on August 10. It is the latest high cost of living to hit families that are reeling from the recession. Prices have already more than doubled in the past two decades, with the average cost of a pint of beer growing from £1.08 in 1989 to £2.81 in 2009, the British Beer & Pub Association said. It is feared that the typical price of a pint could rise to as much as £4. Poor barley harvests in Eastern Europe and export ban imposed by Russia threaten to hit brewers while they are forced to cope with VAT and duty increases. The British Beer & Pub Association said there had been a 26% growth in beer duty during the last two years alone. And it warned higher beer prices would be another blow to pubs which suffered from the smoking ban.   17.08.2010   Duvel Moortgat takes over Brouwerij De Koninck    ( Company news ) Duvel Moortgat nv has reached agreement on the acquisition of 100% of the shares of the Brouwerij De Koninck group. With this acquisition, Duvel Moortgat expands its portfolio of specialty beers; it also aims to reinvigorate the De Koninck beer brand. Brouwerij De Koninck is located in the heart of Antwerp and has a unique bond with the city. The De Koninck “Bolleke” is most popular in Antwerp and the surrounding area as well as in the Netherlands, but it also enjoys strong brand recognition throughout Belgium. Brouwerij De Koninck started its activities in 1827 when Jozeph De Koninck bought a coach house on the border between Antwerp and Berchem, currently known as “Afspanning De Hand”. These premises were converted into a brewery in 1833. Since then, the image of a hand has been immortalized in the brewery’s logo. Over the years, the Van den Bogaert and Van Bauwel families succeeded in building De Koninck into a valuable brand with a solid local reputation. Bernard Van den Bogaert states: “This acquisition is a logical step. Because of the small size of our brewery, we have experienced a lack of commercial strength and distribution channels. During the last couple of years, Duvel Moortgat has proven that it possesses the right experience. And the fact that the two breweries have maintained an excellent relationship for generations adds an extra dimension to this acquisition.” Brouwerij De Koninck experienced its greatest success during the nineties, achieving a yearly production level of 130,000 hectoliters. As a result of a shrinking beer market and a strong decline in the pale ale segment, today less than 50% of that volume remains. Duvel Moortgat is also acquiring significant real estate, mainly located in the Antwerp region. This comprises the brewery site, about seven other properties and 63 cafés, including Antwerp icons such as “Den Engel” at the Grote Markt and the “Boer van Tienen” at Mechels Plein. The acquisition also includes beer trader Brouwerij De Valk, based in Wijnegem. De Valk has grown to become a key supplier in the Antwerp region, delivering to hundreds of cafés and restaurants on a daily basis. Regulated information under embargo until 5 August 2010, 17h40 Michel Moortgat (CEO of Duvel Moortgat) states: “We are very pleased to be able to incorporate Brouwerij De Koninck into the Duvel Moortgat Group. The “Bolleke” is not only a strong brand but also a quality specialty beer that fits perfectly into Duvel Moortgat’s range (Duvel, Chouffe, Maredsous, Liefmans, Vedett, Bel Pils). Our international distribution, including our own branches in Belgium, the Netherlands, France, the UK and the USA, provides an ideal operating base to progressively develop De Koninck. It did not take us long to reach agreement: family values and traditions are concepts that both breweries feel strongly about.” More details of the financial transaction will be disclosed along with the publication of the interim accounts. Further information can be obtained from Mr. Michel Moortgat (CEO of Duvel Moortgat) on the following number: +32 3 860 94 00. (Duvel Moortgat N.V.)   11.08.2010   GEMÜ roadshow: It's on the road again!    ( Company news ) The new GEMÜ roadshow is finished and operating for our customers. The new GEMÜ roadshow is ready for action. After many months of planning and assembly, it is once again on the road direct to our customers' premises and facilities. Equipped with an overview of our entire product range and four functional display walls covering the topic of automation, it allows all of our customers' employees to find out about their own specific topic of interest very quickly and efficiently. This includes purchasing staff and engineers from the planning department as well as employees from the production, service or maintenance departments. The information provided ranges from details about the design of valves and the presentation of new products right through to tips and tricks on installing spare parts. We can also prepare information on topics of specific interest upon request. The exhibition room of the roadshow is housed in a containerised truck body. 12 m² of exhibition space provide concentrated expertise in a small area. Equipped with air conditioning, heating, a coffee machine and refrigerator, the roadshow ensures that its visitors enjoy a high level of comfort regardless of the weather and temperature. The large entrance area, which can also be closed with a glass door, lets a lot of light inside and gives the room a much more spacious feeling. A generously sized set of stairs provides for easy access and rounds off the interior nicely to the outside. The wall opposite the entrance is equipped with four 36“ screens which show images, documentation and videos. The screens can be operated individually or as a combined widescreen presentation area. In addition, the exhibition container can easily be set down for extended deployments. A second container is currently being completed and this will allow us to operate at two sites at once in the future. An integrated external power connection also allows the roadshow to be operated independently via the towing vehicle. During the first 12- 24 months, the roadshow will primarily be on the road throughout Germany and Europe. The towing vehicle features a fully equipped cab which leaves no wish unfulfilled for long delivery trips and deployments in remote areas. This is why our driver, Thomas Medelsky, who has been with the company since October 2009, can always arrive at your premises well rested and relaxed. Since joining he has undergone a comprehensive training programme and has taken care of the many different issues which arise with this type of vehicle. One of the courses he has completed is the Train-the-Trainer course on exchanging shutoff diaphragms on diaphragm valves. This means he is officially authorised to instruct people in this area and he is the first point of contact for the service and maintenance staff of our customers. He is always accompanied at our customers' premises by staff from the sales department or specialist departments. (GEMÜ Gebr. Müller Apparatebau GmbH & Co. KG)   10.08.2010   Expansion of Competency in Health Food Area: Symrise Founds Scientific Advisory Board ....    ( Company news ) .... for Health and Nutrition With the foundation of a new scientific advisory body, the international flavoring manufacturer Symrise is expanding its competencies in the area of health-oriented food. The Scientific Advisory Board for Health and Nutrition is composed of internationally renowned scientists, who advise Symrise during the development of new ingredients for supplements and healthy and functional food products. The external specialists provide Symrise researchers with support in implementing new scientific data as quickly as possible in actual products, and they also give the researchers support in developing new technologies. In the Scent & Care division Symrise has already been working successfully for several years with its own Scientific Advisory Board, which advises the Group on the development of new ingredients for cosmetic products. The members of the Scientific Advisory Board for Health and Nutrition are Prof. Dr. Gerhard Rogler, Professor for Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the UniversitätsSpital in Zurich, Prof. Dr. Christian Barth, long-standing Scientific Director of the German Institute of Human Nutrition (DIfE), as well as Prof. Dr. Ulrich Noehle, independent scientific consultant (previously CEO of Nordzucker and the Director