Bulgaria ranks 16th in Europe in beer production

“In 2011, Bulgaria produced 4.82 million hectolitres of beer, which ranks it 16th in the EU. In terms of beer consumption per capita, our country is 18th in the EU and occupies the 14th place in terms of beer sales. According to data of the Brewers of Europe, the EU produced a total of 377.5 million hectolitres of beer. European consumers may choose between almost 120 types beer and 40,000 local and international brands,” said Alexander Grancharov, Chairman of the Union of Brewers in Bulgaria, who opened last night the Fourth Autumn Beer Parlour at Grand Hotel Sofia, dedicated to dark beer.

“Bulgarian consumers are the most important for us. This winter season again, dark beer with its typical density and rich flavour, is our special offer. An increasing number of consumers appreciate the high quality of dark beer. The brewing companies within the Union of Brewers in Bulgaria produce eight brands of dark beer,” he added.

In 2011, beer consumption in Bulgaria registered a modest growth over the previous two years, reaching 5.1 million hectolitres. There is a strong reorientation of sales from the so-called “cold” market (HoReCa - in establishments, outside home) to the so-called “warm” market, which has considerably reduced the value added in the industry. The share of sales in stores has reached 74% of the volume of the beer market. This trend is also observed in the other EU countries, raising serious concerns and affecting adversely the jobs and incomes generated by the brewing industry.

Last year, Bulgaria exported 111,000 hectolitres of beer and imported 296,000 hectolitres. The brewing sector in Bulgaria accounts for 2,400 jobs.

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