The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

Independent drinks company Global Brands has announced the acquisition of three alcohol brands from Molson Coors Beverage Company.

According to the company, the acquisition of the Hooch, Hooper’s and Reef trademarks will give Global Brands freedom to grow them "in a way that aligns with the company's vision". The brands – which, under license from Molson Coors have been produced and distributed by Global Brands since 2012 – will now form part of its owned portfolio. Nino Beneta, managing director of Molson Coors Export and License EMEA & APAC, said: “We are excited to see Global Brands progress in growing these brands over the last decade and look forward to seeing the continued success and growth of the Reef, Hooper's and Hooch brands going forward”.

He added: “Moving forward as an EMEA & APAC Export and License team, our focus will continue to be on a select portfolio of key international brands such as Coors, Staropramen, Carling, Madri Excepcional and Blue Moon.” Steve Perez, chairman and founder of Global Brands, added: "This will give us the opportunity to invest further into the brands with the added security of owning the equity. This deal will reinforce Global Brands’ position as the leading independent producer of RTD brands in the UK”. He continued: “We have lots of ideas for innovation and look forward to sharing these with the trade and consumers shortly. We have enjoyed a fantastic supportive relationship with Molson Coors over the years and look forward to continuing working closely together through their route-to-market team.” Terms of the deals were not disclosed.