Australia: Foster’s loses distribution rights to Carlsberg, Danish brand expected to enter Coopers Brewery portfolio

Carlsberg has become the latest major beer label to leave Foster's Group following SABMiller's $12.3 billion takeover, with Coopers Brewery believed to have snared the rights to sell the brand in Australia, Stock & Land reported on April, 30.

A spokeswoman for Foster's Group confirmed on April, 29 that Foster's would cease its relationship with Carlsberg from July, The Australian Financial Review reports.

Industry sources said Coopers was finalising a deal with Carlsberg. It is understood Lion's swelling international premium portfolio proved unattractive for Carlsberg.

Coopers Brewery managing director Tim Cooper declined to comment on whether the South Australian brewery's distribution arm, Premium Beverages, had secured Carlsberg or if it were in negotiations with the brewer.

However, Dr Cooper said Coopers was in discussions with "a number of parties" about potential distribution agreements.

01 May, 2012