USA – Dutch spirits producer Lucas Bols is eyeing a share of the lucrative US tequila market with the acquisition of Tequila Partida from the Shansby Trust and Edrington USA.
Tequila Partida is the World’s Highest-Rated Tequila made from the freshest agave that is artisanally distilled like the finest single malt and aged beyond expectations, according to the company’s website.
With the purchase, the company is looking to tap into the growing demand for tequila, which it says has been the fastest-growing spirits category in the US since 2000.
According to data from Statista, sales volume in the American market has shown continuous growth since 2004 and reached an all-time high exceeding 22 million 9-liter cases sold in 2020.
In the same year, retail sales of tequila exceeded US$ 9.2 billion U.S. dollars and are projected to soon overtake vodka as America’s favorite liquor, fueled by consumers’ desire for pricey bottles of agave-based spirits.
Lucas Bols’ portfolio already spans categories including gin, sambuca, passion fruit-flavored liqueur, and ready-to-drink cocktails.
The company announced its intention to acquire the ultra-premium tequila brand in December last year.
The purchase price consists of a fixed component of $10 million and a smaller variable component that can be earned over a two-year period.
With the acquisition, distribution of The Tequila Partida portfolio will now be done from the Lucas Bols USA platform in the US.
Spirits supplier Heaven Hill acquires Samson & Surrey
Meanwhile, US spirits supplier Heaven Hill has purchased Samson & Surrey, which owns a number of premium craft spirit brands, for an undisclosed sum.
The acquisition of Samson & Surrey includes its portfolio of six premium brands – including Bluecoat, Few Spirits and Mezcal Vago – and its facilities.
“Throughout our 86-year history, our focus has been building a business with a portfolio of great brands sold through a great team,” said Max Shapira, president at Heaven Hill Brands.
“The Samson & Surrey portfolio strategically enhances our portfolio with emerging brands in strong growth categories. Together with their team, Heaven Hill is poised to leverage the tremendous potential of these exciting brands.”
The purchase further expands Heaven Hill’s portfolio, and Samson & Surrey will continue to operate as an independent division of the company, led by founders Robert and Juan.
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