Empowering excellence
Established in 1942, the Photos Photiades Group has transformed into one of the largest, most dynamic, and successful private enterprises in Cyprus, making a significant impact across Central and Southeastern Europe.
With a dedicated team of over 1,200 professionals, we lead the industry in beverage production and distribution, alongside our expertise in real estate and financial services.
PHOTOS PHOTIADES GROUP AT A GLANCE
+ 1200 people
+ 80 years of operation
+ 100 international and local awards
Across 5 countries
Across sectors, towards progress
With a strong presence across three key sectors – beverages, real estate, and financial services – our Group is driving growth inspired by progress, committed to sustainable development, while creating lasting value for the wider community and economy.
Building a brighter future
As we continue to innovate and shape the future of business in the region, our values are the basic ingredients of our success: committed to reliability, passionate about societal responsibility, and driven by sustainable growth.
Our strategic vision is guided by these pillars, which also inform the daily work of our teams across every sector and region, building on our legacy since 1942.
At our core, we are dedicated to delivering results that matter, creating positive social impact, and fostering long-term growth for our communities and stakeholders.
Our Founder
Photos.Ia.Photiades, was a charismatic personality and leader, described by many as the ‘Patriarch of Cyprus Business’ and ‘Α true Gentleman and Patriot’.
Born in Angastina in the Famagusta district, on October 25, 1920, Photiades grew up in a family of ten and was lucky enough to have wonderfully loving and caring parents, Hadjicoumis Photios Photiades and Mariettou Hadjicoumis. He always fondly and proudly referred to them, wherever the occasion arose.
Every year represents a step forward. Every milestone, reflects a decision that shaped who we are. Since 1942, we’ve been building a legacy of business excellence and innovation.
Our history is more than just a timeline — it’s a story of people, values, vision and driving long-term growth. Below, we present some of the key chapters that shaped the evolution of the Photos Photiades Group.
Laying the Foundations
1942: Establishment of Photos Photiades & Co Ltd.
1947–1949: Expansion with offices and warehouses in Alexandria, Beirut and Athens.
Acquisitions & Strategic Partnerships
1961: Acquisition of Thea Ygeia, the first water bottling company in Cyprus (Moutoullas).
1963: Majority share acquired in M.Chr. Platanis Co, owner of Leon beer.
1964–1967: Secured exclusive rights to Chinese products and Greek ASTOR blades.
1965: Acquisition of the Fontana Amorosa Coast Ltd farm.
1966: The first ever license agreement signed with Carlsberg Denmark.
1969: Opening of the Cyprus Carlsberg Brewery and launch of locally produced Carlsberg beer.
Rebuilding on Principle
1974: The Turkish invasion of Cyprus inflicts significant financial damage to the Group
1975-1980: A period of rebuilding, following the aftermath of the invasion, focusing on the Group’s values
Cyprus Beer Market Leadership
1980-1990: The Group focuses its activities on the production and distribution of beer and water and Carlsberg becomes the leading beer brand in Cyprus.
New Generation – New Markets
1990–1992: Second-generation leadership (Pavlos & Alexis Photiades) takes over.
1991: Acquisition of Blue Sky, the company that currently bottles Agros Natural Mineral Water.
1992: Establishment of the Photos Photiades Foundation (public benefit, science & culture).
1996: Creation of the first Natural History Museum in Cyprus.
1997: Launch of ENA juices.
1998: Beginning of operations of PPD Global in Cyprus.
Expanding horizons – from Wine to International Ventures
2000-today: PPD Global grows its portfolio through strategic partnerships with global leaders like Diageo, Moet Hennessy, Gruppo Campari, Monin.
2000: Opening of Kyperounda Winery, with the highest altitude vineyards in Europe.
2002: Launch of Emerald Developments and the Carolina Park residential project.
2004: Creation of Beverage World in Greece, marking strong growth and partnerships.
2007–2012: PPD Global expands in Eastern Europe with subsidiaries in Romania, Croatia and Slovenia.
2007: Universal Life, the first insurance company in Cyprus, joins the Group.
2009: The Group’s first real estate project in Athens begins.
Driving Innovation, Embracing Diversification
2019: The Group enters the Greek coffee sector with Lavazza in Greece.
2019: Completion of full automation of the Group’s brewery — one of the most modern in the world.
2021: Production and launch of Carlsberg 0.0, Cyprus’ first alcohol-free beer.
2021: Re-launch of LEON beer using Cyprus-grown hops cultivated at Kyperounda winery.
2021: Drinks.hr the Group’s first e-commerce business is launched in Croatia.
2021: The Group enters the Croatian’s coffee market in collaboration with Illy Group.
2022: Launch into the craft beer with Voreia and Sandy.
2022: Acquisition of Militsa Craft Cidery in Farmakas.
2024: Launch of Latina Beer.
Managing Directors
Pavlos Photiades
Alexis Photiades
Board of Directors
Pavlos Photiades
Alexis Photiades
Ilona Photiadou Michaelidou
Carolina Photiades
Constantinos Dekatris
