On 16 October 2025, the Latvian Competition Council (Konkurences padome, KP) decided to open an in-depth investigation into the merger between AS “Cēsu alus” and SIA “Valmiermuižas alus”. The initial case was launched on 17 September 2025.
Cēsu alus, a Latvian-registered joint stock company, is active in the production and distribution of a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Its portfolio includes well-known beer brands such as Brūža, Piebalgas, and Mītava.
Cēsu alus is part of the Finnish Olvi Group (OLVI Oyj), which markets a broad selection of products in Latvia. The group’s offerings include numerous beer brands (Cēsu Premium, Cēsu Retro, Cēsu Light, Brūža, Mītava, Lido, Corona, Leffe, Warsteiner, Radler, Beershake, Miezītis, Bocmanis, Zhygulevskoe, Latvijas Pilzenes, Piebalgas, Hoegaarden, Stella Artois), ciders (Fizz, Dārza sidrs, Piebalgas sidrs, Sherwood), and non-alcoholic beverages (Ulmaņlaiku kvass, Cēsu Premium non-alcoholic beer, Dārza cider and lemonade, ORN Craft, Limpanietis, Kanes, Limpo lemonade, Dynami:T energy drinks, RC Cola, Vitamin Performance sports drinks, Aura juices, Limpa juices, Lielbātas and Everest water, and Bērzūdens). The company also produces alcoholic cocktails and spirits, including Johan Freitag vodka and gin, le Coq products, and others.
Valmiermuižas alus, a limited liability company, is primarily engaged in the production and distribution of beer. Its portfolio includes the Valmiermuižas and Kokmuižas beer lines, as well as non-alcoholic beverages (Gardu muti sparkling drinks, kombucha), Tālavas cider, and ŌBDO Four ready-to-drink cocktails and gin.
Both merging parties are active in the production and wholesale of beer, non-alcoholic carbonated beverages, and fermented drinks, including cider, in the Latvian market.
Given the scope of activities and the potential overlap in several beverage segments, the Competition Council decided to conduct an in-depth assessment of the proposed merger in accordance with Section 16(1) of the Competition Law. The extended investigation aims to evaluate more precisely the merger’s potential impact on competition in Latvia.
The Competition Council has invited stakeholders—particularly participants in the HoReCa (hotel, restaurant, and catering) sector and other interested parties—to share their views on the potential effects of the merger on competition.
