As CARIB Brewery raises a toast to its 75th anniversary, the iconic Caribbean brand is charting a bold and confident path into the global spotlight. Rooted in culture, fuelled by innovation, and driven by purpose, CARIB is proving that a beer born in Trinidad and Tobago can stir hearts and taste buds from Port of Spain to Punjab and from the islands to the aisles of British pubs.

Founded in 1947, CARIB has grown from a cherished regional staple into an international symbol of Caribbean spirit and flavour. Now available in 39 countries and brewed in five key markets: Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, St. Kitts & Nevis, the USA, and India, the brand is becoming a staple not just of taste, but of identity.

The American Executive sat down with Adrian Sabga, Managing Director, International & Business Development at CARIB Brewery, to explore the brand’s evolution, its global ambitions, and what it means to stay true to your roots while stepping onto the world stage.

“A Carib starts with a memory,” Adrian reflects. “No matter where you’re from, the Caribbean conjures something vibrant and alive and we bottle that experience.”

But CARIB’s story isn’t just one of nostalgia. It’s about building something bigger. With more than 500 employees across the region and beyond, the company’s heartbeat lies in its people and those who craft, ship, share and champion the brand every day.

“We’re only as good as the people who carry our name,” Adrian says. “Our success is their success, and their passion shows in every market we enter.”

That passion extends to CARIB’s international partners, carefully chosen distributors and brewers who don’t just sell the beer, they live the brand.

“Our partners get it! They feel what CARIB stands for, and they deliver that emotion and authenticity into each sip, wherever it’s poured.”

Entering new markets isn’t just about supply, it’s about being part of a story. To thrive in places like India or the UK, CARIB leans into cultural insight and operational agility. Packaging formats, label designs, even bottle sizes are tailored to suit each country’s needs. Local production has also been a game-changer, reducing shipping emissions, ensuring product freshness, and allowing for nimble innovation.

“Each market teaches us something new,” Adrian notes. “It’s a dialogue. We don’t just bring CARIB to the world, we learn from the world to make CARIB even better.”

Naturally, expansion comes with growing pains, from logistical puzzles to regulatory labyrinths. But for Adrian, these hurdles build strength.

“We’re not chasing overnight hits. Some markets take years to build, but we’re in this for the long haul.”

And while the company climbs new heights abroad, it’s doubling down on its responsibilities at home, especially when it comes to the planet. A recent US$20 million investment in Line 7, its latest bottling line, is designed with sustainability at the core. Today, over 90% of CARIB’s packaging is recyclable.

The company’s closed-loop bottle return system keeps glass bottle and crates in circulation, while overseas partners are now sending empty bottles back to Trinidad and Tobago for reuse. Employees, dubbed “glass reuse ambassadors,” are empowered to lead by example in their respective environments and communities.

“From the materials we source to the machines we install, it all reflects our mission: minimise harm, maximise impact,” Adrian explains.

Still, the soul of CARIB lies in the brew itself. And no matter where you drink it, the promise remains unchanged.

“The Carib in London? Same as the one in Port of Spain,” Adrian smiles. “Freshness, flavour, and consistency; that’s how legends are made!”

But legends evolve too. CARIB is innovating with the health-conscious drinker in mind and introducing beverages with lower sugar, lighter carbonation, and even non-alcoholic options.

“People want balance,” Adrian says. “So we’re crafting beverages that celebrate both indulgence and wellness.”

Investment in R&D is opening new frontiers, from reduced-calorie beers to functional, flavourful drinks that redefine refreshment. The goal? To lead in a space where wellness and enjoyment meet.

Looking ahead, CARIB is pouring its energy into deepening market presence in the UK, India and other parts of the world, while strengthening its Caribbean base, its heart and heritage.

“This region is our home. We’ll never stop investing here,” Adrian affirms. “As we grow globally, we’re building capacity and pride locally.”

Ultimately, CARIB’s vision isn’t just about volume, it’s about value. Not just about beer, but belonging.

“If it’s cold, it’s sold,” Adrian says. “But what really makes CARIB a legend is the feeling it gives you that warm Caribbean rhythm in every sip.”

From a small island brewery to a global movement, CARIB’s journey proves one thing: when you stay true to your roots, the world will raise a glass and sip to legends!