The Czech Republic: Traditional Ostravar brewery facing closure

After decades of beer production, the traditional Ostravar brewery in Ostrava is facing closure. Production is to be gradually phased out over the course of next year. However, the well-known beer brand will remain on the market and will be produced at the Staropramen brewery in Prague-Smíchov in future, the Prague Daily News reported on October 9.

The Czech brewing group Pivovary Staropramen has announced that it will completely cease beer production at its Ostrava site next year. The reasons behind the decision are the long-term decline in beer consumption, rising production costs and the need to adjust existing brewing capacities.

According to the company, the Czech brewing industry has been under economic pressure for years. In addition to declining beer consumption, higher costs for energy, packaging materials and transport are placing a particular burden on production.

By relocating production to Prague, the brewing group aims to make more efficient use of its existing production capacities and remain competitive in the long term.

“This is one of the most difficult decisions we have had to make in recent years,” said Martin Čermák, Country Lead for the Czech Republic and Slovakia at Pivovary Staropramen. Ostravar is far more than just a brewery. Over generations, the company has helped shape the city of Ostrava and played an important role for its employees and the local community. The decision was only taken after a comprehensive analysis of economic developments and production costs.

Despite the closure of the production site, the brewery's most important beer brands, including Ostravar, Mustang and Černá Barbora, will remain on the market. Their production will gradually be transferred to the Staropramen brewery in Prague's Smíchov district. To ensure that the taste and quality of the beers remain unchanged, a former Ostravar brewmaster, who played a key role in developing important recipes, will oversee the production process.

The company also intends to maintain its presence in the Moravian-Silesian Region. Existing storage and distribution capacities, as well as the regional sales team, will remain active. Staropramen aims to ensure continued supplies to the hospitality and retail sectors and maintain relationships with business partners.

The company has announced a support programme for employees affected by the closure. This includes individual counselling, assistance in finding new jobs and psychological support where needed. The company also intends to work with the regional employment authorities and other partners to help affected employees find new career opportunities.

09 October, 2026