of Nutritional Science, Food Legislation and Quality Management at Nestlé Germany). “We are very pleased to have won such world-class experts as members of our new advisory board,” commented Dr. Simone Peschke, Head of the Symrise Competence Center for Health & Nutrition. “Their expertise in the areas of medicine, chemistry and nutrition ideally complement each other and will provide valuable stimuli for our research and development work.” With the founding of the Scientific Advisory Board for Health and Nutrition, Symrise is continuing to expand its health & nutrition strategy as well as its competitive position. As early as November of last year, the Company established the new global business unit Consumer Health. This unit is specialized exclusively on the development of functional ingredients and flavoring solutions for food supplements and health products. It is supported by the Symrise Competence Center for Health & Nutrition, which continually develops new, innovative biofunctional ingredients on the basis of scientifically proven effects and nutritional-physiological characteristics. During the development of biofunctional ingredients, Symrise makes use of synergies in the area of flavoring development, for example with regard to the natural raw materials and technologies platforms used. “In the functional foods and health products segment we are seeing strong growth, which is also having a long-term impact on the innovation pipelines of our customers,” explained Dirk Bennwitz, Senior Vice President of Consumer Health. “Together with our external advisors we aim to identify the nutritional needs of the consumers early on and respond to these with tailor-made products. Our goal is to target highly focused research and product development with the highest possible level of relevance for consumers and customers.” Additional information on the members: - Prof. Dr. Gerhard Rogler Prof. Dr. Gerhard Rogler is a professor of gastroenterology and hepatology at the UniversitätsSpital in Zurich. After completing research activities at the University of California in San Diego, with a focus on cellular and molecular medicine, Prof. Dr. Rogler spent four years as a professor of gastroenterology and hepatology at the University of Regensburg. Concurrently to his medical training and activities as a practicing medical professional he also completed a doctorate in philosophy. He is an expert in the area of intestinal metabolism, pharmacokinetics, intestinal inflammation and gastrointestinal physiology. - Prof. Dr. Christian Barth Prof. Dr. Christian Barth was active as Scientific Director of the German Institute of Human Nutrition (DIfE) for nine years. After completing a degree in medicine in Heidelberg, a postdoctoral qualification in biochemistry and research studies on the subject of lipid metabolism at Rockefeller University in New York, he led a research group with a focus on cholesterol synthesis and lipid metabolism at the University of Munich. Following this, he acted as Director of the Institute for Nutritional Physiology and Biochemistry at the German Federal Institute for Dairy Research (Bundesanstalt für Milchforschung) in Kiel. - Prof. Dr. Ulrich Noehle Prof. Dr. Ulrich Noehle studied food chemistry at the Technische Universität Berlin. He worked for three years as Head of Product Development at Kraft, before being appointed to the Management Board at Nestlé, Hamburg. Later, Prof. Dr. Noehle became a member of the Nestlé Expert Group for International Food Legislation in Switzerland. After eight years as Director of Nutritional Science, Food Legislation and Quality Management at Nestlé Germany, he was subsequently active as the CEO of Nordzucker for four years. In addition to his current position as an independent and scientific consultant Prof. Dr. Noehle is also a professor of quality management at the Technische Universität Braunschweig. (Symrise AG)   30.07.2010   Hood stretch with MSK Stretch hood packaging machines – a vision becomes reality    ( Company news ) It is MSK’s fastest stretch hood system for appliances, it ensures smooth product stacking and features an impressive energy balance: the MSK Tensiontech. At Electrolux Revin/France, these new stretch hood machines now package washing machines with high speed and a unique packaging result. - Packaging demands In order to being able to continue their “Green Spirit” dynamics, Electrolux Revin (France) asked for a stretch hood packaging solution at MSK Covertech, producer of packaging systems. A total of nine MSK Tensiontech stretch hood machines has already been in operation at Electrolux since 2001, however now there was a new challenge: the new stretch hood technology would have to be even faster – the fastest that MSK has ever offered for appliances. The former shrink oven technique was to be replaced by a modern, cost- and energy-saving packaging solution that would be able to handle over 400 products per hour. - Focus on final packaging The development of perfect packaging for transport always calls for consideration of the primary product packaging, as well. The inner package has to resist the pressure which is put on by a stretch hood, so that the cost-saving effect of the stretch film does not go at the expense of the primary packaging. In order to allow for that, MSK started extensive test series for Elextrolux Revin at their technical-scale laboratory, while other tests were run at Elextrolux Revin in order to come up with a specific solution for the packaging of compact and heavy devices. It was a special challenge to design an ideal concept for the total unit of machine-product-film altogether. One of the main conditions was smooth product stacking, where the under-stretch at the product bottom plays an especially major part. The test series were successfully completed to the total satisfaction of the producer of washing machines. Electrolux placed the order for new MSK packaging machines for their plant in Revin in October of 2008. - Innovative high-performance technology Both of the MSK packaging machines delivered to Electrolux Revin in April and June of 2009 belong to the fastest stretch hood systems in the market. Each of the machines fits up to 220 washing machines per hour with an individually mass-produced stretch hood. “With regard to reaching this maximum speed, Electrolux has put a lot of confidence in us that we have not betrayed,” Uwe Jonkmanns, marketing and sales director at MSK, says about the close and trustful cooperation during the stage of development. “It is thanks to fundamental constructive features of the MSK Tensiontech and the result of great cooperation between different film producers that such an outstanding packaging result can be reached at this high performance level”, he explains. The covering frame, for example, is made from highly stable aluminum, which reduces the moveable mass and - in addition to the balanced counter weight – allows for a smaller machine design. The system is fitted with a welding strip for film roll changes, which notably minimizes the loss of time during the exchange. It also offers a maximum of comfort in operation and refitting, as well as excellent accessibility. The MSK Tensiontech has been designed to operate without hydraulics or chains, so it does not need any lubricants on the product and comes as a “clean” system with minimal maintenance and very little abrasion. An important milestone in the development of the packaging solution for Electrolux Revin has been the use of the innovative MSK laminating system, which allows for easy product stacking and smooth transportation. - MSK laminating system For on-plant transport of the washing machines in Revin, up to 18 devices can be conveyed simultaneously. This requires fast and secure stacking of the products. Stretch film at the product bottom that shows an insufficient “snap-back” effect would be counterproductive in this case as it could lead to packaging damage in stacking and transportation. In order to avoid that, MSK together with Electrolux Revin’s engineers applied an innovative laminating system which completely smoothes the film below the product after hooding. Thus, the devices can be conveyed and stacked without any problems or risk. On the plus side, using this technology enables the use of cheaper film. - Energy-efficient packaging with MSK Stretch Hood