UK – Australia-based international wine business Accolade Wines has expanded its UK wine portfolio with the acquisition of the Lambrini perry brand. 

Accolade Wines, a subsidiary of American private equity company Carlyle Group, acquired its new wine jewel from Halewood Artisanal Spirits for an undisclosed sum.  

First created in 1994, Lambrini is a light and fruity perry or pear cider that comes in varieties such as original, cherry, strawberry and mango in both bottles and cans. 

With the acquisition, Lambrini will become part of Accolade Wines’ portfolio of brands including wine labels Hardys, Echo Falls, Jam Shed, St Hallett and House of Arras. 

The acquisition marks Accolade’s third acquisition in the past year following the purchase of Rolf Binder Wines and Katnook Estate in Australia. 

“Lambrini has such a strong heritage and is loved by British consumers. We are excited about the role the brand will play in our broader strategic growth plans for the UK and Europe,” said Accolade Wines CEO, Robert Foye. 

The acquisition of Lambrin is timely as the UK wine market is projected to experience growth both domestically and internally.

According to recent data from Research and Markets, the UK wine market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of more than 3% during the forecast period of 2019-2025.

Additionally, English wines are becoming increasingly popular outside the UK attracting double-digit growths since 2018 presenting further opportunities for wine producers. 

Access to raw materials is also guaranteed at least in the near future with the raw material supply chain for wine being among one of the fastest-growing agricultural sectors in the country as acreage of vineyards has tripled since 2000.  

There is also more potential in production which Accolades stands to benefit from its new acquisition. 

According to Research and Markets, UK wine production in 2018 was 15.6 million bottles and is targeting it to increase to 40 million by 2040.  

Accolade Wines Europe managing director, Caroline Thompson-Hill, said: “We believe this acquisition is a great thing for the industry and the consumer as we continue to invest in our partnerships, innovate the category, and deliver products that excite the consumer.” 

The divestiture of Lambrini marks the final stage in Halewood’s corporate strategy to focus on its core portfolio of artisanal spirit brands such as Whitley Neill Gin and JJ Whitley Vodka.  

Last year, the company announced plans to close its Huyton site as carbonated drinks became less profitable, and said it was considering outsourcing Lambrini to a contract packer. 

Halewood UK managing director, John Bradbury, added: “We believe Lambrini is in capable hands with Accolade Wines, which has a track record of building global brands. We will work closely with Accolade Wines and our customers through the period of transition to ensure continued delivery of the Lambrini brand to market.” 

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