C&C Group to acquire Asahi UK’s Nectar imports wholesale business
The transaction will transfer Nectar Imports customers and distribution operations to Matthew Clark Bibendum as Asahi UK refocuses on brewing and brand development.
UK – C&C Group has agreed to acquire Asahi UK’s Nectar Imports wholesale business and direct distribution operations, with the transaction expected to close in October, subject to completion.
Following completion, Nectar Imports will be fully integrated into C&C’s Matthew Clark Bibendum (MCB) wholesale operation.
The acquisition includes the Nectar Imports business, customer and supplier contracts, and the lease of its depot in Hindon, Wiltshire. It will also include vehicles, stock, operating assets, technology and systems associated with the business.
C&C Group said the transaction will give Nectar Imports customers immediate access to MCB’s drinks portfolio, specialist category expertise and commercial, service and supply chain capabilities.
The agreement also includes the transfer of supply arrangements to the Fuller Smith Turner on-trade estate.
As part of the transaction, Asahi UK will cease direct distribution services managed from the Griffin Brewery site in Chiswick. These operations will transfer to MCB.
C&C Group CEO Roger White said the acquisition would expand MCB’s customer base while increasing scale across the group’s operations.
“This move represents an attractive opportunity to provide a significant number of new customers with MCB market leading service and range proposition. At the same time driving immediate scale and efficiency into the group operations,” White said.
He added that C&C expects the majority of the customer and supplier transitions to be completed with pace in the coming weeks and said the company looked forward to welcoming this group of new partners into our business.
Asahi UK Managing Director Tim Clay described the transaction as “an important strategic step” for the business.
“Following a thorough review of Nectar Imports and the evolving market landscape, we concluded that Matthew Clark Bibendum is the right long-term home for both our Nectar and our existing direct distribution customers,” Clay said.
He added that the transaction was the best outcome for our customers and strengthens our route-to-market.
Clay said the agreement would also allow Asahi UK to focus on its core activities.
“Importantly, it allows us to sharpen our focus on what we do best: brewing exceptional beers, building premium brands and investing in future growth,” he said.
C&C Group and Asahi UK said they will work together to support an orderly transition for customers, suppliers, and employees.
The companies also said Asahi UK’s leading portfolio would continue to be available through MCB, with both organisations committed to maintaining continuity of supply and service throughout the transition.
The deal supports Asahi UK’s strategy to focus on brewing, brand building and consumer engagement and growth.
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