L
ion Brewery (Ceylon) PLC has strategically withdrawn from 18 international markets as part of its enhanced business strategy aimed at boosting profitability and driving growth.
The company streamlined its market presence from 35 to 17 countries, a move designed to concentrate resources and efforts on key markets. By optimizing its product mix and focusing on high-potential regions, Lion Brewery aims to maximize both margin and volume.
“We consolidated our resources and intensified our focus on key growth markets, leading us to exit nearly 20 markets. Despite these strategic withdrawals, our international business recorded a remarkable 20 percent growth during the year,” stated D.A. Cabraal, Chairman of Lion Brewery’s Board of Directors.
R.H. Meewakkala, Director/Chief Executive Officer of Lion Brewery (Ceylon) PLC, highlighted that this strategic realignment enables the company to allocate resources more effectively across its core geographies in Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. “Our approach now prioritizes proactive consumer insights and tailored portfolio strategies to drive deeper market penetration,” he added.
In Africa, Lion Brewery has achieved notable success in countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, and Rwanda. Meanwhile, in the Maldives, Lion Lager has maintained its leadership position, solidifying its brand presence and popularity among consumers.
“The Maldives market presents significant growth opportunities, particularly with the recovery of tourism post-COVID-19. Our long-term strategies aim to reinforce our market leadership in this dynamic and expanding market,” the company stated.
The UAE remains another pivotal market for Lion Brewery, where it continues to assert a strong market position amidst stiff competition.
Previously, Lion Brewery’s global footprint included markets in North America (US and Canada), Japan, Singapore, the UK, Australia, and Fiji. However, the recent strategic focus on key markets aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainable growth and market leadership in targeted regions.
