Nigerian Breweries Plc has finalized the acquisition of the remaining 20% stake in Distell Wines and Spirits Nigeria Limited (DWSN), thereby securing full ownership of the company. This move follows the signing of a sale and purchase agreement with DWSN’s minority shareholders, Ekulo International Limited and Next International Nigeria Limited, who each held a 10% stake in the company. The acquisition was officially disclosed through a regulatory filing with the Nigerian Exchange Limited on March 19, 2025.
Previously, Nigerian Breweries held an 80% majority stake in DWSN, which it acquired in June 2024. The full acquisition will now streamline decision-making processes within the company and accelerate its efforts to diversify beyond its core beer market. Nigerian Breweries highlighted that full control over DWSN will bolster its position in the wines, spirits, and ready-to-drink segments.
The company further emphasized that the acquisition would lead to operational improvements, including the relocation of DWSN’s operations from a rented facility to a dedicated premises. This strategic move is expected to enhance production capacity and enable Nigerian Breweries to capitalize on economies of scale, which in turn will strengthen its competitiveness in the alcohol beverage market.
In the broader context, Nigerian Breweries’ focus on expanding its portfolio into the wines and spirits sector is in line with its goal of increasing operational efficiency and driving long-term growth. The acquisition also reflects the company’s ambition to diversify and strengthen its market share in the beverage industry, signaling a bold step toward future market expansion.
source: punch