Plzeňský Prazdroj Reviews its Organisational Structure

“It is impossible not to be affected by the economic crisis either on the domestic or export markets. Although the review had been planned long before the crisis began to show on the Czech market, the economic uncertainty has amplified the sense of urgency. In no way do we take this matter lightly. We are managing the retrenchment process as fairly and humanely as possible and have worked closely with the Trade Unions and the Labour Office to ensure we handled the processes correctly.” says Mike Short, Plzeňský Prazdroj's Managing Director.

Outcomes of the review affect the employees in the three breweries of Plzeňský Prazdroj, as well as also staff at the Company's thirteen depots and the Prague office.

The new organizational processes and structures were developed internally with minimum recourse to external consultants.  Such external consultancy services were used only for review to ensure fairness and legality. Trade Unions and the Labour Office were duly notified.

For newly created positions the employees from redundant positions have been considered as a priority. Those who will not have found new roles in our Company or in SABMiller, will receive a competitive redundancy package (a severance payment will be equivalent to at least five monthly average incomes and additional pay for length of service where applicable).

The conditions offered are well above the requirements stipulated by the Labour Code. Apart from this financial support, Prazdroj will provide support and advice with outplacement of affected employees.

Notes for editors:

• With total sales of over 10.7 million hectolitres in the calendar year 2008 (including licensed production abroad) and exports to more than 50 countries around the world, Plzensky Prazdroj, a. s., is a major beer producer in the region and the largest exporter of Czech beer.
• Plzensky Prazdroj, a. s. is a member of the global group SABMiller plc. Pilsner Urquell is the international flagship of the SABMiller brand portfolio.
• SABMiller plc is one of the world’s largest brewers, with brewing interests or distribution agreements in over 60 countries across six continents. The SABMiller brand portfolio consists of international brands such as Miller Genuine Draft, Peroni Nastro Azzurro and Pilsner Urquell, as well as almost 200 other successful regional and national brands.

Contact:
Jiri Marecek
Manager external communication
Plzensky Prazdroj
+420 724 617 219

Pilsen