Heineken sells Bralima stake in DR Congo to ELNA Holdings
Heineken exits direct ownership in DR Congo’s Bralima, transferring operations to ELNA Holdings while maintaining brand presence through licensing agreements amid broader strategic restructuring.
DRC – Heineken has sold its stake in Brasseries, Limonaderies et Malteries (Bralima), its long-standing brewing subsidiary in the Democratic Republic of Congo, marking the end of decades of direct ownership in the market.
The Dutch brewer confirmed it has transferred its shareholding in Bralima to Mauritius-based ELNA Holdings Ltd, which will assume control of the business, including production, distribution operations, and employees. Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.
The move follows earlier divestment activity in the country. In November, Heineken sold its brewery in Bukavu, eastern DR Congo, to Mauritius-based Synergy Ventures Holdings for a symbolic €1 (US$1.16).
The Bukavu facility had ceased operations after the M23 rebel group seized territory in January 2025, including the cities of Bukavu and Goma.
In its latest statement, Heineken did not reference the conflict but said the transaction aligns with its broader strategic priorities. The company noted the sale reflects its “active portfolio management and ongoing optimisation of its operating footprint across global markets.”
The brewer added that the decision is part of a “continued progression towards a more asset-light operating model in selected markets.”
Under the agreement, ELNA Holdings will take over Bralima’s full operations, including its manufacturing facilities, distribution network, and workforce of more than 700 employees.
The business operates breweries in Kinshasa, Kisangani, and Lubumbashi, and Heineken said operations at these sites are expected to continue following the transition.
Despite exiting direct ownership, Heineken will maintain a presence in the country through licensing arrangements. The company will continue to own its global and regional brands, including Heineken, Primus, Turbo King, Legend, and Mützig, which will remain available to consumers in the market.
Guillaume Duverdier, president of Heineken’s Africa and Middle East operations, said: “This step allows the business to continue under a locally anchored model, while ensuring that our brands remain available to consumers across the country. It also reflects our move towards a more asset-light approach in selected markets.”
Heineken’s shift toward a more asset-light structure has extended to other parts of its global operations. In February, CEO Dolf van den Brink announced plans to cut up to 6,000 jobs over the next two years as the company targets annual savings of up to €500 million (US$596.1 million).
More recently, the brewer confirmed changes to its supply model in Singapore, transitioning its Asia Pacific Breweries Singapore business to an import-led system, a move expected to affect approximately 130 jobs.
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