machines MSK’s stretch hood technology is able to handle even the thinnest film and abandons any usage of hydraulics and gas. By adding new material and constructively developing their machines to use less energy, MSK contributes to a positive energy balance. Depending on product and performance level, energy consumption is just below 0.1 kWh per packaging unit. - Customized project planning Since the new packaging system was to be installed in a very compact space, MSK engineering started their project with an intensive layout phase. As a result, the machine arrangement now offers ideal film access and even allows for easy integration of another optional stretch hooder. Thanks to the close cooperation between the MSK and Electrolux engineers, the replacement of the old machines with the new system was implemented extremely fast and thus without any loss of production. - Cooperation of many years The packaging machine producer MSK is proud to be called their “preferred supplier” for packaging solutions at Electrolux. These two companies are connected by a successful cooperation of many years which is now to be continued with deliveries to Thailand in 2010, as well as with a recently placed order of four further MSK Tensiontech stretch hood machines for a plant in Italy. The variety of over 50 MSK machines for packaging of dish washers, washing machines and dryers at Electrolux includes shrink packaging systems, stretch hood machines and very extensive complete systems with conveyor technology and visualized controlling software MSK EMSY. - MSK technical-scale laboratory: check-up for packaging concepts At their technical-scale laboratory, MSK offers packaging tests for comparison of different packaging concepts, including stretch hood and shrink films as well as alternative packaging systems. Analyses focus on final packaging, which means they include the concurrence of primary and secondary packaging. MSK is renowned for their customized innovations: “Using the original customers’ products, the best method for handling and packaging is tested and analyzed together with the customer at our technical-scale laboratory. By doing so, their experiences add to ours and the resulting unique systems and concepts form a great business advantage for our customers”, Uwe Jonkmann explains. Many leading OEMs, such as BSH, Buderus, Electrolux, GE, Trane and Whirlpool – all of them using MSK stretch hood packaging solutions – have already experienced the benefit of these advantages. (MSK Verpackungs-Systeme GmbH)   30.07.2010   SCA developed heavyweight champion in beverage displays    ( Company news ) Extremely strong and rotund is what constitutes the keg-shaped campaign display by SCA Packaging in Germany for Huber Packaging Group. What makes it astonishing: The Point-Of-Sales eye-catcher of corrugated board can easily hold up to 30 party-kegs containing 5 litres (5,3 quarts) each and can bear a total of 165 kilos (364 pounds). This opens new possibilities for breweries, liquor stores and food retailers to present and promote the 5-litre-kegs. Up to six different brands or kinds of beer can be offered for sale on three plies on the real-life keg design. The 5-liter-kegs can easily and individually be removed without compromising stability or the look of the display. Moreover the included fuse elements allow two displays to be used as a transport unit for 60 filled kegs on a whole euro-pallet. - Variable cover design The display cover guarantees a variable design. The corrugated-keg is easily turned into an eye-catcher for the soccer world cup, a post for outdoor grilling, or a representation of a major keg brand. Easy exchange of the top label and the pallet cover make upcoming promotions very simple. The display can be modified and restocked over and over again, since the good stability ensures the display’s durability. (SCA Packaging Deutschland Stiftung & Co. KG)   27.07.2010   New butterfly valve for corrosive media    ( Company news ) The demand for highly corrosion resistant butterfly valves continues to grow and GEMÜ have introduced a new range to complement their other lined butterfly valves. The new GEMÜ 490 butterfly valve is fitted with a TFM liner and PFA-encapsulated stainless steel disc as standard. The design of the butterfly valve, and especially the liner, the shaft seal and backing has been optimised to reduce actuation torques, while providing increased tightness at the same time. The new butterfly valve therefore uses smaller actuators, this being reflected in reduced purchase and operating costs. The technical improvements to the sealing concept increase the service life and reduce the probability of failure. - Why TFM instead of PTFE TFM is a further development of the classic PolyTetraFluorEthylene (PTFE) material. The tremendous properties of PTFE have been improved even more in this second generation. - Properties of TFM  TFM is highly resistant to chemicals and can therefore be used almost universally.  The gas permeability is significantly less than with conventional PTFE (see diagram 2). This means that less medium diffuses through a TFM seal with the same material thickness as PTFE. 3 mm thick TFM material corresponds to around 5-6 mm thick PTFE. In line with the requirements of the chemical industry, the material thickness of the liner and coating of the butterfly disc is at least 3 mm for the GEMÜ 490.  The cold flow properties with TFM are significantly lower than with PTFE. A significantly lower plastic deformation of the material therefore results at the same mechanical stress (see diagram 1). This means that the liners of butterfly valves will remain dimensionally stable for longer.  The surface quality of TFM is considerably improved in comparison to PTFE (see diagram 3). The smoother surface reduces the mechanical friction and hence wear by the butterfly disc. The liner remains durable for longer and less ground particles find their way into the medium. At the same time, the liner for the GEMÜ 490 is shaped spherically inside and outside, thereby reducing the torque and extending the service life. - The backing The backing behind the actual liner consists of two parts. Both backing parts are fully inserted in the space between the body and the TFM liner and centred with the shaft bushing. The backings are sufficiently strong in design, so that their flexibility is better transferred to the TFM liner. At the same time, the tolerances of the backings have been further reduced. The greater fitting accuracy leads to improved mechanical properties. The backing is also designed in such a way that it resists considerably greater deformations with permanent elasticity. The side play between the backing and liner is so great that no negative stresses can be transferred when compressing the liner between the flanges. These design measures also result in a further reduction in the torque and hence a longer service life of the liner. - The spindle seal The spindle seal has also been optimised further. The transition from shaft disc to liner is positive and edge-free in design. Every shaft bushing has dual protection against overload, so that the butterfly valve fulfils the leakage in the Technical Guidelines on Air Quality Control (TA Luft) VDI 2440 paragraph 5.2.6.4. - Explosion protection GEMÜ 490 is available in ATEX compliant versions for explosion endangered areas of group II, zones 0, 1, 2 or 20, 21 and 22. - General technical data GEMÜ 490 is available in sizes DN 40 – 1000. A wafer design and a lugged version for end-of-line duty are the body design options. The body material is available in GGG 40.3, stainless steel 316 L and cast steel as standard. Special materials are available on request both for wafer and lugged bodies. The maximum operating pressure is 10 bar at DN 40 – 600 and 6 bar at DN 650 – 1000. The temperature limits are -20°C to max. 200°C, in relation to the pressure-temperature curve in the valve technical data. - Operators GEMÜ 490 is available with manual (GEMÜ 497), pneumatic (GEMÜ 491) and motorized (GEMÜ 498) operators. The pneumatic actuators can be fitted with pilot valves, electrical position indicators and positioners. In this way, the new butterfly valve can be integrated in any automated system. Smaller operators can be used due to the reduced torque which results in lower purchase and operating costs. - Areas of