Argentinean beer market dominated by Cerveza Quilmes

Consumption within the Argentinean beer market increased at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4% in 2011, a growth fuelled by the mainstream segment, which accounts for close to 86% of all beer consumption in Argentina.

An additional key factor driving growth within the Argentinean beer market was the warm temperatures during the summer period, which extended into autumn as well as spring, helped the sectors improvement.

Cervecería y Maltería Quilmes SAICAyG led sales with a 69% volume share, due to its longstanding presence, as well as its wide portfolio of products including brands such as Quilmes, Stella Artois, Brahma, Iguana, Patagonia and Liberty, which allows it to tailor its offering to all consumer segments and price points. Additionally, Quilmes distributes Pepsi products in Argentina and therefore enjoys economies of scale.

The company quickly started growing and in the 1920s it was already the most popular beer in Buenos Aires. Since then, it has become something of a national symbol, sponsoring the Argentina national football team, and the colours of its labels are Argentina's light blue and white.

The outlook for the Argentinean beer market will be dominated by uncertainty. Inflation rates continue to grow, and the government has recently limited all imports in order to stabilise the demand for the dollar.

It is expected that a reduced number of imported beers will enter the market and exported beers will drop in number as well.

For more information on the Argentinean beer market, see the latest research: Argentinean Beer Market Report

Follow us on Twitter @CandMResearch