ZB slashes prices of  top brands

Thu, 02 Mar 2017 14:26:12 +0000

ZAMBIAN Breweries has reduced the price of Mosi and Castle lager amid growing confidence in the country’s economic stability.

The recommended retail price of a 375ml bottle of both lagers is now K7, reduced from K7.50.

Zambian Breweries country director Annabelle Degroot said the cut in price of the nation’s favorite beers was a response to the improved inflation rate and several months of a stable exchange rate.

Ms Degroot explained that when beer prices droped, overall alcohol consumption did not increase but rather consumers tended to move away from cheaper higher alcohol options with an average ABV (alcohol by volume) of 43 percent, back into clear beer with an average ABV of 4.5 percent.

“In response to Government’s efforts to maintain a stable business environment, we are committed to retaining the affordability of our products. Zambian Breweries expects the price reduction to encourage drinkers to move away from cheap illegally brewed high-alcohol beverages that pose a danger to public safety as well as denying Government tax revenue,’’ said Ms Degroot.

Ms Degroot said this was an important driver of responsible alcohol consumption and Government revenue collection and commended Government for implementing measures to allow this level of stability.

“The decision is also aimed at stimulating volume growth, tax revenue growth and its associated positive impact on investment, agriculture and employment,’’ she said.