application for GEMÜ 490 The TFM liner of the butterfly valve provides a very high resistance to chemicals. The butterfly disc is made from stainless steel or PFA-encapsulated stainless steel. The butterfly valve is used in all applications where corrosive liquids and gases are to be controlled. Typical examples are:  Chemical industry  Mining and metal extraction  Steel works  Treatment of highly corrosive waste waters  Treatment and distribution of ultra-pure water in pharmaceutical installations and in the semiconductor industry Thanks to its construction, it can also be used in explosion endangered areas. The butterfly valve has also been approved for applications up to 200°C in accordance with the TA Luft standard. (GEMÜ Gebr. Müller Apparatebau GmbH & Co. KG)   23.07.2010   CleanSqueeze® Valve Cap - When Precision is called for…    ( Company news ) CleanSqueeze® is the name of a new line of WEENER valve caps offered by the WEENER Plastic Packaging Group with its headquarter in Weener, northern Germany, in a wide variety of models for countless applications and markets. End consumers are demanding. The days when they were satisfied with merely a quality product are over – meanwhile, in fact, this is simply a given expectation. It is the added value that causes a consumer to choose one product over another. This can be an especially harmonious or a trendy design but more often the end consumer selects a particular product because it comes in clever packaging. We know that packaging plays a crucial role in the handling of the contents, as well as in the way that the contents behave. Maximum convenience is the primary feature that end consumers expect from their product. It is this factor that will cause them to choose a particular product repeatedly over another and to remain loyal to it. - Experience Leads to a High Level of Competency CleanSqueeze® valve caps have a particularly positive effect on the easy and comfortable handling of viscous products. WEENER looks back on more than 15 years of experience in the area of valve cap solutions, the most obvious application is probably still the proverbial honey container. Not only in the food sector are valve caps the first choice, however. Cosmetics users are also becoming increasingly fond of the clean and trouble-free handling offered by containers equipped with valve caps, since they ensure that only the desired amount of product can be dispensed precisely and comfortably – important advantages in the eyes of the user. WEENER introduced the valve cap to the market in the mid-nineties, revolutionising the container sector. While the focus was on visco-elastic products at first, solutions are now being offered with which even liquids such as water can be dispensed. When developing valve cap solutions, WEENER always has the entire packaging in mind. As in the saying "great events often come from little causes" it is the valve – often very small in comparison to the entire packaging – that has the greatest influence on the behaviour of the product. The three cornerstones by which the developers at WEENER orient themselves for the CleanSqueeze® valve are the selected raw material, its geometry and finally, of course, the opening. These three factors offer innumerable pathways for influencing the design. - Countless Possibilities In regard to raw materials, WEENER relies on silicone and TPE, and offers a broad variety of different valve configurations that differ from each other in their various geometries and diameters or openings. Virtually any requirements specification can be executed in this way, including the most detailed one. In the case that a valve cap is not already available in the WEENER assortment, it can be quickly developed with the help of modern simultaneous engineering methods. In any case, the potential of WEENER CleanSqueeze® valves is far from exhausted. Complex measurement and analysis methods are available to analyse the behaviour of a valve during opening, closing and ventilation. New valve, material and opening variations can be developed and modified to suit the customer's requirements. WEENER offers an extensive assortment of standard valve caps that can fulfil the demands for practically every application. One of the company's major unique characteristics is the fact that they offer a system package consisting of a valve cap and a bottle from a single source. To date WEENER is the only company on the market that is able to offer this combination. This option offers numerous advantages for the customer while simultaneously significantly contributing to an increase in throughput. In regard to bottles, WEENER specialises particularly in flattened oval shapes. (Weener Plastik AG)   23.07.2010   THE FUTURE OF “ROLL-FED” LABELLING    ( Company news ) Demo version of the new Adhesleeve technology for high-performance bottling lines. PET bottle tests on a running conveyor loop – Hall 4-Stand n. B001 The Roll Fed labelling machine as simple as an ADHESIVE one! Adhesleeve technology introduces in the market of Roll-Fed machines 2 major innovations 1ST INNOVATION - elimination of the use of the hot melt with the following advantages:  environmental: absence of fumes produced by heating the hot melt (to around 150°C);  sanitary: it is no longer necessary to utilise solvents to clean the label application cylinder (having eliminated the hot melt no residual glue is left to clean)  ecological: the absence of hot melt makes the label free from any contamination, so 100% recyclable, together with the bottle and the cap. 2nd INNOVATION - the label cut is no longer effected by fixed cutting blades interacting with rotary ones, in this way several BIG PROBLEMS have been easily solved:  Adjustments: no necessity to adjust the cutting unit for various film thicknesses, considerable changes in the ambient temperature, no worn out blades etc.  Replacements: it takes only 10 minutes (at most) to replace the cutting devices without tools or adjustments! The life of the new cutting devices is much longer than the classical cutting system;  Efficiency: 100% elimination of production stops, potentially due to imperfect label cut, film stretching with consequent reduction of its thickness, different film thicknesses due to an excessive quantity of paint on a reel, etc. The new cutting devices do not require any servicing or adjustment. Films with thicknesses different from standard ones can be used. ADHESLEEVE uses film thicknesses lower than the films that are normally used on classic Roll-Fed labellers and allows a “reduction of the label costs” Among PE’s customers using ADHESLEEVE technology: Conserve Italia, Fonti Spinone-Spumador, Oleificio Zucchi, Kemeco – in Italy; abroad – Cisowianka, Senoble, Marlafekas, Laiterie Soummam, Aje Group. EMBALLAGE – Paris (France) November 22nd to 25th, 2010 Hall 4 – Stand B001 (P.E. Labellers S.p.A.)   21.07.2010   India: SABMiller India to innovate in new access points to its beer     ( E-Malt.com ) SABMiller India, the second largest brewer in the country, is eyeing innovative access points to sell more beers in the next 12-18 months using the relaxation and emotional connects, Financial Chronicle posted on July, 11. Along with Vijay Mallya owned United Breweries, SABMiller controls about 80 per cent of the Indian beer market which, according to market research firm International Wine and Spirit Record, sold around 181.5 million cases in 2009. "Our current portfolio in India has well-known brands such as Haywards, Fosters, Indus Pride, Peroni, Royal Challenge premium lager and Knock Out. We plan to innovate on creating new access points for Indian beer consumers. There are about 15,000 people per outlet in India compared to 300 people in Europe,” said Derek Jones, director - marketing, SABMiller India. With so many customers in every outlet, the quality of engagement dips and does not create a suitable environment for responsible drinking, Jones, who has worked in the UK-based SABMiller's Czech, Russian and South African operations, added. This is also where the opportunity lies in ramping up the current beer consumption, which stands at 1.2-1.3 litres per capita. "Relaxation and emotional connects like Bollywood and sports are big passion here. This is where activations like F-Row (a separate row in Inox), Dominos tie-up for home-parties and swimming pool party engagements (Australian barbeque) create an environment for alcohol consumption. Currently, sports stadium environments don't allow consumption but in future things might change, creating fresh access points," the marketing head, whose previous assignments include P&G and British Petroleum, said. He declined to give specifics of new initiatives. The company is evaluating the market to see which of its international brands can be launched in India. Apart from Peroni, SABMiller has three other global brands like Grolsch, Miller Genuine Draft and Pilsner Urquell. Recently, global beer brands such as Carlsberg and Heineken have forayed into the Indian market. "However, we don't see any imminent threat from them as we enjoy first mover's advantage and stronger brand recall in India," said Jones. SABMiller India, which owns 10 breweries in the country, may also be exploring brewing options in Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, West Bengal, Diu & Daman and Goa, but nothing has been firmed up as yet, he added.   