The company HEINEKEN Croatia, one of the leaders of the domestic brewing industry, has ceremoniously marked the completion of the key phase of its latest investment cycle, worth an impressive 25 million euros. In the heart of brewing tradition, at the plants in Karlovac, the most modern can filling line has been put into trial operation, a project that represents a technological and strategic step forward for the company and the entire Croatian economy. This event, which gathered high representatives of the Government of the Republic of Croatia, local and regional authorities, and numerous business partners, symbolizes a new era in beer production and confirms Croatia's status as an attractive destination for large industrial investments.

A technological leap for the future of production

The new can filling line is not just a mere expansion of capacity; it is the heart of the technological modernization of the Karlovac brewery. With an impressive capacity of 25,000 cans per hour, this line allows for the filling of up to 1,500 hectoliters of beer during a single shift. Such efficiency directly translates into significantly greater production flexibility, enabling HEINEKEN Croatia to respond more quickly and agilely to dynamic market changes and the ever-increasing consumer demand for practical and modern packaging. The demand for cans is experiencing constant growth, driven by changes in consumer lifestyles who value convenience, ease of transport, and faster cooling, making the can an ideal choice for various occasions. In addition, aluminum packaging offers one hundred percent protection from light and oxygen, thereby preserving the freshness and original taste of the beer. It is also important to emphasize the ecological aspect, as aluminum is a material that can be recycled countless times with minimal loss of quality, which fits perfectly into global sustainability strategies.

Comprehensive modernization of the brewery as a foundation for growth

The installation of the new can line is the largest, but not the only, component of the comprehensive investment cycle. HEINEKEN Croatia has carried out a thorough modernization of the entire production and logistics system in Karlovac. New horizontal and vertical beer tanks have been installed, increasing the total storage capacity of local production by a significant 36 percent. This move ensures self-sufficiency and reduces dependence on other breweries within the group. Furthermore, a new logistics platform covering an impressive 2,600 square meters has been built, thereby optimizing the flow of raw materials and finished products and significantly improving internal logistics. The cycle was completed with the installation of new, more energy-efficient air compressors that contribute to the optimization of production processes and the reduction of operating costs. In parallel with these capital projects, an internal restructuring of the brewery was carried out. Old and dilapidated buildings were removed, freeing up areas for the expansion of logistics zones, but also for the creation of new green spaces within the factory grounds, confirming the company's commitment not only to industrial progress but also to creating a more pleasant working environment and preserving the environment.

Strategic partnership and stimulus for economic development

The realization of such a large project was also possible thanks to the support of the Government of the Republic of Croatia, which supported the investment through mechanisms provided by the Investment Promotion Act. This legislative framework is a key tool for attracting and retaining investments that bring high added value, technological modernization, and new jobs. Goran Romek, State Secretary at the Ministry of Economy and envoy of the Prime Minister, emphasized at the ceremony that this investment represents a concrete and significant contribution to strengthening the domestic industrial base. He pointed out that technological modernization, increased energy efficiency, and, most importantly, the creation of new jobs, confirm Croatia's role as a reliable and competitive destination for modern and sustainable business. The creation of a total of 15 new, highly specialized jobs directly related to the operation of the new line is a clear indicator of the positive impact of the investment on the local labor market and its contribution to reducing unemployment in the region.

Karlovac as the heart of brewing and innovation

The brewery in Karlovac has a long and rich history dating back to 1854, and this investment further strengthens its status as a strategic production center for HEINEKEN Croatia. Maud Meijboom-van Wel, the company's CEO, expressed immense pride in this achievement, stressing that the new line represents a key step in the long-term strategy for growth and development in Croatia. "We are proud that with this investment, we are further strengthening local production and that we are able to adequately respond to the constantly and rapidly changing needs of the market," she said, adding that the project also brings new value to the local community through new employment and the application of sustainable development principles. Her words confirm that Karlovac has been and remains the heart of production, and its significance only grows with this investment. Ivana Fočić, the Deputy Mayor of Karlovac, also did not hide her satisfaction, pointing out that the city is proud to be home to a company that is developing, strengthening the economy, and at the same time preserving the long local tradition of brewing, of which Karlovačko beer is an indispensable symbol. "Investments like this are a pledge for the creation of quality jobs and ensuring a better standard of living for our fellow citizens," she concluded.

The importance of the event was also confirmed by the presence of numerous distinguished guests, including Her Excellency Charlotte van Baak, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Croatia, and Vesna Hajsan Dolinar, Deputy Prefect of Karlovac County, which further testifies to the excellent cooperation at the international, national, and local levels. After the official part of the program, all guests had the opportunity, with the expert guidance of engineers and technologists, to tour the newly installed line and see firsthand the technological superiority and complexity of the plant that will in the future fill millions of cans of favorite beer brands. This tour symbolically marked the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the Karlovac brewery.