Berentzen, the German beverage producer, has confirmed that it is in negotiations with US-based spirits manufacturer Sazerac regarding a voluntary public takeover offer.
According to an information disclosure by the Haselünne-headquartered company, Sazerac is seeking to acquire all outstanding shares in Berentzen. Berentzen operates across the spirits, non-alcoholic beverages and fresh juice systems segments, with a brand portfolio that includes Apfelkorn, Puschkin Vodka, Doornkaat, Bommerlunder and Mio Mio.
The potential acquisition comes during a challenging period for Berentzen, which has a market capitalization of approximately €35 million ($39 million). Reports indicate that the company’s first-half revenues fell by around 11% to €71 million ($79 million), while operating profit before interest and taxes dropped by more than 80% to approximately €600,000 ($670,000).
Berentzen would be the second purchase in quick succession for Sazerac, a New Orleans-based company specializing in whiskey with brands such as Southern Comfort and Buffalo Trace. In August it announced it had signed a binding agreement to acquire UK vodka and ready-to-drink (RTD) brand Au Vodka.
Source: Berentzen / Lebensmittelpraxis
