End of an Era: Antwerp’s Stadsbrouwerij Halts Local Beer production
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A tradition Ends: Duvel Moortgat Moves Production
After nearly two centuries, Antwerp’s iconic Stadsbrouwerij, owned by Duvel Moortgat, will cease brewing operations on Mechelsesteenweg. The brewery, a significant tourist draw, faces insurmountable logistical challenges due to a new construction project in its parking area. Ellen Aarts, a spokesperson for Duvel Moortgat, cited uncertainty
as the primary reason for the relocation.
Brewing Relocation: What Happens to Bolleke and Tripel d’Anvers?
Production of local favorites like Bolleke De koninck and Tripel d’Anvers will now shift to Duvel Moortgat’s main brewery in Puurs. The company has offered all eight brewers and other employees the prospect to transfer to the Puurs facility, with ongoing discussions to facilitate the transition. Aarts indicated that the company will evaluate the possibility of returning production to Antwerp in three years, but declined to comment further on the matter.
The Experience Center: will the Magic Remain?
Duvel Moortgat acquired the Koninck beers in 2010,transforming the city brewery into a popular experience center featuring restaurants,a cheese shop,and a café. The cessation of brewing on-site raises questions about the future appeal of the visitor experience. Currently, tourists pay €18 for a tour that highlights the brewing process. The challenge now is whether the experience can maintain its value without the active brewing component.
You get to see much more in the Tour than the brewing process. You are immersed in the history of the Stadsbrouwerij and its brands. So the location will certainly remain worth a visit.
Ellen Aarts, Duvel moortgat Spokesperson
Aarts maintains that the tour offers more than just a glimpse into brewing, emphasizing the ancient meaning of the Stadsbrouwerij and its brands. However, those interested in witnessing the production of beers like Tripel d’Anvers will now need to visit the Puurs brewery.
Market Trends and the Future of Belgian Beer
The Belgian beer market faces ongoing challenges.According to beer sommelier Sofie Vanrafelghem, a small brewery will die almost every week.
She notes that Bolleke, a spécial Belge, has seen a decline in popularity. while it remains a regional product and part of Belgium’s heritage, its future is uncertain.Vanrafelghem contrasts this with Tripel d’Anvers, which she believes is currently more appreciated by consumers. This trend reflects a broader shift in consumer preferences within the Belgian beer landscape.
Economic Factors: More Than meets the Eye?
While Duvel Moortgat insists that the decision to move production is not primarily economic, the move to Puurs allows for greater economies of scale. This could potentially offset losses from less popular brands. However, Aarts firmly denies that economic considerations drove the decision.
For more on the challenges facing the Belgian beer industry, see our related article: The bar remains increasingly dry: consumption and export Belgian beer.
