Budějovický Budvar can look back on a record year – despite declining beer consumption at home and abroad. Thanks to strong exports, innovative partnerships and a clear brand strategy, the Budweis-based brewery recorded an extremely successful financial year.
The Czech brewery Budějovický Budvar can look back on an exceptionally successful financial year in 2024. With a historic high of 1.928 million hectolitres, the brewery surpassed its previous production record. The long-established company also grew strongly in economic terms: sales from products and services rose to 3.66 billion crowns, while pre-tax profit climbed by a whopping 17.6 per cent to 466.2 million crowns.
“The past year was remarkable in terms of stability. There were no significant losses,” says Petr Dvořák, director of Budějovický Budvar. “We withdrew from the Russian market some time ago but were able to fully compensate for this decline with new sales markets.”
Exports were once again particularly strong. With 1.39 million hectolitres, Budvar was again the most exported Czech beer brand in 2024 – with a growing presence in over 70 countries worldwide. The strongest foreign markets remained Germany, Poland, Slovakia, Austria and Great Britain. However, Budvar also successfully established itself in other regions. Domestically, the company recorded growth of 1.7 per cent compared to the previous year.
“Our global marketing strategy with a uniform visual identity and clear brand profile is bearing fruit. People are increasingly interested in authentic products – and our lager delivers exactly that in the highest quality,” explains Dvořák.
Another success factor was the collaboration with Czech microbreweries. As part of this initiative, four limited-edition special beers were created in cooperation with Zlatá Kráva, Dva Kohouti, Cobolis and Lucky Bastard. “For us, it’s not about quantity or direct economic gain, but about professional exchange and nurturing Czech beer culture, to which we feel a strong connection,” Dvořák continues.
In addition to record sales, Budějovický Budvar also invested in its future. The capacity of the brewhouse has been expanded to 2.2 million hectolitres, and the commissioning of its own photovoltaic system is planned for 2025. In addition, the ‘Open and Green Brewery’ project, which combines efficient production with tourist appeal, is being further developed. At its heart is a new visitor centre, which is expected to welcome up to 200,000 guests annually in the future.
