Royal Swinkels opens production plant for Bavaria Smalt in Kenya 

KENYA – Dutch beverage company Royal Swinkels has officially launched a production facility in Nairobi, Kenya, to manufacture its malt-based carbonated soft drink, Bavaria Smalt.  

The plant has a daily operational capacity of producing around 1,500 cases, equivalent to 36,000 bottles. 

The amount of the investment was not disclosed. 

Philip Njoroge, Royal Swinkels’ Regional Manager for East Africa, stated that this move is part of the company’s broader strategy to expand its presence in the region while fostering job creation and supporting the local economy through sustainable production. 

“We are excited to bring Bavaria Smalt to Kenya, a product that aligns with the health-conscious preferences of today’s consumers,” Njoroge said. 

Bavaria Smalt is now available in supermarkets and retail outlets across Kenya, priced at KES130 (US$1.01) for a 330-ml can and KES170 (US$1.32) for a 500-ml bottle.  

Bavaria Smalt, earlier named Bavaria Malt was relaunched in the Middle East and Africa in July 2024, featuring new packaging formats, including sleek cans and premium green glass bottles. 

To further boost the drink’s growth in Africa, the company appointed Kenyan marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge as its brand ambassador. 

Royal Swinkels achieved a turnover growth of 9 percent in 2023, rising from US$1.1 billion in 2022 to US$1.24 billion.  

The EBITDA rose by 16 percent, from US$119.44 million in 2022 to US$139.16 million in 2023.  

As a result of turnover growth and cost savings, the family business further improved its financial targets and, despite the market challenges, was able to invest in the future. 

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