Heineken’s Grupa Żywiec unit in Poland is set to cease production at the Namysłów Brewery in the New Year.
Citing a “declining beer category” in the country along with “growing costs and taxes”, the subsidiary said this week that employees at the site, which is roughly 65km east of Wroclaw, will receive a “full severance package and additional support”, in accordance with their trade unions. Żywiec added that it is in “advanced discussion with potential investors” regarding a potential sale of the brewery’s assets.
The division will continue producing its brands at its three other breweries in the country. Information regarding which brands are currently produced at the Namysłów Brewery was not immediately available. Global Drinks Intel has also enquired about the number of employees affected by the move.
Żywiec acquired the site in 2018 for PLN500m (then-US$132m). The Namysłów Brewery is located in a castle with brewing traditions dating back to 1321.
Earlier this week, Heineken announced a “reshaping” of its head office in Amsterdam that will impact around 400 employees.
