The system enables outlets with limited space to stock premium lager and craft beer because it only requires water, a power supply, drainage and space for installation - traditionally within a bar or drinks service area.
The technology has been refined by the brewer over the past decade, and uses 20-litre PET kegs, replacing carbon dioxide with an in-built air compressor. It features a self-cleaning system and modular structure to stock or rotate up to six draught beers.
The system increases beer shelf life to 31 days from the current five to seven days for a traditional steel keg, and the air compression system means no contact with oxygen throughout the process. It also ensures reduced wastage.
Beer portfolio
The current DraughtMaster portfolio currently consists of Poretti 3, Poretti 9, Carlsberg Export, Shed Head, Brooklyn lager and Grimbergen Blonde, with more of the brewer’s premium brands scheduled to come on board in early 2017.
The news follows Brooklyn Brewery joining Carlsberg UK's craft range from January 2017.
On-trade innovation
Carlsberg UK's vice president on-trade Per Svendsen said: “DraughtMaster is one of the biggest innovations in the on-trade for decades, and is a game-changer for venues serving low to medium volumes of beer.
"The system delivers multiple benefits including fresher beer, higher yield, easy cleaning and the opportunity to offer more choice to consumers in the on-trade. Furthermore, we will now finally remove the hassle of Co2 cylinders and empty kegs.
“We are committed to providing our customers with the latest technology to support their businesses. DraughtMaster is a proven Carlsberg initiative and is currently operating in 16 countries around Europe including Italy – a market where 90% of Carlsberg products poured in the on-trade now uses DraughtMaster technology.”