Samoa Breweries Ltd (SBL) will begin the planned shut down of its brewing facilities end of this month marking the closing of an era and the start of a new one.  

The SBL management on Friday issued a media release that advised of the shutting down of the plant on 31 October 2022. 

They said the production of Vailima will temporarily move offshore while local business couple Charlie Va’ai and Beatrice Ott prepare to set up their operations in Samoa.

The brewery is currently producing at maximum capacity to supply Samoa with Vailima for the months of October and November this year. 

While the first shipment of the temporarily imported Vailima will arrive in December. Vailima draught beer will continue to be available until November 2022.

The collection and return of Vailima beer bottles will continue until 2023 to ensure all customers are able to return their empty bottles. It is essential Samoa Breweries Limited receive back as many bottles as possible to keep up with demand up until closure, the company said in its media release.

 Moira Simi, Country Manager of Samoa Breweries Ltd, said their planned closure at the end of this month will directly affect 24 staff members.

“Since the announcement of the closure in June, we have been working hard to look after our people and minimise supply distribution of Vailima," said Ms. Simi. 

“The planned closure will impact 34 of our people, down from the initial 50 as we managed to secure roles and retain more staff. 

"The affected employees have been offered generous redundancy packages to thank and recognise their incredible service over the years.”

Mike Spencer, the General Manager of Paradise Beverages Limited which is the majority shareholder of the SBL, said they had always intended for production to remain in Samoa.

"It's always been our strong preference to keep the production of Vailima in Samoa," said Mr. Spencer. 

"We are thrilled the brewing of the iconic Vailima brand would remain in Samoa and be looked after by people who are incredibly passionate about Vailima. 

"We know the brand will be in safe hands and we’re exploring further options to provide an even stronger connection between Mr Va’ai, Ms Ott and the Vailima brand."

 SBL will continue to sell and distribute Vailima alongside Samoa’s favourite non-alcoholic beverages while the brewing of Vailima will be done locally by Mr Va’ai and Ms Ott once their operation in Samoa is setup. SBL are continuing to explore options on how to create a stronger connection between its local partners and the Vailima brand.