Hobgoblin brewer bought by Marston's

Marston's has announced it has acquired Refresh UK which owns the Wychwood Brewery, brewer of Hobgoblin and Brakspear.

The acquisition is consistent with Marston's strategy of developing a portfolio of premium beer brands to complement the Marston's range, led by Marston's Pedigree.

This purchase by Marston's follows the company's acquisitions of Jennings in 2005 and Ringwood in 2007.

Marston's has said it is committed to continuing the operation of the acquired Wychwood Brewery in Witney. Refresh is the UK's biggest brewer of organic ales, including Duchy Orginal organic for the Prince of Wales, and its portfolio also includes classic brown ale Mann's.

Alistair Darby, managing director of Marston's Beer Company said: "We are delighted to welcome Refresh to Marston's. We plan to develop the brand as part of our desire to meet increasing consumer demand for premium ales with strong provenance and heritage.

"We are looking to repeat the successes of the acquisitions of Jennings and Ringwood."

Rupert Thompson, chief executive of Refresh UK added: "Refresh has achieved a great deal since it was founded eight years ago. It is now the number three supplier of premium bottled ales to supermarkets. And Hobgoblin is one of the fastest growing premium ales in the UK."

Refresh UK was formed in 2000 and brews 50,000 barrels of beer a year. And in the year ending May 31 2007 the business turned over £24.9m, making a profit of £1.1m.

The amount spent on the acquisition by Marston's is to remain undisclosed.