Tennent’s Acquires Innis & Gunn; Brewery and Pubs to Shut Down
Tennent’s has made a significant move in the beer industry by acquiring Innis & Gunn for £4.5 million. This acquisition comes as a rescue for the brand, which was founded by Dougal Gunn Sharp in 2003. Unfortunately, the purchase also means the closure of the brewery and all taprooms, leading to the loss of over 100 jobs.
Details of the Acquisition
The acquisition was confirmed by C&C Group, the parent company of Tennent’s. With this investment, C&C Group gains ownership of Innis & Gunn’s brand and intellectual property. The transition will result in the immediate shutdown of:
- All three taprooms located in Glasgow and Edinburgh
- The brewing facility in Perth
Impact on Innis & Gunn
Dougal Gunn Sharp expressed deep regret regarding the impact on his employees and stakeholders. He referred to the acquisition process as “bruising,” acknowledging the emotional toll on those affected. Sharp stated, “I’m deeply sorry to everyone affected, particularly my colleagues who have lost their jobs.”
Future of the Brand
Despite the challenges, Sharp believes that Innis & Gunn has found a suitable home within C&C Group. He emphasized the company’s extensive experience and distribution capabilities, stating, “They have the scale, distribution, and experience to take Innis & Gunn forward.”
C&C Group’s CEO, Roger White, also highlighted the positive aspects of this acquisition. He noted that it provides a valuable opportunity to save an established brand. White commented, “This is a compelling and highly synergistic opportunity to save a well-loved brand for which we currently brew most of the product.”
Looking Ahead
The integration of Innis & Gunn into C&C Group’s operational structure is expected to be swift. The company anticipates that this move will positively influence their financial performance as early as FY27. The brewing giant aims to ensure that customers and consumers continue receiving Innis & Gunn’s products without interruption.
