The Carlsberg story
J.C. Jacobsen founded the Carlsberg brewery in Copenhagen in 1847 and named it after his son Carl. He set up the Carlsberg Laboratory in 1875, where Emil Christian Hansen isolated a pure lager yeast in 1883. Jacobsen made the yeast freely available, which changed brewing worldwide.
What makes Carlsberg powerful
Carlsberg's scientific heritage, its Danish identity and its foundation ownership set it apart in beer. Its slogan "Probably the best beer in the world" is one of the best-known in advertising. The group also owns Tuborg, Kronenbourg 1664 and many local brands.
Carlsberg today
Carlsberg A/S is listed in Copenhagen and controlled by the Carlsberg Foundation, which funds science and the arts. The group acquired Britvic in 2025, adding soft drinks. Carlsberg has set targets for zero carbon emissions at its breweries.
What comes next for Carlsberg
Carlsberg's next phase centres on integrating Britvic, growing in Asia and expanding alcohol-free and soft drinks.
Why Carlsberg ranks #57
Brand Positioning & Recall (72.0) and Sustainability, Governance & ESG (72.0) carry Carlsberg's Power Score of 69.28.
Digital Presence & Financial Soundness at 62.0. What would move it: Stronger digital engagement and clearer published financial reporting at brand level.
Pillar profile
Versus its nearest rivals
17 Food & Beverage brands are in the Europe 100. Carlsberg is #9 in its sector.
Questions people ask
What rank is Carlsberg in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026?
Carlsberg ranks #57 of 100 in Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026, with a WCRC Power Score of 69.28 out of 100.
When was Carlsberg founded and who founded it?
Carlsberg was founded in 1847. Founder(s): J.C. Jacobsen.
What is Carlsberg's weakest area?
In the 2026 assessment, Carlsberg's lowest pillar is Digital Presence & Financial Soundness at 62.0 out of 100.
Who leads Carlsberg today?
Jacob Aarup-Andersen, CEO. The brand is owned by Carlsberg A/S (controlled by the Carlsberg Foundation).
Where is Carlsberg headquartered?
Carlsberg is based in Copenhagen, Denmark. Its country of origin is Denmark.
What is Carlsberg's revenue?
DKK 89.1bn sales (FY2025, including Britvic), according to the company's published results.
What is a signature fact about Carlsberg?
In 1883 the Carlsberg Laboratory isolated a pure lager yeast and shared it freely with brewers worldwide.
Key facts
| Brand | Carlsberg |
|---|---|
| Company / owner | Carlsberg A/S (controlled by the Carlsberg Foundation) |
| Headquarters | Copenhagen, Denmark |
| Founded | 1847 |
| Founder(s) | J.C. Jacobsen |
| Leadership | Jacob Aarup-Andersen, CEO |
| Latest revenue | DKK 89.1bn sales (FY2025, including Britvic) Source |
| Sector | Food & Beverage |
| Country of origin | Denmark |
| Signature fact | In 1883 the Carlsberg Laboratory isolated a pure lager yeast and shared it freely with brewers worldwide. |
| Official website | carlsberggroup.com |
Carlsberg is ranked #57 in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026 (Power Score 69.28).