71 Brewing expands with Bon Accord deal

A Scottish craft beverage group is set to expand its reach and product range.

71 Brewing has acquired Bon Accord Soft Drinks, merging two independent premium brands under one roof. 

Bosses say the combination brings together 71 Brewing’s expertise in craft beer with Bon Accord’s naturally sweetened, plant-based soft drinks, creating a complementary portfolio aimed at capturing growth in the premium drinks market both in the UK and overseas.

They add that the deal will enable accelerated product development and new packaging formats, backed by both capital investment and strategic collaboration, strengthening 71 Brewing’s position as Scotland’s fastest-growing brewery in UK grocery.

Duncan Alexander, managing director of 71 Brewing, said: “The merger presents a unique opportunity to work with an established, opportunity-rich brand that shares our values. 

“Bon Accord’s ethos of craft and quality mirrors our own, and their premium soft drinks are a perfect complement to our beer portfolio. 

“Together, we’re creating a stronger, more versatile drinks company that reflects Scotland’s creativity and ambition.” 

Karen Knowles, founder of Bon Accord, added: “Now is the right time for this transition. 

“We’ve had nine successful years of growth, building a brand founded by my great-great-grandfather in 1903, which places wellbeing and better-for-you drinks at the heart of everything we do.

“Partnering with 71 Brewing expands our operational capacity and allows us to scale, innovate, and reach new audiences with even greater impact.”

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