Nigerian Breweries acquires Distell

Nigerian Breweries Plc has acquired the remaining 20 percent stake in Distell Wines and Spirits Nigeria Limited (DWSN), gaining full ownership of the company.

The acquisition follows Nigerian Breweries’ earlier 80 percent purchase of Distell’s shares last year, completing its takeover of the business. According to a statement released on Wednesday, the transaction was finalized through a sale and purchase agreement with Ekulo International Limited and Next International Nigeria Limited, the minority shareholders who each held a 10 percent stake.

The Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) noted that the move aligns with Nigerian Breweries’ strategic objective to streamline operations, reduce complexities, and enhance decision-making as it expands into the wines and spirits market.

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“The acquisition will help to reduce complexities and make decision-making faster in Nigerian Breweries’ ambition to expand beyond beer,” the company stated.

Beyond simplifying operational processes, the acquisition is also expected to boost production capacity for Distell’s popular brands. As part of this initiative, the company revealed that production activities have been relocated from rented facilities to Nigerian Breweries’ premises.

“This transition will enable Distell to leverage the economies of scale at NB’s premises and strengthen its position in the wines, spirits, and ready-to-drink (RTD) categories,” the statement added.

Key locally produced brands under DWSN include Chamdor, 4th Street, Hunters Dry, and Savanna. Nigerian Breweries also imports an array of premium wines and spirits, including Amarula Cream Liqueur, Drosty Hoff, Nederburg wines, and Bain’s whisky.