In recent years, the beer market in Hong Kong has experienced significant growth as demand for premium hops continues to rise. Despite the rosy outlook, competition is intense due to changing customer preferences, the rise of microbreweries and the popularity of beer festivals.
Headquartered in Hong Kong since 2019, Budweiser APAC has a strong presence in major markets such as China, South Korea, India and Vietnam, with 47 breweries across the region. Carrying over 50 popular brands including Budweiser, Hoegaarden and Harbin, the Asia-Pacific’s leading beer brewer offers an array of quality options that caters to every taste and preference.
To stay ahead in the digital era, Budweiser APAC launched BEES, an integrated business-to-business digital sales platform, in 2021 for better operational efficiency and to improve business performance. Covering a distribution network of over 230 cities around the world, BEES offers retail customers a seamless order and delivery experience. It has been expanding rapidly and now accounts for a significant portion of the company’s revenue.
Amid global economic headwinds, Budweiser APAC remains focused on growth and premiumization through a diversified portfolio of premium and super premium brands such as Stella Artois and Corona as key differentiators in the market.
“We saw the premiumization trend continue its positive trajectory across the market, which shows beer remains a very resilient category and an accessible luxury,” said Jan Craps, CEO and Co-Chair of Budweiser APAC.
As a customer-centric business, the company is dedicated to thriving with the communities in which it operates. Creating meaningful brand experiences is key to realizing the vision. In 2019, Budweiser APAC launched the “Corona Extra Lime” program in Anyue, Sichuan, in response to the provincial government’s call for rural revitalization.
By providing end-to-end support to local farmers at every stage – from seed selection and harvest to distribution – the business model has had a positive impact on both the local community and the company. By end 2023, the program offered a national supply of Anyue limes, which boosted impoverished farmers’ income while ensuring a stable supply of top-quality limes to enhance the drinking experience with Corona.
Beyond business, Budweiser APAC is also a keen advocate for environmental sustainability. Working towards net-zero emissions by 2040, the company has shown its commitment by taking pioneering steps in 2021. These included realizing carbon neutrality in its Wuhan brewery, which showcased Budweiser APAC’s leadership in environmental management and protection. “We are not just meeting but also leading consumer expectations on environmental responsibility,” said Craps.
Looking ahead, Budweiser APAC will continue to expand its brand portfolio and develop strategic partnerships to maintain its leading position in the regional premium beer industry. One example is the introduction of award-winning craft beer brands, such as Goose Island and BrewDog, to beer lovers in China, where economic growth coupled with the burgeoning middle class’s appetite for premium and super-premium brews paint a positive outlook for the market.
“Being a member of HKGCC has helped expand our network and build ties with the business community in Hong Kong and beyond.” Craps explained. “Through more informed dialogues with fellow members, we can better navigate the rapidly changing market and identify growth opportunities.”
Budweiser Brewing Co APAC Ltd
HKGCC Membership No. :HKB0618
Established :2019
Website :www.budweiserapac.com