As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to the question of whether Lion Beer is discontinued.
To begin with, Lion Beer was indeed one of the biggest sellers in the South African Breweries (SAB) group during the 1970s and early 1980s. It enjoyed immense popularity and was a favorite among beer drinkers during that time. However, as the 1990s rolled around, its popularity began to decline compared to Castle sales.
It is estimated that Lion's share of the market had fallen to below 3.5% of SAB's overall sales. This decline in market share was likely due to various factors such as changing consumer preferences, increased competition from other beer brands, and possibly even marketing strategies.
In the year 2000, Lion Beer was eventually taken off the market. This decision was most likely made due to its declining popularity and low market share. Discontinuing a product is a common business practice when it no longer performs well in the market. The decision to discontinue Lion Beer was likely a strategic move by the SAB group to focus on their more successful brands.
However, it's important to note that the information provided is based on historical data and market trends. As the beer industry is constantly evolving, it is possible that there have been changes since then. It is always recommended to consult up-to-date sources or contact the SAB group directly for the most accurate and current information on their product lineup.
Lion Beer was indeed discontinued in 2000 due to its declining popularity and low market share. While it may have been a big seller in the past, changing consumer preferences and increased competition led to its eventual removal from the market.