Kofola, a Czech soft drinks manufacturer, is considering producing beer and is interested in purchasing Moravian breweries Zubr, Holba, and Litovel. Negotiations are underway regarding acquiring a controlling stake in Pivovary CZ Group, which owns the three breweries.
This is not the first time that Kofola has shown an interest in acquiring breweries. The company previously expressed interest in purchasing Pivovary Lobkowicz, which consists of seven regional breweries. However, the Lobkowicz breweries were sold to a Chinese investor eight years ago.
Kofola’s interest in brewing beer comes as the company seeks to diversify its business beyond soft drinks. The company has faced increasing competition from other soft drinks manufacturers and has seen a decline in its market share. By entering the beer market, Kofola hopes to capitalize on the growing popularity of craft beers in the Czech Republic.
The purchase of Pivovary CZ Group would give Kofola access to the three breweries’ production facilities and distribution networks. However, the negotiations are still in the early stages, and it is not clear whether the deal will be completed.