Strategic Wholesale Acquisition
CC Group Agrees to Acquire Asahi UK Wholesale Business in Strategic Expansion
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Key Points
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Asahi UK said the transaction supports its strategy of concentrating on brewing, brand building and consumer engagement, while reaffirming its full ownership and operational control of the historic Griffin Brewery and the continued production of brands such as London Pride.
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Nectar Imports supplies venues across the South of England, while Asahi’s UK wholesale operation is based in Woking, Surrey, providing more detail on the businesses being transferred.
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C&C attributed the fall in distribution revenue not only to its planned exit from lower-margin customers but also to an ongoing decline in the number of hospitality outlets and in certain drinks categories.
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C&C’s branded revenue growth was helped by hot weather and the World Cup during the first half, according to the company’s trading update.
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C&C shares rose nearly 6% in morning trading after the acquisition announcement, reaching 94.4 pence by 0852 BST.
C&C Group has agreed to buy Asahi UK's wholesale business for a nominal fee, marking a major deal in the British drinks trade Kalkine Media. The acquisition brings Nectar Imports and Asahi's direct distribution into C&C's Matthew Clark Bibendum division, with the deal closing in early October 2026. C&C shares jumped nearly 6% on the news, climbing to 94.4 pence by morning trading Daily Mail.
The move lets Asahi focus purely on brewing and brand building at its historic Griffin Brewery, while C&C gains access to more customers and operational savings The Caterer. C&C also reported first-half results in line with expectations, with branded revenue up 2% but overall revenue down 3% due to a 4% drop in distribution revenue Kalkine Media.
What C&C Is Getting in the Deal
C&C acquires Nectar Imports, which supplies bars and restaurants across southern England, plus Asahi's wholesale operation based in Woking, Surrey The Caterer. The package includes customer lists, supplier agreements, intellectual property, a leased depot, vehicles and stock. C&C will also manage a long-term partnership with Asahi brands and take over supply arrangements for Fuller, Smith & Turner's pubs and restaurants.
Asahi Keeps Its Brewery and Beer Brands
Asahi retains full ownership and control of Griffin Brewery in London and continues making London Pride and other flagship beers UK Head Topics. The separation lets Asahi concentrate on brewing excellence and building consumer loyalty rather than running a distribution network. This strategy mirrors how many breweries now operate — focusing on what they make best while outsourcing logistics.
Distribution Revenue Pressures Hit C&C
C&C's distribution revenue fell 4% in the first half, driven both by planned exits from lower-margin customers and a broader decline in hospitality outlets Kalkine Media. Certain drinks categories also weakened during the period. The company expects underlying operating profit of €43 million to €44 million for the half year.
Branded revenue proved stronger, growing 2% with help from hot weather and World Cup excitement during the period Kalkine Media. The acquisition is expected to contribute positively to financial performance in fiscal 2027 and expand C&C's customer reach significantly.
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