21.07.2010   Japan: Asahi’s beer sales up in June but still lower in the first half of this year    ( E-Malt.com ) Japan’s Asahi Breweries said on June, 13 its total domestic beer sales increased by 5.5% to 233,771 kl in June 2010. January – June beer sales dropped by 3.9% to 974,197 kl. Low-malt happoshu beer saw the biggest decrease in demand – minus 24.2% in June and minus 31.8% in the first half of this year. Sales of ordinary beer grew by 3.1% in June and dropped by 4.6% in January - June, whereas new genre malt-based beer enjoyed a 42.2% growth last month and a 25.5% growth in the first six months of 2010. Clear Asahi was the only brand to see increase in demand both in June and in the January – June period of 2010. Sales of Style Free grew by 2.8 in June, whereas Super Dry and Asahi Off saw flat sales volume as compared to the same month in 2009. Super Dry, Style Free and Asahi Off all registered lower sales in January – June, minus 5.7, 3.9 and 10.7 per cent respectively.   21.07.2010   Latvia: Cēsu brewery makes record sales in July     ( E-Malt.com ) In June this year, Latvian brewer JSC Cēsu alus set a company record by selling 25% more beer than in June 2009. In the first six months beer sales in Latvia have increased by 14%, the company reported on July 13. The bottle segment rose 20% compared to June 2009, while monthly sales of beer in glass bottles increased by 36%. The canned segment grew by 71% compared to May 2010 and by 12% compared to June 2009. Chairman of JSC Cēsu alus Board Eva Sietiņsone – Zatlere commented: “The warm weather has warmed up the economy of Latvia and has increased optimism. It is proved by the growing sales results of Premium segment, which had in June the highest sales on record.” These results were possible also due to good performance of the HoReCa segment, great weather conditions, and the successful organisation and wide audiences of various open-air events, the company said.   21.07.2010   South Africa: SABMiller sells more than expected during Soccer World Cup    ( E-Malt.com ) South African Breweries, the local subsidiary of the world’s second-largest brewer SABMiller plc, said its sales volumes during the Soccer World Cup were slightly ahead of expectations, Business Day reported on July, 16. SAB said volumes for the five- week World Cup period came in slightly ahead of the original estimate of 100,000 hectolitres. SAB sold an additional 130,000 hectolitres, which equates to 44- million 340ml beers. This was over and above normal consumption during the June-July period. The increased sales took place across SAB’s portfolio of products, with Castle Lager and Castle Lite proving particularly popular, along with Hansa and Carling Black Label. Of the international premium brands, Grolsch, Millers and Peroni resonated well with foreign visitors as well as local supporters, with the draught offering selling well. “This extra volume will support SAB’s financial results for the first quarter of 2010, which were otherwise restrained by Easter timing and the cold weather,” SAB said. SAB runs seven breweries and 42 depots in SA with an annual brewing capacity of 3.1 billion litres. SAB MD Norman Adami said SAB had implemented a detailed plan to ensure the country was well supplied. He said SAB had recognised the opportunity the Cup presented for the country, and decided to make a substantial contribution to the event, despite not being an official sponsor. This resulted in SAB investing about R170 mln in the tournament.   20.07.2010   Buhler commits to food safety    ( Company news ) The Buhler Technology Group is supporting the “Global Initiative for Food Systems Leadership” (GIFSL) within the scope of multi-year support to the University of Minne-sota. The global GIFSL initiative involves educational institutions in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Africa and is working together with government agencies, private companies from the food sector and non-governmental organizations. It is fostering an inter-disciplinary and inter-cultural network, car-rying out training programs to support international cooperation and encouraging strategic partnerships to promote food safety. Since 2008, more than 500 people from almost 50 countries have taken part in the GIFSL programs. As a provider of production technologies for food manufacturing, food safety has always been a core theme for Buhler. The commitment of the globally active group can therefore be viewed as a wider initiative in ongoing efforts to offer optimum solutions for customers, which meet the growing require-ments of food safety. The support of the University of Minnesota as an active member of GIFSL will extend over several years. The funds will be used on the one hand for professional further training programs, and on the other hand to promote cooperation between food manufacturers and providers of the process engineering technologies required for this. This will stimulate attention to hygiene aspects in the planning, construction and equipping of plants. The primary objective is to improve global systems for ensuring food safety. (Bühler AG)   16.07.2010   AFRISO-EURO-INDEX: Water limiter in heating systems    ( Company news ) The AFRISO WATCHDOG boiler water low level alarm WMS monitors the water level in heating systems as per EN 12828. If the water level drops below a minimum level, WMS triggers an alarm and the boiler is switched off. The complete WMS boiler water low level alarm consists of a control unit and a probe, which are connected by means of a two-core signal cable with a maximum length of 50 m. The control unit is supplied with AC 230 V. It contains all display and control elements as well as a voltage-free output relay for transmitting the signal, for example to an alarm unit or event reporting systems. WMS is fail-safe and self-monitoring; in addition to low water levels, it signals wire breaks or errors in the probe circuits. WMS is suitable for ambient temperatures of 0 °C to 55 °C, for heating water temperatures of up to 120 °C and for water pressures of up to 10 bar. The WMS boiler water low level alarm is available in various versions: With internal power failure lock (after a power failure, the control unit must be reset) or with an external power failure lock (the control unit is automatically reset after a power failure). A button (normally open) may be connected at a distance of up to 200 m to the control unit for external resetting. The probe is available in 2 versions: The probe version DN 20 with angular brass housing and a plastic housing top with an electrode rod that can be pulled for testing the function of the unit. DN 20 features two welding sockets (DN 20) for installation. The probe version R 2 has an electrode housing made of galvanised steel and a threaded socket (R 2 male thread) for screw connection. The WATCHDOG boiler water low level alarm WMS is easy and quick to commission and has the following certificates: TÜV HWB 04-345 and TÜV HWB 04-348. (Afriso-Euro-Index GmbH)   16.07.2010   Drinks cans: Digital printing adds fizz to the market    ( Company news ) Custom designs in photorealistic quality open up new market potential Ball Packaging Europe has brought digital printing for beverage cans to market maturity. At its Hassloch plant in Germany, Ball can now produce beverage cans printed either the