Asahi Beverages has announced its acquisition of Allpress Espresso, a supplier of fresh roasted coffee beans to cafes and restaurants.
Founded in 1989 in New Zealand, Allpress has since expanded to include operations in the UK, Japan, Singapore and Australia.
The company sells more than 1,500 tonnes of coffee beans to boutique cafes and restaurants worldwide every year, and this figure is expected to grow under Asahi’s ownership.
While Allpress’s major focus is selling coffee beans to foodservice establishments, the business also recently launched a speciality iced coffee drink and a cold coffee concentrate. In addition, the company sells direct to consumers online and through more than a dozen Allpress cafes.
Following the deal – which marks Asahi’s entry into Australia’s fresh coffee market – the Allpress management team will remain in place, while founder Michael Allpress will remain with the company as an ambassador.
More than 240 full-time employees work at Allpress and all jobs are said to be safe.
“Asahi Beverages and Allpress are a great fit. We’ve been impressed by their premium branding, commitment to flavour, quality customer service and track record of growth – attributes that Asahi Beverages shares,” said Asahi Beverages Group CEO, Robert Iervasi.
“We’re thrilled to extend our portfolio of brands into the large and complementary coffee category, which will also help us meet more of our customers’ needs whether they be cafes, restaurants, pubs or retailers. This acquisition consolidates our position as the multi-beverage provider of choice for customers and consumers.”
Allpress CEO, Vaughan Magnusson, said: “Asahi share our focus on quality and have values that align with ours. They are the right organisation to take Allpress to the next level while preserving our heritage, culture and integrity.”
Michael Allpress added: “It’s been an amazing journey but after 30 years the time is right for the business to go to the next level. The expertise, craftsmanship and relationship-based culture it has developed mean it’s very well placed to take this next step. I can’t wait to see what’s next for the business and the team.”
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