Champion Breweries Plc has officially completed the acquisition of the Bullet brand portfolio from Sun Mark, marking a major step in its evolution from a regional brewer into a diversified pan-African beverage powerhouse. The deal, first announced in August 2025, signals a strategic shift aimed at expanding the company’s footprint across fast-growing ready-to-drink (RTD) alcoholic and energy drink markets on the continent.
With the transaction now finalized, Champion gains full ownership of Bullet’s global brand assets, trademarks, formulations, and commercial rights through a structured asset carve-out. These assets are now housed in a newly created Netherlands-based entity where Champion holds a majority stake, while Vinar N.V. retains minority ownership. This structure allows the Nigerian brewer to integrate the business quickly while positioning itself for future growth.
The acquisition instantly gives Champion access to Bullet’s established presence in 14 African markets, significantly widening its reach beyond Nigeria. Bullet Black already leads Nigeria’s RTD alcoholic beverage segment, while Bullet Blue has carved out strong consumer loyalty in the energy drink category across several African countries. This gives Champion an immediate foothold in high-growth beverage segments with proven demand.
According to company leadership, the move accelerates Champion’s transformation into a multi-category consumer beverage platform with continental ambitions. The deal is expected to boost foreign exchange earnings, enhance distribution strength, improve supply chain efficiency, and diversify the company’s product portfolio into fast-moving consumer segments.
Chairman Imo-Abasi Jacob described the completion of both the Bullet acquisition and recent capital-raising efforts as a defining moment for the company’s future. Backed by approvals from the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Nigerian Exchange Group, the deal positions Champion Breweries for disciplined integration, regional production potential, and long-term value creation as it moves toward becoming a truly pan-African beverage player.
source: punch