OREANDA-NEWS. Belarus’ OJSC Minsk Sparkling Wines Plant reported a 4.2% increase in wine production in January-March 2013 to 320,500 decalitres, a source in the administration of the company told.

Still grape wine production reached 18,000 decalitres, down 42% year on year.

The company’s output expanded 45.3% on the year to Br99.532 billion (USD 11.49m).

The company has earmarked Br15 billion for production upgrade in 2013, including EUR500,000 to be invested in muzzle equipment.

The company also plans to abandon plastic plugs, which will be replaced with natural cork.

As previously reported, Belarus’ OJSC Minsk Sparkling Wines Plant has started having its securities traded on the Belarusian Currency and Stock Exchange.

The wine company on April 16 offered for sale 75,296 ordinary shares worth Br21.508 billion (USD 2.475 million), with a face value of Br285,650 (USD 32.87).

During the first day they sold 72.38% of the total bond offering: 54,506 shares worth Br15.57 billion (USD 1.8 million).

The company will spend the funds on equipment upgrade in 2014-2015.

Minsk Sparkling Wines Plant was established in 1978; it makes 80 varieties of beverages; annual output is estimated at 12 million bottles.