Dublin-based C&C Group has bought TennentÔÇÖs lager for ┬ú180 million (Ôé¼205 million), it was announced today.
TennentÔÇÖs, which is owned by drinks giant Anheuser-Busch InBev, is ScotlandÔÇÖs best-selling lager, accounting for 55 per cent of lager sold in pubs and restaurants, and 30 per cent of that sold to off-licences and supermarkets.
The sale will also give C&C, which makes Magners and Bulmers cider, distribution rights to certain Anheuser-Busch InBev brands in Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland, including Stella Artois and BeckÔÇÖs.
C&C will also acquire a Glaswegian brewery as part of the deal.
John Dunsmore, CEO of C&C, said in a statement: "Tennent's is a celebrated brand and is a compelling strategic fit for the group to develop alongside Magners in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
ÔÇ£This is a great opportunity to strengthen our route to market and broaden our product portfolio by combining our cider brands with some of the worldÔÇÖs leading beer brands."
Chairman Tony OÔÇÖBrien added: ÔÇ£The acquisition will, we believe, create operating synergies and increase shareholder value. Our management team has a strong track record of successfully managing internationally branded beverages.
ÔÇ£The Board unanimously recommends that shareholders approve this acquisition."
 
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