By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
The Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC) has intensified efforts to expand the market reach of its brewery products, using the UEFA Champions League final watch party as a platform to promote Zeva Beer and other beverages produced by Food Basket Brewery.
Speaking at the event on Saturday, the Group Managing Director of BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, said the initiative formed part of the company’s market penetration strategy aimed at increasing public awareness and consumption of locally manufactured products.
Asemakaha disclosed that BIPC would extend its advertising campaign to the forthcoming FIFA World Cup, stressing the need for residents of Benue State to support locally made products to boost revenue generation and create jobs.
He explained that patronage of indigenous products remains critical to economic development, noting that citizens are encouraged to consume what they produce in order to strengthen local businesses and stimulate economic growth.
The BIPC boss urged consumers to choose Zeva Beer and Oyi Bitters whenever they take alcoholic beverages, adding that the brewery also produces malt drinks and is set to diversify into carbonated soft drinks to cater to non-alcohol consumers.
According to him, the ongoing installation of equipment at the brewery will significantly increase production capacity and support the economic transformation agenda of the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia.
Also speaking, the Plant Manager of Food Basket Brewery, Emmanuel Adoje, and the plant machinery installer, Engr. Luo, described the brewery’s products as quality beverages produced to meet international standards.
Furthermore, a Benue music icon and State Coordinator of the National Brand and Made in Nigeria Project, Hon. Orduen Andrew Ikon, popularly known as ODDYWOOD, who facilitated the watch party, said the event was designed to unite football enthusiasts while creating awareness for locally produced beverages.
He noted that the synergy between sports, entertainment and local industry would enhance the visibility and acceptance of Benue-made products among consumers.
