Stock Spirits Group has acquired The Drinks Company, a UK-based independent spirits importer and distributor.
The deal, completed for an undisclosed sum, would “strengthen the group’s ability to expand into one of Europe’s largest markets”, said Stock Spirits in a statement.
It will bring UK distribution of Sierra Tequila – the number one tequila in the off-trade – under Stock Spirits’ direct control. Stock Spirits has owned Sierra since 2023, when it bought German distiller Borco.
Along with Sierra, Stock Spirits also owns Clan Campbell whisky and a number of regional European spirits including the Amundsen and Keglevich vodkas, aperitif Limoncè Aperitivo and herbal bitters brand Fernet.
Founded in 1996, The Drinks Company had “well-established trade relationships and operational expertise” to help Stock Spirits “enhance its ability to serve UK customers”, said Stock Spirits. It operates across the UK, the Republic of Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the travel retail sector.
Having assumed control of The Drinks Company, Stock Spirits will accelerate expansion into the UK with the launch of two new products in Sierra Tequila ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails and Limoncè Aperitivo.
Rsps, stockists and launch dates for the rollout of these products were not made immediately available.
“Expanding into the UK is a pivotal moment for the group,” said Stock Spirits CEO Jean-Christophe Coutures. “Our vision is to become a leading spirits company in Europe by 2027 and a foothold in the UK is key to achieving this success.
“The acquisition of The Drinks Company represents a strong strategic fit for Stock Spirits,” he continued. “With its proven track record in the market, and significant stock presence with our iconic Sierra Tequila brand, this acquisition marks the next logical step in realising our ambition to build a broader European footprint.”
Stock Spirits has also appointed Rob Curteis as general manager of its UK operations.
Curteis had “over 20 years’ experience in the global spirits industry”, including roles at William Grant & Sons, Proximo UK, and Quintessential Brands, said Stock Spirits.
His appointment marked “a key step in accelerating growth in this priority market”, it added.
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