The brewery in Velké Březno in the Ústí nad Labem area is a historic brewery near Ústí nad Labem, owned by Heineken. The Heineken Česká republika division is the third-largest on the Czech market after Plzeňský Prazdroj and Pivovary Staropramen and, besides Velké Březno, also operates Starobrno and Královský pivovar Krušovice. [1] Březňák beer was brewed there.[1] In 2014 operation of the bottling line ended there and production of tank and keg beer remained. In 2017 Heineken opened a distribution centre on the grounds for shops and restaurants in northwestern Bohemia.[1]
In spring 2026 the company announced only a partial reduction of production volume without layoffs; about 25 people worked at the brewery at the time. According to the company, the change will now affect roughly 20 employees, for whom Heineken is looking for other job opportunities within the company. [1] On 26 October 2026 Heineken, according to the Czech News Agency, confirmed that the brewery will stop brewing beer and the Březňák brand will continue to be produced at other breweries of the group. The company justified the reduction of production as a gradual response to developments in the Czech beer market, in particular the continuing decline in beer consumption and rising energy costs. [1] Heineken said that Březňák will keep its original recipe, ingredients and the main elements of the traditional production method. [1] The distribution and logistics centre on the grounds will remain and the company plans to create a space presenting the history of the brand. Tours of the historic building ended in spring.[1][2]
Sources
- ČTK / České noviny — 26 October 2026
- Novinky.cz — 26 October 2026