During the Belgian Economic Mission to California, Brasserie de l’Abbaye du Val-Dieu showed how Belgian exports can grow while staying deeply rooted at home. With nine new contracts in San Francisco and Los Angeles, the brewery aims to double its sales in the United States. At the same time, it is investing €14 million in modern production facilities in Belgium. Small country, great beer!
California love for Belgian beers
Today, the brewery exports to 26 countries and is setting its sights firmly on the US market — the most important long-distance export destination for the Belgian food and drinks industry. Belgian food and drinks, known for their quality, innovation and great taste, continue to win over more and more consumers there.
After strong results in Florida, where around 700 hectolitres of Val-Dieu beer are sold each year, the brewery is now moving towards the American West Coast. There, Val-Dieu’s abbey beers — and especially Blanche de Liège Rosée — are striking a chord. This light, fruity beer with a subtle hint of raspberry blends Belgian craftsmanship with a touch of Liège spirit.
“With our Blanche de Liège Rosée, we are targeting a flavour profile that appeals to American consumers: light, fruity and just a little different. It captures Belgian craftsmanship with a Californian breeze. It’s la vie en rosée on the US West Coast,” says Sales Director Lionel Delbart.
The Belgian Economic Mission also came at the right moment. A new agreement between the EU and the US brings renewed stability and perspective for companies after months of uncertainty.
The world tastes Herve
With its international growth plans, Val-Dieu aims to double both turnover and volume — while remaining firmly anchored in Belgium. Near Verviers, the brewery invested around €12 million in a renewed brewing site and warehouse, followed by an additional €2 million for ten new fermentation tanks.
Val-Dieu still brews within the walls of its historic abbey, a strong asset that showcases the Belgian abbey tradition on the global stage. Despite import duties of 15%, exports to the United States continue to grow.
“Our roots are here, in the Val-Dieu abbey. We are growing internationally, but our feet remain firmly on Belgian soil,” says Lionel Delbart. In this way, the Belgian brewery continues to build a sustainable future — locally rooted, with an open view of the world. Cheers!