E-Malt.com News article: USA: Baltika Beer showcased at The Bar Show 2007 in New York City

Baltika Breweries, the leading producer of beer in Russia, was the only Russian company showcasing its products at The Bar Show – 2007 in New York City, according to Business Wire, June 20. At the show Baltika presented its brands, including Baltika No. 9 Krepkoe, a strong beer, which has become popular in the US.

As American consumers are becoming more interested in specialty beers, mostly imported from Europe, Baltika sees a unique opportunity to lay claim to the emerging market. “The appeal of Baltika’s line of beers and its most distinguishing property is the combination of strength and light taste,” explains Dmitry Kistev, Baltika’s Director of Exports. “Where a strong Belgian lager is heavy, Baltika’s No. 9, while retaining the same properties, is easier to drink,” adds Kistev.

“US, being the second largest beer market in the world, is strategically important to Baltika,” says Dmitry Kistev. The company plans to reach this market through taste trials, rather than investing in major advertising campaigns. The experience has shown that Baltika’s presence at shows, such as The Bar Show 2007, has created more interest in Baltika’s beers and an opportunity for American consumers to get to know the brand and its unique line of beers.

Baltika Breweries is the leader of the Russian brewing market and has been named Best Russian Exporter by the Ministry of Economic Development of Russian Federation for five straight years. The company products are exported to 42 countries worldwide. The total amount of sales outside of Russia in 2006, including licensed production amounted to 1.8 million hl.

The share of the company products exceeds 70% of all Russian export of beer. At present every eighth bottle of Baltika is sold abroad.


22 June, 2007