UK leading export market for Spain’s biggest brewer

The UK continues to be the leading export market for Spanish brewer Mahou San Miguel, which saw strong volume and value growth in 2017 despite a “challenging market environment”.

The brewer produces around 70% of all Spanish beers consumed globally and overall last year it saw its total revenue rise 3.4% to €1.2 billion.

In the UK the brewer works in partnership with Carlsberg and is particularly focused on the ‘premium’ on-trade in key cities such as London, Manchester, Edinburgh and Liverpool.

Sales volumes rose 9% in 2017 to surpass 1,100 hectolitres, which the company attributed to its focus on high-end retailers and venues and a number of targeted campaigns which have allowed it to flourish despite a “challenging market environment”.

Erik d’Auchamp, managing director of the International Business Unit, commented: “In 2017 we reached a new milestone as an independent and family owned company and we are incredibly pleased with the performance of our portfolio both in the UK and globally.

“We take a very targeted approach with our international strategy to ensure that our brands resonate and are relevant to consumers in our markets. This year we will continue to focus on bringing innovative and dynamic initiatives that will reinforce San Miguel’s premium positioning and strengthen Mahou and Alhambra in the UK.”