The current market and major players in the Kenyan wine and spirits industry.

The Kenyan wine and spirits industry is an ever-evolving market that has experienced significant growth in recent years. In this article, we will take a closer look at the current state of the industry and the major players who are driving its growth.

Current Market Overview

The Kenyan alcoholic drinks market is a significant contributor to the country's economy, with a value of Ksh 306.5 billion ($3 billion) in 2020, according to a report by Euromonitor International. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% between 2021 and 2025, driven by several factors, including rising disposable incomes, changing lifestyles, and a growing middle class.

Wine Sales

Wine consumption in Kenya has been growing steadily, with local consumption estimated to be around 2 million liters per year. This is a significant increase from a few years ago, when wine consumption in Kenya was relatively low. The majority of wine consumed in Kenya is still imported, with South Africa, Italy, and France being the top suppliers.

The growing wine culture in Kenya has resulted in a proliferation of wine bars and restaurants that cater to a diverse range of consumers. Wine bars such as Artcaffe, Wines of the World, and Tin Roof Café offer a wide range of wines, including local and imported varieties. Similarly, wine festivals, such as the Nairobi Wine Week and the Mount Kenya Wine Festival, have become increasingly popular among wine lovers in the country.

Spirits Sales

The spirits market in Kenya is also experiencing growth, with sales of whisky, gin, and vodka increasing in recent years. International brands such as Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Bacardi continue to dominate the market, but local distilleries are gaining traction, thanks to their commitment to sustainability, local sourcing, and unique flavors.

In Kenya, the most popular spirits are vodka, whisky, and gin. Vodka is the most popular spirit, accounting for about 50% of total spirits sales in the country. Whisky and gin follow closely behind, with Johnnie Walker, Jameson, and Black & White being the most popular whisky brands, while Gordon's and Tanqueray are the most popular gin brands.

Major Players in the Kenyan Wine and Spirits Industry

KWAL

Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) is one of the oldest and most established players in the Kenyan wine and spirits industry. Founded in 1969, KWAL was initially a state-owned company but was privatized in the early 2000s. KWAL produces a range of spirits, including brandy, gin, and vodka, as well as wine under its KWAL Select brand.

KWAL has been working to grow its market share in Kenya's spirits industry. In 2019, the company launched its newest product, a gin named 'Kibao' (meaning 'strong' in Swahili) in response to growing demand for gin in the Kenyan market. The gin is made with a blend of juniper berries, coriander, and other botanicals, and is available in 250ml and 750ml bottles.

East African Breweries Limited (EABL)

East African Breweries Limited (EABL) is one of the largest alcoholic beverage companies in Kenya and is part of the multinational Diageo group. EABL produces a range of spirits, including Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Baileys, as well as beer and cider.

EABL has been working to expand its product range in Kenya's spirits market, with a focus on meeting changing consumer preferences. In 2020, the company launched its new whisky brand, 'Game of Thrones Single Malt Scotch Whisky', which was inspired by the popular TV show. The new whisky is a limited edition release and is available in selected markets across East Africa.

In addition, EABL has been investing heavily in sustainability initiatives and community development projects. The company has implemented a number of programs to support smallholder farmers and reduce the environmental impact of its operations.

UDV Kenya

UDV Kenya is a subsidiary of Diageo, one of the world's largest spirits producers. UDV Kenya produces a range of spirits, including Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Baileys, as well as beer and cider.

The company has been working to increase its market share in Kenya's spirits industry by launching new products that cater to changing consumer preferences. In 2018, UDV Kenya introduced 'Captain Morgan Gold', a premium spiced rum that has been specifically developed for the Kenyan market. The new product has been well received by consumers and has helped to strengthen the company's position in the local market.

Africa Spirits Limited

Africa Spirits Limited is a locally owned distillery that produces a range of spirits, including vodka, gin, and brandy. The company has been growing rapidly in recent years, thanks to its commitment to sustainability and local sourcing.

Africa Spirits Limited is known for its flagship product, 'Blue Moon Vodka', which is made from locally sourced grains and is available in several different flavors. The company has also recently launched 'Blue Moon Gin', which has become a popular choice among consumers in Kenya's growing gin market.

In addition to its commitment to sustainability, Africa Spirits Limited is also known for its social impact initiatives. The company has implemented a number of programs to support education and health care in local communities, and is committed to promoting responsible drinking practices.

Conclusion

The Kenyan wine and spirits industry is a rapidly growing market that is driven by changing consumer preferences, rising disposable incomes, and a growing middle class. While international brands continue to dominate the market, local players are also gaining traction thanks to their commitment to sustainability, local sourcing, and unique flavors.

As the industry continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more innovation and competition among major players. For consumers, this means a wider range of options to choose from, with new and exciting products hitting the shelves on a regular basis. Overall, the future of the Kenyan wine and spirits industry looks bright, and it will be interesting to see how the market continues to grow and evolve in the years to come.