conventional way or with photorealistic custom designs. A first vanguard of customers is already using the new technology to market small special-edition production runs. Reproducing custom designs in unprecedented quality, digital printing follows the resealable closure as a second game-changing technology able to unlock new markets for beverages cans. A digital print head applies images straight onto the can surface at resolutions up to 600 dpi. The images pass directly from computer to production line without any need to make up a printing plate. This is not just a time saver; it means every container can be printed at top quality with a different design. Use of the CMYK colour model makes for picture-perfect colour reproduction. Digital printing applies inks wet on wet, one on top of the other, to match every possible shade and hue. The result is sharp, photorealistic imagery that catches the eye on the kiosk or supermarket shelf. This contrasts with the traditional relief process which involves determining in advance which ink to apply to which printing plate. The conventional method can handle at most six or eight different ink colors and cannot compete with digital printing for realism. New marketing opportunities through digital printing “Our new technology gives customers completely new opportunities in terms of marketing, securing customer loyalty and gaining new customer segments,” explains Robert Jansen, Director Innovation at Ball Packaging Europe. Digital printing can serve as a positioning tool for premium brands. For example, for exclusive events in major cities like London, Berlin or Paris, beverage cans can be printed just in time with topical designs for the event concerned. Another possibility is that sponsors are visibly present with specially designed cans at regional sporting events (such as soccer series) or cultural occasions (musicals, Last Night of the Proms, theater festivals, etc.). Also, digital printing allows the online marketing of beverage brands by incorporating the consumers’ own ideas into can design, which opens up completely new business opportunities in the long term. Digital printing can also be a useful tool in promotion campaigns, for example the launch of a new brand or a celebration. The new printing technique notably permits small production runs at low cost. Initial customers are already making use of this facility, and digitally printed cans were presented at an event recently for the first time. It is here that Robert Jansen sees the new technology’s true potential. “Our customers want creative, attention-grabbing design. This helps them stand out at events, product launches and the like, and in successfully marketing their products,” Jansen says. “Digital printing gives the drinks can even greater potential as an ideal marketing tool” Joint effort by Ball and Tonejet Ball Packaging developed the digital printing process jointly with its British cooperation partner, Tonejet. Tonejet contributed a new print head for precise printing of drinks cans, while Ball fine-tuned its production machinery for the new process. Ball incorporated a prototype of the digital printing press into its standard production line at the Hassloch plant in spring 2009. The manufacturer can now print in parallel on this production line using both the conventional relief method and digitally, without halting or even slowing production. The digital prototype currently has an output of 120 cans a minute, set to rise to 200 cans a minute in the future. (Ball Packaging Europe Holding GmbH & Co. KG)   16.07.2010   Grünbeck is founding a subsidiary in Italy    ( Company news ) The positive results in the development of the Italian market for water treatment have encouraged Grünbeck Wasseraufbereitung GmbH to found a subsidiary in Italy. With the establishment of Grünbeck Italia S.r.l., the Hoechstaedt-based water treatment company is taking the next step in expanding its presence in the European market. The incorporation of Grünbeck Italia S.r.l. took place at the end of April 2010. „Past experiences in Italy created a solid basis for the further development of the market and with an independent subsidiary, we will be able to operate even more effectively“, says Dr. Guenter Stoll, the General Manager of Grünbeck Wasseraufbereitung GmbH. Particularly in the area of residential applications and heating protection, the future prospects are very promising. The management board of Grünbeck Italia S.r.l is made up by Giuseppe Malizia, Peter Lachenmeir and Edwin Bauermann-Roos. The company is based in the city of Parma in northern Italy. (Grünbeck Wasseraufbereitung GmbH)   12.07.2010   AFRISO-EURO-INDEX: Solar Pump Group PrimoSol 130-1    ( Company news ) The new AFRISO PrimoSol 130-1 solar pump line is integrated into the return line of intrinsically safe closed solar thermal systems (between the solar tank and the solar collector). PrimoSol 130-1 circulates heat transfer liquids (such as water, water-glycol mixtures) up to a height of 5.5 m and is suitable for system pressures up to 6 bar. The completely pre-assembled, leak-tested and heat-insulated assembly consists of a flow meter, a pump, a combination cock, a safety group assembly, insulation and wall mounting material. The flow meter includes a ball type stop cock. The circulation pump which is optionally available for a pump head of up to 8 m is supplied with AC 220 V. The combination cock contains a hand wheel with an integrated blue thermometer and a gravity brake. The safety group assembly consists of a pressure gauge, a solar safety and mounting valve and the connection to the expansion vessel. The pump group is fully contained in protective EPP expanded propylene foam which also serves as a safe transport packing. PrimoSol 130-1 contains all required safety and operational elements and is ideally suited for cost-effective use in new systems or for retrofitting existing systems. The solar pump line is designed to suit the exact requirements of solar systems currently used in the market so that the installation is quick and easy. (Afriso-Euro-Index GmbH)   12.07.2010   Germany: Oktoberfest visitors not allowed to smoke over their beer anymore     ( E-Malt.com ) Smokers heading to Germany's famous annual beer festival, Oktoberfest, will be forced to smoke outside after voters supported a total smoking ban in Bavaria for restaurants, bars, cafes and beer tents, UKPA reported this week. Although turnout for the referendum was relatively low, at 37.7%, a full 61% of those voting favoured a complete ban on smoking, according to Bavarian election officials. The ban overturning an existing law will take effect on August 1 - with an exception allowing limited smoking at this year's Oktoberfest. The result reinstates a complete ban imposed in 2008 but loosened by the state government last year. The milder law permitted smoking in small, one-room bars, nightclubs and discos, as well as the vast tents of the beer festival. Oktoberfest managers have appealed for an exemption, claiming that it would be impossible to monitor the ban in tents holding thousands of revellers. “We had hoped that sense would prevail and that we could retain our tradition,” said Toni Roiderer, spokesman for the festival brewers, “but if the majority sees it otherwise, then we won’t permit smoking any more in the beer tents.” An unrepresentative survey on the Oktoberfest website found 70 per cent opposed to the ban. The Bavarian state government has insisted this year’s Oktoberfest will be exempt from the ban. Meanwhile, Bavaria’s Green Party, which supported the referendum, has called for the new law to be imposed nationally.   