Molson Coors Brings Carling to Ukraine

As we have done successfully in other markets, our strategy is to complement local expertise with our dedicated teams on the ground to work more closely with our partners to help grow our brands.

6/1/2011 --- Molson Coors Brewing Company announced that it has launched Carling in Ukraine, Eastern Europe’s second largest beer market, through a commercial joint venture with Obolon Company, a leading Ukraine brewer. Beginning this month, Carling in 500ml bottles will be available in grocery stores, bars and neighborhood stores across Ukraine. With the support of the new Ukrainian team in Kiev, Molson Coors and Obolon jointly will manage the marketing and distribution of Carling. Obolon will brew and package Carling for the Ukraine market.

Kandy Anand, president of Molson Coors International said, "As the second largest beer market in the Eastern Europe, the Ukraine presents an excellent opportunity for us to expand our global footprint in emerging markets. As we have done successfully in other markets, our strategy is to complement local expertise with our dedicated teams on the ground to work more closely with our partners to help grow our brands. Our joint venture with Obolon enables us to do just that with their strong distribution network and knowledge of the Ukrainian beer market. We are confident in the opportunity Carling presents as a premium lager in this growing market."

Ukraine’s beer industry has been growing at a rate of more than eight percent (CAGR) for the past 5 years. The premium segment, approximately 3 million HL, is growing fastest as consumers trade up from mainstream brands. With a lower per capita consumption, there is strong growth potential for the market in the coming years.

Obolon is a leading Ukraine brewer with nearly 27 percent market share, two breweries and eight brands in their portfolio. Initial consumer research shows Ukrainian consumers responded well to Carling’s lager profile and were also attracted to its British appeal and strong association with football.

Olexandr Slobodyan, President of Obolon added, "We are pleased to partner with Molson Coors to bring Carling to Ukraine. We know consumers are looking for quality lagers with the cachet of an import. Carling makes an excellent entry into the market and we look forward to working with Molson Coors to bring this iconic brand to Ukrainian beer drinkers."

In the past year, Molson Coors has entered new global markets through a joint venture with Si'hai Brewery in China, and partnerships with Moscow Brewery in Russia, Mahou San Miguel in Spain and Viet Thai in Vietnam.