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Amber Beverage buys majority stake in UK distributor

Luxembourg-based Amber Beverage Group has acquired a majority share in UK spirits distribution firm Indie Brands for an undisclosed sum.

Amber Beverage Group has taken a majority stake in UK distributor Indie Brands

Indie Brands will continue to operate independently and the existing management team will remain in place.

Seymour Ferreira, CEO of Amber Beverage Group (ABG), said: “The inclusion of Indie Brands to our portfolio in the UK would enable the group to further drive their growing business interests in the UK.

“I am excited by the opportunities the exceptional team at Indie will offer our brands and our business in the UK.”

Indie Brands’ portfolio includes Tequila Corralejo, Lejay Liqueurs, Isle of Arran Distillery, Koskenkorva Vodka and Yellow Rose whiskey.

Douglas Cunningham, Indie Brands managing director, said: “This acquisition represents a huge vote of confidence in the world of my Indie colleagues, who have worked tirelessly to build the company and its portfolio of incredible brands since inception eight years ago.

“Becoming part of the ABG family will provide Indie Brands with all the necessary support to ensure we maximise our position, and that of our partner brands, in the UK market.

“We are very excited about this new partnership, which will enable us to reach Indie Brands’ full potential and continue doing what we do best – celebrating premium spirit brands and maintaining our independent approach.”

In light of ABG’s latest acquisition, the group has appointed Simon Thomas to the new position of managing director, Amber Beverage Group UK.

He will be responsible for supporting and leading further business development and merger and acquisition (M&A) opportunities in the UK.

In his most recent position, Thomas has been consulting on several alcoholic beverage companies in the UK and brings more than 25 years of international commercial experience in senior executive roles to ABG, including at Pernod Ricard and Diageo.

ABG also acquired 100% of UK distributor Cellar Trends last year. As such, both Indie Brands and Cellar Trends will report to Thomas with immediate effect.

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