12.07.2010   Kenya: Tusker beer sales up 60% despite tax increase    ( E-Malt.com ) Sales figures of Tusker beer, the most important brand of East African Breweries have defied recent increases in excise duty on beer and rose up due to an on-going promotion and World Cup related expenditure, Standard Media reported on July, 7. According to Martin Nyongesa, the sales manager at one of the country’s largest beer distributors, Rwathia Distributors, consumption of Tusker has gone up by almost 60%. "Ordinarily we sell up to 2,500 cases of beer, but since the advent of World Cup, we’ve been doing about 4,000 cases a day," says Nyongesa, who attributes the massive increases in sales to higher circulation of Tusker. Nyongesa says the increase in sales began immediately after the launch of a promotion dubbed ‘Tusker 50 Mili ya Mafans,’ which seeks to reward consumers with cash and prizes worth over Sh50 million (over USD 600 thousand). "The promotion has helped increase the numbers for Tusker. Other brands like Guinness have also seen significant increase in consumption, but Tusker has been phenomenal," says Nyongesa. Not long ago, it was widely believed that beer makers and consumers would be the main losers in the 2010/11 budget, after Finance Minister Uhuru Kenyatta increased excise duty on malt and non-malted beer from Sh54 and Sh45 per litre, to Sh65 per litre and Sh55 respectively. This saw a marked rise of the recommended retail price of beer with that of Tusker climbing from Sh85 to Sh90. Some outlets even went above the five-shilling margin and instead increased prices by bigger margins.   12.07.2010   Peru: SABMiller targets premium segment by launching iconic Miller Genuine Draft     ( E-Malt.com ) World’s No. 2 brewer SABMiller announced on July, 2 that Peru will be the first market in South America to begin selling its iconic Miller Genuine Draft brand - part of SABMiller's plan to drive up profitability in the region by promoting premium brands. Miller Genuine Draft is now available in 72 countries around the world and has become the top selling beer in SABMiller's portfolio of global brands, according to a statement. It is thought that Miller Genuine Draft will be popular with Peruvian consumers because of their strong connection with American heritage and iconography. The brand will target 18-29 year old male and female consumers. SABMiller said the brand will initially be launched at selected bars, restaurants and nightclubs in Peru's capital city, Lima. Peru offers one of the most dynamic food and drink sectors in the region, with strong forecasts for economic growth, experts consider.   12.07.2010   Romania: Carlsberg’s Romanian subsidiary launches unique version of Tuborg    ( E-Malt.com ) United Romanian Breweries Bereprod (URBB), Carlsberg’s Romanian subsidiary, entered the flavored beer segment by launching Tuborg Tropical beer last month, Corporate News communicated on July 08. Tuborg Tropical will be bottled and retailed in Romania only, the company has announced. “We have been considering the possibility of introducing a special beer in our portfolio for a while now, and the researches we made helped us to identify the best option for the new product – the combination of passion fruit and lime is unique to the Romanian market,” Doron Zilbersten, URBB marketing vice-president, said. “Moreover, we are the only country that produces and retails this extension of the Tuborg brand – present in over 100 countries,” he added.   07.07.2010   WATCHDOG Oil/water alarm ÖWU    ( Company news ) Photo: The AFRISO WATCHDOG oil/water alarm ÖWU monitors rooms for unwanted oil or water accumulations. The AFRISO WATCHDOG oil/water alarm ÖWU was designed to detect oil or water accumulations. ÖWU consists of a control unit and a probe with two sensors which are connected by means of a five-core signal cable. The control unit contains the following elements in an impact-resistant plastic housing: display elements and controls as well as all electronic components for signal processing and conversion of the probe signal into a digital output signal which is available via two voltage-free relay contacts (1 changeover, 1 normally open). The height-adjustable probe is mounted at the lowest point of the area to be monitored. If the unit detects oil or water, it immediately generates visual (red lamp for oil, yellow lamp for water) and audible alarms; the audible alarm can be switched off with the reset button. The display unit is supplied with AC 230 V. It is designed for wall-mounting or installation in control cabinets or control panels (optional mounting frame required). ÖWU detects water, heating oil EL, L, M, diesel oil and low-viscosity lubricating oil (group A III and danger class A III), motor oil, gearbox oil, hydraulic oil, vegetable oil and transformer oil. In order to achieve maximum reliability, it is possible to connect AFRISO event reporting systems to the ÖWU oil/water alarm. The operator is then immediately informed of alarms via SMS, telephone, e-mail or the internet to allow for fast and efficient action. (Afriso-Euro-Index GmbH)   05.07.2010   Australia: Foster’s brews Carlton Natural     ( E-Malt.com ) Australia’s No. 1 brewer Foster’s Group announced on June, 30 the launch of a new addition to the Carlton range - Carlton Natural. Carlton Natural hits the flavour and style bulls-eye for 25-30 year old guys looking for easy drinking, crisp dry flavour in beer that is low carb and brewed with natural ingredients, the company said. The launch of Carlton Natural will be supported with a mulit-million dollar trade and consumer marketing campaign featuring TV and press ads, outdoor billboards and on and off-premise executions, in market over the coming months.   05.07.2010   The Netherlands: Czech beer Pilsner Urquell to be distributed in a highly selective way     ( E-Malt.com ) Grolsch is introducing the SABMiller brand Pilsner Urquell to the Dutch market, the parent company SABMiller communicated on June, 29. Grolsch will take charge of all Pilsner Urquell distribution, marketing and sales activities in the Netherlands. Pilsner Urquell is inextricably linked with its birthplace of Pilsen, located in the historical Central European region of Bohemia in the modern-day Czech Republic. The beer is still produced with the same ingredients and in accordance with the same process as in 1842. Pilsner Urquell is imported from the Czech Republic and will be highly selectively distributed within the Netherlands. The beer will be available on tap and/or in 330ml bottles at exclusive restaurants, selected bars, and specialist off-licences. Just like Grolsch, Pilsner Urquell is one of SABMiller's major international beer brands. A growing number of consumers are becoming increasingly keen to sample new beer brands and experiences. By launching this authentic Czech beer in the Netherlands, Grolsch and SABMiller wish to offer their customers a distinctive and individual alternative to the range of beers currently available in the Netherlands.   05.07.2010   United Kingdom: AB InBev to launch Stella Artois Black this autumn     ( E-Malt.com ) AB InBev UK is rolling out a new lager, Stella Artois Black, The Publican communicate on June, 29. The 4.9 per cent beer, which is not black at all but rather a golden brew, will be produced in and imported from Belgium. The brewer said it will be available in “selected on-trade locations” from the autumn. AB InBev UK president Stuart MacFarlane said the product was “another demonstration of our commitment to innovation and investment in the Stella Artois family”. It built on the “ongoing success of Stella Artois 5%, and following the very successful 2008 launch of Stella Artois 4%”, he added. MacFarlane said Stella Artois Black would offer what he called a “premium plus” experience, “complete with bespoke font, glassware and a reverential pouring ritual”.   