The oldest industrial company in Lithuania – the Gubernija brewery – has become an inseparable symbol of the city of Šiauliai and one of the region’s economic engines. Bringing local communities together, fostering strong relationships with employees and partners, and successfully blending heritage, traditions, and authentic recipes with modern technologies, the brewery has been growing alongside the city for 360 years.

A story connecting ten generations

Gubernija’s history is deeply intertwined with the development and modernization of Šiauliai. Mindaugas Bistrickas, the brewery’s Production Director, estimates that the brewery is now home to the tenth generation of Šiauliai residents and confirms that there are several employees whose parents or grandparents also helped build Gubernija’s history.
“The shared legacy of ten generations can be felt at every step here. Over all these years, we’ve achieved so much together – from preserving historical heritage and culture to celebrating collective victories,” summarizes Bistrickas.

Today, Gubernija remains firmly committed to its path – raising employees’ qualifications through training with the latest technologies, creating new value-added jobs, and actively collaborating with business and local government institutions and partners. Furthermore, Gubernija strengthens the economic potential of Šiauliai, actively supports the city’s cultural, tourism, sports, and social initiatives, promotes a sense of community, and strives to make Šiauliai an even more attractive place to live, work, and create.

According to Bistrickas, the renovated visitor center “Gubernija HUB,” opened last year, has already become a magnet for the local community and guests, inviting them to discover the region and the city. Visitors are equally impressed by the brewery’s centuries-old history and its ambitious investments in recent years.

Data from MV GROUP Production, which manages Gubernija, show that since acquiring the brewery in 2018, over €8 million has already been invested, with a record €4 million investment planned for this year. Production lines will continue to be modernized, innovative technologies introduced, and sustainability solutions implemented – all of which increase capacity, boost competitive advantage, and positively impact the regional business ecosystem.

“We want to see positive change not only in Šiauliai. By introducing innovations, we aim to make both the city and Lithuania known internationally through our products. International recognition is a testament to our collective hard work,” emphasizes Bistrickas.

Blending tradition and innovation

Šiauliai’s Mayor, Artūras Visockas, points out that companies like Gubernija are not just economic entities in statistical reports but also significant parts of the city’s identity:
“We are honored to have the oldest still-operating industrial company in Lithuania right here in Šiauliai. It not only strengthens Šiauliai’s image as an industrial and innovative city but also ensures economic vitality.”

According to the mayor, the company’s stability sends a positive signal to both investors and residents that Šiauliai is a favorable place to grow and succeed. Continuous innovation reflects the local people’s determination to improve and lead – with the same persistence as in sports.

Today, Gubernija employs 101 people. Mayor Visockas notes that it is one of the model employers that consistently invests in its team.

Specialists at the company are trained to work with the latest technologies, and investments help create higher value-added jobs, strengthening the entire Šiauliai regional labor market.

Production Director Bistrickas confirms that Gubernija attracts qualified specialists to Šiauliai, introducing new talent into the local workforce. The brewery’s active cooperation with local companies such as Putokšnis, Nirlita, Aksida, and others also promotes the progress of the broader business ecosystem.

Promoting the name of Šiauliai

Edita Grigaliauskienė, Director General of the Šiauliai Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Crafts, notes that Gubernija’s longevity is a unique case in Lithuanian industry.
“It demonstrates the company’s ability to adapt and remain relevant, which is an exceptional value in today’s rapidly changing business environment. Gubernija has succeeded where many industrial companies face challenges – preserving its historical identity while keeping pace with modern innovation,” highlights Grigaliauskienė.

She believes that the company’s strategy – combining authenticity with modernization, investing in quality management, strengthening marketing, and expanding exports – can serve as an example for many other regional businesses. Moreover, the growing international recognition of Gubernija’s products raises the visibility of Šiauliai as a center of quality manufacturing, both in Lithuania and abroad.

This is confirmed by the brewery’s recent achievements – last year alone, Gubernija collected an impressive array of international awards. At the prestigious World Beer Awards 2024, Gubernija’s “Ekstra” lager and “German Pils” pilsner both won gold medals. In addition, both beers were recognized as the best in their categories in Lithuania.

“This proves that it is possible to create a long-lasting, sustainable, and successful business in Šiauliai. Industrial companies with a long history undoubtedly contribute to strengthening the region’s image as a favorable environment for business. Gubernija sets a great example for both young businesses and long-standing companies,” says Grigaliauskienė.

Strengthening the community and fostering culture

Mayor Visockas emphasizes that Gubernija plays an important role not only in the economic life of Šiauliai but also in its social and cultural life. Every year, Gubernija supports various local sports and cultural organizations – men’s and women’s basketball and football teams, the rugby club, the children’s football academy, the Šiauliai Drama Theater, and numerous other initiatives, including the annual Šiauliai Days festival.

According to the mayor, close cooperation between the municipality and Gubernija enables the implementation of significant cultural and sports projects that strengthen the city’s community.

“This year, Gubernija is celebrating a special anniversary and, as I’ve heard, is preparing to surprise city residents and guests. I believe that Šiauliai Days this year will be particularly special, as the oldest company in Lithuania will be gifting us a concert by singer Justė Arlauskaitė-Jazzu,” says Visockas.

He also expresses his delight that Gubernija has become a significant landmark on Šiauliai’s tourism map – the renovated Gubernija HUB visitor center has become a popular destination for both locals and visitors from abroad.

“It’s important that Gubernija preserves the value of industrial heritage while offering the opportunity to experience unique production traditions. It’s a wonderful opportunity for anyone wanting to discover Lithuania’s oldest company – and, at the same time, to experience Šiauliai as a dynamic and innovative city,” says Visockas.

Production Director Bistrickas agrees with the mayor, adding that Gubernija and the city have always shared the same goal – to grow and nurture growth.

According to him, the long shared history continues successfully because both the brewery and the city are cared for by people who are united by common values and even similar character traits – persistence, energy, and mutual support.

“We all want to contribute to the city’s prosperity, preserving traditions and heritage while at the same time implementing innovations. We are creative and bold in showcasing our best qualities, and for that, we earn international recognition – sharing victories that make Šiauliai and Lithuania proud. Our collective achievements and clear vision strengthen the community and inspire the city – making it a place where it feels good to return, to work, and to live,” says Bistrickas.