First quarter results reveal outstanding performance by beer-makers

Poland's breweries are reporting significant increases in sales revenues in the first quarter, compared to the same period of last year. During the first three months of 2001, the operating profit of Zywiec was in excess of zl.36.8 million, a 98% rise from a year ago, based on sales revenue of almost zl.201 million. Meanwhile, Okocim brewery is reporting an increase of over 25% in its sales revenue, and in the case of Strzelec the rise is "only" 22.5%, compared to the first quarter of 2000. Analysts say the success of beer sales is due mainly to the warm winter and higher demand among wholesalers, who purchased more local beer following the February rise in excise duties. Even as they celebrate their success, the breweries are looking forward to the spring and summer, which as usual are expected to be the best period for beer sales. (Parkiet, 5-7 May, p. 3) M.S.-C.