In a move which will dramatically strengthen SA Brain and Co Ltd's distribution network across South and West Wales, the Cardiff brewer has purchased James Williams, one of Wales' leading drinks' distribution businesses.
James Williams' workforce of 60 will transfer to SA Brain and Co Ltd. The James Williams brand will be retained and will effectively trade as a subsidiary of Brains.
Jim Kerr, SA Brain and Co Ltd's operations director described the acquisition as an excellent move for the customers of both businesses.
"There is a strong and natural fit between Brains and James Williams," he said. "Our position as a large integrated brewing operation coupled with the strength of the Williams distribution network will reinforce our overall offer. Effectively Brains extends its network across Wales while the former James Williams business and its customers gain the additional services which Brains can supply.
"At the heart of any successful acquisition lies the need to ensure a smooth integration. Given the natural fit between the two businesses, we anticipate a seamless transition and, for all customers, the message will be 'business as usual'.
SA Brain and Co Ltd. chief executive Scott Waddington said that the deal marked a further step along the strategic path that the business has mapped out over the past 12 months.
"We have never made any secret of the fact that acquisition forms an important element of our strategy to develop the business," he said. "We felt that for this acquisition all the key factors were in place - there was a clear resonance with our own business; the business shares similar and complementary values; the geography was right; and we felt there was a strong commitment from the directors of James Williams.
"Overall, we feel that this is the best possible move for that business."
SA Brain and Co Ltd. was advised by lawyers Cartwright Adams & Black. Palser Grossman acted for the vendor.