OREANDA-NEWS. August 24, 2012. As a result of acceptance of voluntary offer by shareholders, after transfer of a part of shares according to applications as of August 20, 2012, Carlsberg has increased its ownership of Baltika Breweries by 12,05% to 96,77%.

Until August 24, 2012 Registrar continues to transfer shares according to received applications, after that until September 8, 2012 the shares will be payed. When the procedure is completed, Carlsberg intends to launch a compulsory purchase of the remaining outstanding shares in Baltika Breweries.

100% ownership will allow Baltika to become more fully integrated into the Carlsberg Group which will allow it to benefit from a series of initiatives and opportunities. The efficiency of management will be improved, also providing Baltika with greater operational flexibility and efficiency. If Carlsberg is successful in achieving 100% ownership of Baltika, Carlsberg confirms its intention to invest more in Russia that will positively affect the number of workplaces and economic situation in regions of Baltika presence.  Carlsberg expects that Baltika will also be the hub for some of the regional functions of the Group. In addition, Baltika will have an opportunity to distribute its brands to other companies within Carlsberg Group and to use the distribution network of Carlsberg. Baltika is one of Carlsberg's leading international brands and Carlsberg is committed to invest further in the brand.

Baltika Breweries, OJSC is one of the largest manufacturers of consumer goods in Russia, and since 1996 it has been a leader in Russian beer market. Baltika is part of Carlsberg Group. The Baltika brand is the largest in Europe in terms of sales (Euromonitor). The company owns and runs factories in 10 Russian cities; one brewery in Azerbaijan; and a diversified brands’ portfolio. Baltika Breweries is a leading exporter of Russian beer. Its production is represented in more than 75 countries, accounting for 70 per cent of all Russian beer exports.