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Czech soft drinks producer Kofola ČeskoSlovensko, part of Kofola Group, has entered the alcoholic market with the acquisition of Pivovary CZ Group. Kofola will acquire a 51% ownership stake in the brewery company, with the remaining co-ownership shared among the investment group RSJ (29%) and Úsovsko (20%). Pivovary – the fifth-largest brewing group in the Czech Republic – employs nearly 500 staff in its breweries located in Hanušovice, Přerov and Litovel. Kofola, which sells water, juice and cola drinks across Europe, said the acquisition will facilitate the company's expansion into another stable segment with export potential. Pivovary will continue to operate as an independently managed segment within Kofola. Jannis Samaras, CEO of the Kofola Group, said: “At Kofola, we have learned to develop traditional and local brands with a strong story. When the opportunity arose to invest in breweries that produce brands with a long history, backed by honest craftsmanship and modern production facilities, we didn’t hesitate. We believe that the experience of our people can help their development." Ing. Jaromír Dvorský, vice chairman of the board of directors of Pivovary, commented: "...We are committed to preserving the craft brewing tradition, stable relationships with customers, suppliers and employees, and corporate social responsibility. These were all important criteria in the sale negotiations." "We are glad that we have found a partner who will help us to maintain and further develop the quality of our beers and, at the same time, strengthen their business expansion." Completion of the deal is expected early next year. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.