Sales rocketed more than 30 percent year-on-year, some 10 percent higher than the company's estimates. Last year, group officials had forecast a 2007 turnover 19 percent higher year-on-year, due to investments to consolidate its brands on the local market, and penetration onto new markets. According to data reported to the Finance Ministry, the company posted some €720 million worth of business in 2006, and expects some €900 million this year.
"Sales rose 30 percent year-on-year, in terms of value, for mineral water, and 25 percent for soft drinks," Victor Micula told Business Standard. He added that beer was subject to the highest rise, but did not provide additional figures. European Drinks is one of the major players on the local mineral water market, with an 18 percent market share The largest player is Romaqua, with 25 percent. Coca-Cola, producer of Dorna sparkling water ranks third, with 17 percent.
Last year, European Drinks bottled some 130 million liters of mineral water, while estimates for this year are 150 million liters. The company is using mineral water from two springs in the northern Bihor County. Its main brands are Izvorul Minunilor and Hera. The company also has an important share of the juice, nectar and carbonated drinks market. Its best-selling brand is Frutti Fresh. The group also produces Burger beer.
The Micula brothers have invested several hundred million euros in their production units in Bihor County, thus making their business one of the largest investments of this kind in Eastern Europe. The group is also operating in the food products, spirits and hotel sectors. The company has the largest portfolio of brands registered in Romania.
