The drinks industry briefing
The latest news, trends, and data you need to know about this month
In numbers
$265m
Constellation Brands has concluded the sale of Paul Masson Grande Amber Brandy brand to Sazerac for approximately $265m.
$200m
US-based beverage producer Zevia has secured $200m investment from institutional investor Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec.
$1bn
Anheuser-Busch has announced its plans to invest $1bn over the next two years to boost its operations and facilities in the US.
$810m
E&J Gallo Winery has finalised the acquisition of more than 30 wine brands from Constellation Brands in a deal worth around $810m.
£500m
The Scotch Whisky Association has reported that the US tariffs on Scotch Whisky cost £500m in lost exports. According to the industry body, exports of Single Malt Scotch Whisky to the US have fallen by 35%.
In brief
Bira 91 secures $30m investment from Kirin Holdings
Indian craft beer brand Bira 91 has secured $30m investment from Japanese integrated beverages company Kirin Holdings.
Heineken to lay off 70 in South Africa and pause new investment
Heineken South Africa is reportedly planning to retrench 70 people. The company intends to stop new investments due to trade restrictions created by the pandemic and alcohol sales ban in the country.
Scotch Whisky industry seeks 5% tax reduction in UK Budget
The Scotch Whisky industry has called for a 5% reduction in excise duty in this year’s UK Budget, to help fill Treasury coffers and also boost the nation’s spirits amid the Covid-19 crisis.
Molson Coors plans to divest Indian business
Molson Coors is reportedly planning to sell its Indian business, including the beer brand Thunderbolt
Further reading
UK Deposit Return Scheme could cause “tidal wave of plastic”
Plastic drinks packaging could “dominate” supermarket shelves with the introduction of a Deposit Return Schemein the UK, according to new findings from the Aluminium Packaging Recycling Organisation produced in collaboration with the think-tank London Economics, and experts across the UK packaging sector.
Read more: Packaging-Gateway
