Australia: Lion purchases craft brewer Bay Brewing Co.

Australia’s Lion, itself owned by Japan’s Kirin Holdings, has announced it's purchasing the Byron Bay Brewing Co, including its range of beers, brewery and hospitality operation, Australian Hospitality Magazine reported on April 29.

Lion has a growing portfolio of craft beers, including Little Creatures, James Squire, White Rabbit, Kosciusko and Knappstein.

Gordon Treanor, craft marketing director at Lion, said “When we were approached by Byron Bay Brewing Co we saw an opportunity to invest in a great local brewery, hospitality operation and craft beer portfolio, with a view to building the business locally and, possibly, in time, sharing these great beers with more people across the country.”

Barry Schadel, owner of Byron Bay Brewing Co, said he feels Lion shares his vision for the company.

“My number one priority was finding a buyer who would continue to invest in the brewery, beers and venue and take the business from strength to strength. Lion has a strong track record of doing this with other craft beers and I know I am leaving Byron Bay Brewing Co in good hands.”

Lion plans to invest in both the brewery and the venue, which includes a bar and restaurant, including a potential refurbishment following the completion of the purchase.

29 April, 2016