SA Brain buys drinks distributor

Welsh brewer SA Brain has bought the drinks distribution business of W. Hall & Son (Holywell) Ltd, for an undisclosed sum.

The deal for the North Wales-based group creates a distribution network for the licensed trade covering the North, South, East and West of Wales.

The acquisition includes operational bases from depots in Holywell, Congleton, Crewe and Liverpool, "providing the infrastruture for the widening the availability of Brains' beers in the UK and a foundation for the expansion of Brains' retail estate into North and Mid Wales", the brewer said.

Scott Waddington, Brains' chief executive, said: "At a challenging time for the drinks market, this acquisition reflects our positive long term strategic plan to gain market share and to further advance Brains' position as the leading independent drinks and hospitality business in Wales.

"Brains has excellent credentials and strengths to successfully build on Halls' market position through its famous brands, its high profile image and sponsorships, and its growing portfolio of high quality pubs".

Halls' managing director, Michael Hall said: "These two long established businesses have a great deal in common, in particular our value of customer service above all else.

"Brains has a strong presence in the wholesale market, particularly in South and West Wales, having purchased similar wholesaler businesses in recent years. Hence, the fit with the Brains business and growth plans is a natural one."

Brains' currently operates 266 pubs in Wales and the South West of England, which together with 1500 free trade stockists are serviced by existing depots in Aberystwyth, Builth Wells, Cardiff and Whitland.