Nigerian Breweries Plc (NB), finalized the acquisition of the remaining 20% shareholding in Distell Wines and Spirits Nigeria Limited (DWSN), further solidifying its position in the Nigerian beverage market.
In a disclosure made to the Nigerian Exchange on March 19, 2024, and signed by the company’s secretary, Uaboi G. Agbebaku, Nigerian Breweries confirmed that the acquisition followed the execution of a sale and purchase agreement with the minority shareholders of DWSN—Ekulo International Limited and Next International Nigeria Limited, each holding a 10% stake.
The announcement also revealed that DWSN has moved its production operations from rented facilities to Nigerian Breweries own manufacturing sites.
This move is expected to bolster the company’s presence in the wines, spirits, and ready-to-drink (RTD) categories.
Explaining the strategic benefits of the acquisition, Nigerian Breweries emphasized that owning 100% of DWSN would simplify decision-making processes and reduce complexities, supporting the company’s efforts to expand its product offerings beyond beer.
“The full acquisition will help to reduce complexities and make decision-making faster in NB’s ambition to expand beyond beer,” the company stated.
This acquisition follows Nigerian Brewerie’s earlier move in June 2024, when it acquired an 80% stake in Distell Wines & Spirits Nigeria Limited, alongside the full acquisition of Heineken Beverage’s import business in Nigeria.
With this latest transaction, DWSN becomes a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nigerian Breweries, allowing the company to broaden its operations to include the importation, marketing, and distribution of a wide range of wines, spirits, and ciders.
DWSN’s portfolio includes popular brands such as the 4th Street wine range (red, rosé, white, sparkling, and non-alcoholic), Chamdor, Hunters Dry, Savannah Dry, and Gold.
Imported wines and spirits in the portfolio include Drosty Hof, Nederburg, Amarula Cream Liqueur, Bain’s Whisky, and Scottish Leader Whisky.
Following this acquisition, Nigerian Breweries now fully owns Distell Wines and Spirits Nigeria Limited, having previously held an 80% stake.
