Molson Coors is already a significant presence in the UK, owning Carling and Cobra Beer. Now it is acquiring Aspall, the 300-year-old, family run British cider maker. Terms weren’t disclosed.
“Molson Coors is known for respecting the provenance of local brands it has acquired in the past, and has the scale and expertise to accelerate our growth in the premium cider category in the UK and beyond,” Barry Chevallier Guild, Aspall’s chairman, said.
Molson Coors bought Cornwall brewery Sharps, maker of popular cask ale Doombar, for £20 million in 2011.
“We’re delighted to add Aspall to the Molson Coors portfolio,” said Phil Whitehead, Molson Coors managing director for the UK and Ireland. “Both companies share a similar history that is deeply rooted in family, dedication to customers and a commitment to excellence.
“The Chevallier’s have been producing cyder for almost 300-years and their range of brands enhances our existing portfolio. We’re now looking forward to helping Aspall become the No. 1 premium cider in the UK and building on the huge potential of the Aspall vinegars, as part of a need to premiumize our portfolio.”
Aspall’s cider and vinegars will continue to be made in Suffolk where it employs 127 people. Members of the Chevalier family, the eighth generation since Aspall was founded, will remain in the business.