Amber Beverage Group acquires UK distributor Indie Brands

Amber Beverage Group (ABG) has acquired a majority stake in UK premium spirits distributor Indie Brands, as it aims to drive its UK business.

Following the deal, Indie Brands will continue to operate independently with current management remaining in place.

Founded in 2012, Indie Brands distributes a wide variety of spirits including Mexican mezcals, Finnish vodkas and Spanish gins.

“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,” said ABG CEO Seymour Ferreira.

Douglas Cunningham, Indie Brands managing director, said: “This acquisition represents a huge vote of confidence in the work 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 Brand’s full potential and continue doing what we do best – celebrating premium spirit brands and maintaining our independent approach.”

As a result of this acquisition, ABG has appointed Simon Thomas to the newly created role of managing director for the firm’s UK division.

Thomas has more than 25 years of international commercial experience and has served in several senior executive roles at companies including SABMiller, Pernod Ricard and Diageo.

In June last year, ABG acquired 100% of UK-based drinks distributor Cellar Trends. SPI Group-owned ABG first acquired a stake in Cellar Trends in May 2017, then increased its ownership to 70% in 2018.

Both UK distributors Cellar Trends and Indie Brands will report to Thomas with immediate effect. In his new role, Thomas will also lead further M&A opportunities in the UK.