Genuine Danish booze – soon to be imported from Oslo

Production of Gammel Dansk and Aalborg Aquavit moving to Norway

The production of Aalborg Aquavit and Gammel Dansk, two signature Danish alcohols, is moving from the Jutland city to Gjelleråsen outside of Oslo, Norway in 2015. 

Aalborg Distillers was taken over by the Norwegian Arcus Group in January 2013, and the Norwegian company cited the limited production capabilities of the Aalborg location as a reason for the switch.

“We need to grow these traditional brands,” Arcus head Otto Drakenberg told DR Nyheder. “Our mission is to increase consumer awareness of some of Denmark's most famous products.”

Jobs cut
The move will result in the loss of 14 jobs in Aalborg.

“It is sad to lose good employees,” said Drakenberg.

Production of the two products is expected to be in full swing in Norway by the spring of next year. When Arcus Group bought the  brands more than a year ago, the aim was to create new growth in the market for spirits and bitters.

READ MORE: Strategy to keep manufacturing jobs at home

The Aalborg location will still be used as a micro-distillery where R&D for the two brands will be carried out. The rest of the facility, which sits near the waterfront, will be transformed into office and living space.