B&F announces partnership with Ukraine’s largest brewery
Obolon went down in history when it became the first private company in independent Ukraine in receiving a Privatisation Certificate from the State Property Fund of Ukraine ‘No 1’.
Following this, the plant’s construction aimed to provide the country with high-quality beer to meet world standards. The main criterion was the source of artesian water, the main component that determines beer’s taste. Czech experts, who were world-famous masters of brewing, determined where construction of the new brewery should take place. The main plant was established in Kyiv.
And so Obolon became the nation’s household beer, synonymous with freedom and independence. Today, the brewery is one of the largest in Europe and the largest domestic beverage company in Ukraine, producing beer, soft drinks and low-alcohol beverages, minerals and drinking water.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine forced the company to pivot and find an opportunity to continue its activities and despite the extremely difficult wartime work conditions, Obolon tries to support its employees by providing them jobs and salaries as well as supporting the military defending Ukraine – and ultimately other European countries – at the cost of their own lives.
These days the sources of artesian water available to Obolon are used for water production for free distribution to the military and people in war-torn regions of Ukraine too.
Obolon corporate enterprises have already provided more than three million litres of this water free-of-charge. Additional funds are needed to be able to continue to provide this assistance and with this aim Obolon has launched a project to allow people around the world to support its mission.
To provide an additional four million litres of water Obolon aims to raise $1 million through just one bottle of beer – the last bottle of Obolon brewed in a peaceful Ukraine.
The ‘Last Obolon’ will be sold-off at a Christie’s auction in New York City where bidding starts at $1 million.
The Last Obolon brewed in peacetime holds immeasurable symbolic value, especially to those who’ve a personal connection to Ukraine. But more than that, it offers a way to donate money, help millions of Ukrainians in need of water and keep this war in the global spotlight. Many of the world’s wealthiest people, celebrities, companies and philanthropists have donated amounts far exceeding $1m to Ukraine and are still looking for ways to keep supporting the stricken nation. The Last Obolon helps them do just that.
Ireland’s leading independent drinks distributor Barry & Fitzwilliam is therefore proud to announce its partnership with Obolon having announced its partnership on the anniversary of Ukranian Independence Day, August the 24th.
“We’re very proud to be associated with this venture and we look forward to a successful long-term relationship with Obolon,” said Michael Barry, Managing Director of Barry & Fitzwilliam, “We’re delighted to be able to help the Ukrainian community indirectly.”
Expecting its first consignment of Obolon next month B&F will make a donation to Obolon’s mission for every bottle sold in Ireland.