05.07.2010   United Kingdom: Guinness sales far from record in the UK     ( E-Malt.com ) During the past year sales of Guinness in Britain have fallen by seven million pints, despite heavy promotion of the 250th anniversary of Guinness’s Dublin brewery, The Independent communicated on June, 28. The decline is part of longer term trend: over the last three years British sales have slumped by £28.5 mln, according to a new report by the market research company Mintel. The beer’s owner, Diageo plc, has tried, so far without success, to arrest the decline by a marketing blitz and new product launches. Guinness accounts for 54 per cent of all advertising on stout and bitter, it is reported. Earlier this year Diageo launched Guinness lager, which it is trialling in Northern Ireland, hoping it will fare better than a lighter version introduced three years ago, Guinness Red. Diageo accounts show that less Britons drank less Guinness in the six months to February and less during 2009 than in 2008. Although British sales by value fell by “only 1 per cent” in the year to June 2009, price rises – Guinness now costs an average £2.94 – have masked a steeper decline in volume. Guinness’s GB Marketing Manager, John Roscoe, said sales by volume were down 2 per cent in the last 12 months, the equivalent of 7 million fewer pints. “The major cause is the decline of the beer market,” he said. “People are going to the pub less and there has been a move away from beer and into wine and spirits.” Pub closures are of particular concern. Out of 52,500 pubs, two per cent, 1,013 closed in the last half of last year and, although shop sales have been rising, they cannot make up for the fall in draught sales in pubs and bars. In a report into the Ales and Stouts, Mintel estimated that in the three years to the end of last year, UK sales of Guinness fell by three per cent from £943 mln to £915 mln. In pubs and other “on-trade” premises, they fell by £35 mln to £795 mln. Shops sales rose by only £6.5 mln to £120.3 mln – leaving a net loss of £28.5 mln. Mintel was sceptical about its ability to counteract the long-term decline in pubs despite growing its share of the ale and stout market - which it said was not surprising given its advertising spend. “It suffers from a similar problem to the ale sector in that it is overly dependent on pubs for its revenue... which has meant that its revenue has been declining rapidly in the face of pub closures,” Mintel said. “Guinness has not had a successful innovation since its Extra Cold variant a decade ago. Guinness Red sank largely without trace, and it will be interesting to see whether its new Black Lager and Mid-Strength variants can take off and give its sales a much-needed boost.” Mr Roscoe said the company was concentrating on improving the quality of draught Guinness in pubs, introducing the drink to new licensed premises and innovating - including the launch of Guinness Black Lager in March. Guinness staff have been handing out the drink free. If successful, it is likely to be launched on the mainland.   30.06.2010   Finland: Sinebrychoff develops Finland’s beer culture by launching three new limited editions    ( E-Malt.com ) Finnish brewer Sinebrychoff said on June, 22 it was developing Finland's domestic beer culture by presenting a new Finnish Nikolai premium beer that will be sold for a limited period each year. The first of the series is Nikolai Vuosiolut 2011. In September, Nikolai Vuosiolut 2011 4.5% will be sold in stores in 0.5-litre cans. In restaurants the 5% version of the beer will be sold in 33-cl glass bottles, the company said. On the market since 1988, Nikolai beer is the Sinebrychoff brewmasters' tribute to Nikolai Sinebrychoff. The product family named for the founder of the brewery already includes Nikolai Vaalea Lager (Light Lager), Nikolai Tumma Lager (Dark Lager), as well as two completely non-alcoholic beers. Nikolai Sinebrychoff began brewing beer at Suomenlinna. In 1819 he obtained permission to found a brewery in the Hietalahti section of Helsinki. In the 1850s Nikolai's brother Paul began to brew beer with the Bavarian bottom fermented process still used to brew domestic lagers. To celebrate its 25th anniversary in August, the Lammin Sahti brewery will launch its Pöllö (Owl) beer, a darkish top fermented ale. In the autumn, Pöllö will supplement Sinebrychoff's House of Beer selection, which since March of 2007 has included another Lammin Sahti beer, Käki (Cuckoo). Pöllö's alcohol content is 4.5%. Pöllö first appeared at the Helsinki Beer Festival in April. In the summer, Lammin Sahti will sell the beer through its own distribution channels, and in September Sinebrychoff will begin national distribution from restaurants. The rock-style draught beer Saku Rock from the Estonian Saku brewery will supplement Sinebrychoff's House of Beer selection from early September until the end of November. The 5.3% lager will be sold in 30-litre kegs and enjoyed at approximately 130 beer restaurants. Sinebrychoff provides beer restaurants with interesting draught beers from Finland and the rest of the world year round. House of Beer products are launched in December, April and September.   30.06.2010   Romania: Ursus Breweries brings back one of its stronger beers     ( E-Malt.com ) Ursus Breweries is reintroducing its Stejar Strong (7% alc. vol.) on the domestic market, Food & Bar communicated on June, 24. The beer is available in 2 litre PET bottles, 0.5 litre glass bottles, and cans. Ursus Breweries, one of Romania’s leading brewers, is a subsidiary of SABMiller plc, the world’s second-largest brewer after the Belgian AB InBev.   30.06.2010   Russia & Syria: Baltika starts shipping its beer to Syria    ( E-Malt.com ) Baltika Breweries said on June, 24 it had shipped the first container of Baltika № 7 Export, Baltika № 9 Extra, Baltika Cooler, Baltika Cooler Lime, and Nevskoe ICE to Syria. The total shipment comprises 35,000 litres, the company reports. Baltika products will be available in the premium segment in the retail outlets, bars, and restaurants of major Syrian cities: Damascus, Lattakia, Kameshli, Hasake, and Aleppo. The average cost of a 0.5-litre glass bottle of beer will be about 70 Syrian pounds (US$1.50). Baltika products are available in the following Middle Eastern countries: Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Iran, Bahrain, and Israel. Baltika is the only Russian brewer on the market in the majority of countries in the region. Baltika beer is available both in traditional retail outlets and in the HoReCa segment. Russian beer is consumed mainly by local residents and the numerous tourists who visit the area. In 2009, Baltika sales in the region totalled approximately 2.4 million litres.   30.06.2010   Serbia: Apatinska Brewery launches Czech beer     ( E-Malt.com ) Apatinska Brewery has started producing Staropramen, the first Czech beer to be brewed in Serbia, Glas-Javnosti.rs reported on June, 17. The initial investment is worth 5 million euros, sources said. Staropramen is manufactured in Apatin under license from Staropramen brewery in Prague. The first 200,000 liters of Staropramen were sheduled to hit the shelves this week. The new brand will also be exported, the company said. Apatinska Brewery plans to invest another 10 million euros in production and about 13 million in other business activities. In 2009, the company sold approximately 3.2 billion litres of beer, of which 2.6 billion was distributed on the Serbian market and the rest was exported. Apatinska Brewery, located in the town of Apatin was built in 1756 and is the biggest brewery in Serbia. Its other popular products are Jelen Pivo and Pils Light. Apatinska Brewery had been a part of the Belgian brewing giant AB InBev till 2009, when private equity fund CVC Capital Partners purchased all of AB InBev's holdings in Central Europe for €2.23 billion.   Buyers' Guide: Raw materials   Raw materials for malt and beer production   Raw materials for non-alcoholic beverages production   Malts Machines and installations   Malt production machines and installations   Beverage production machines and installation   Pub breweries machines and installations   Filtration and separation   Filling and cleaning equipment   Packing and transportation systems   Machines and installations, misc.   Labelling and finishing mach., recording equipment, hardware Operating and laboratory equipment   Measuring equipment   Regulation systems   Control and processing systems   Measurement and control technology, misc.   Containers, tanks and accessories   Fittings and pumps   Disinfection and cleaning equipment, CIP systems   Laboratory equipment   Drive components, drives, couplings Energy management, working and packaging materials   Energy management: supply and disposal   Process materials   Labelling, packing materials and aids   Beverage containers and packages   Environmental protection, recycling and industrial safety Catering equipment   Dispensing systems and vending machines   Catering furniture and accecories   Tents and accessories Transport and sales vehicles   Dispensing and sales vehicles   Transport vehicles and equipment Organization and advertising   Organization, logistics, EDP and consulting services   Advertising media and promotional articles Trade press, associations, institutes, institutions   Trade journals   Associations, institutes, institutions Banco de datos | Registro | Jornal | Novedades | Publicidad | Productos del editorial | Foro | Links | Editorial

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