German beer and soft-drinks producer Oettinger has announced its acquisition of domestic beer brand Karmeliter, stepping in to continue its production and sales.
With origins tracing back to a Middle Ages monastery, Karmeliter faced closure at the end of June due to a lack of succession. Oettinger’s CEO, Stefan Blaschak, emphasized the significance of preserving Karmeliter’s legacy, citing its cultural and historical value to German brewing.
Blaschak highlighted the strategic fit of Karmeliter within Oettinger’s portfolio, noting the brewery’s commitment to tradition and quality over its nearly 300-year history.
Despite the ongoing decline in the German beer market, Blaschak expressed confidence in Karmeliter’s potential to rejuvenate classic beer segments. The company plans to focus on expanding Karmeliter’s flagship Helles Lager while exploring opportunities to continue other monastery beer varieties.
In addition to beer, Oettinger boasts a diverse range of soft drinks, including ice teas, spritzers, and lemonades, along with ‘alcohol-free’ beer variants. Recent acquisitions, such as JoyBräu, underscore Oettinger’s commitment to diversifying its product offerings.
Looking ahead, Oettinger aims to bolster its presence outside the beer market, targeting 40% of sales from non-beer segments by 2026. The company’s strategic realignment includes the launch of an “innovation brand” line, Oe, to cater to functional drink markets domestically and internationally.
Blaschak’s extensive experience in the beverage industry, including roles at Coca-Cola and Berentzen Group, positions him well to lead Oettinger through its ambitious growth initiatives. His appointment as CEO signals a focused drive towards innovation and expansion in the evolving beverage landscape.
