Weaker demand slows Plzeňský Prazdroj's beer exports

Plzeňský Prazdroj exported less beer abroad last year. Weaker demand in key export markets such as Germany and Slovakia was the main factor weighing on exports.

Plzeňský Prazdroj exported 1.82 million hectolitres of beer last year. This represents a decline of 7.9 per cent compared with the previous year. Alongside unfavourable weather conditions, the global decline in beer consumption also affected exports, including in key markets such as Slovakia, Germany and Poland.

Despite the decline in sales, the brewery paid more tax than ever before. In total, the company contributed more than CZK 6.6 billion to the Czech state budget.

“On our key export markets, we are seeing a similar trend to that in the Czech Republic. Economic factors and changing consumer behaviour are influencing demand,” said Michal Mrowiec, Chief Executive Officer of Plzeňský Prazdroj.

Foto: Plzeňský Prazdroj

Sales in the company's particularly important markets of Slovakia, Germany, Poland and South Korea either declined or stagnated last year. In Slovakia, the brewery's largest export market, sales fell by almost six per cent. In Poland, the decline was four per cent, while in South Korea it reached 15 per cent.

Pilsner Urquell remains the leading export beer

Despite the generally weaker demand, Plzeňský Prazdroj remains the largest exporter of Czech beer. The brewery exports its products to around 50 countries, including more distant markets such as the Philippines, Singapore, Iceland and Mongolia. Pilsner Urquell lager once again remained its most important export product. The Czech beer was a success at the World Expo in Japan last year, helping to boost exports to the Land of the Rising Sun by 38%.

Foto: Plzeňský Prazdroj

Cans are becoming increasingly popular

Around 41 per cent of beer exports last year were shipped in cans. Returnable glass bottles accounted for 28 per cent, while single-use bottles for more distant markets represented seven per cent. Almost a quarter of the exported beer was delivered in kegs or tanks.

When combining can production for the domestic and export markets, aluminium cans are now on a par with glass bottles.

Revenue and profit decline

Last year, Plzeňský Prazdroj recorded a decline in sales not only abroad but also on the Czech market. Compared with 2024, domestic sales fell by two per cent.

The weaker demand also affected the company's financial results. Total revenue declined by around three per cent to CZK 22.4 billion. Profit after tax fell by one per cent to CZK 5.85 billion.

Foto: Plzeňský Prazdroj

Billions invested in breweries and the hospitality sector

In 2025, the company invested a total of CZK 1.66 billion in innovation, sustainable technologies and the modernisation of its breweries. Projects included a new fully automated warehouse in Plzeň.

A further CZK 420 million was invested in supporting pubs and restaurants. Among other things, the brewery provides businesses with draught beer systems, beer tanks, outdoor terraces and glassware. It also contributes to the renovation of façades and the modernisation of interiors. In addition, the company offers advice on areas such as digitalisation, beer quality management, menu design, staff training and advertising.