New Zealand: Moa Brewing teams up with Constellation Brands to create joint selling force

Moa Brewing Co, the largest New Zealand-owned brewer, has teamed up with Constellation Brands New Zealand, makers of leading wine brands Kim Crawford, Selaks and Crafters Union, to create MoBev, a joint selling force focussed on the New Zealand market, Voxy reported on April 30.

Both Moa and Constellation have been in strong growth over the past year and this move is expected to enhance this performance whilst opening new opportunities for both businesses. With a wider portfolio, this new selling force will expand its reach to service more beverage moments and occasions (the inspiration behind the name MoBev). The companies also plan to work together in Australia, where they will share existing sales resources.

Moa CEO Geoff Ross and Constellation President Simon Towns say the collaboration creates a beverage portfolio and servicing model that delivers benefits to both customers and consumers.

Craft beer is a powerful contributor of alcohol-beverage growth right now, Towns adds.

"We have been watching the growth of craft beer both locally and globally. Moa are the largest independent craft brewer in New Zealand and we’re excited about working with them," Towns says.

"Ballast Point and Funky Buddha are a couple of our own craft beers that are complementary to Moa’s range. Together, our combined offering across craft beer and total alcohol beverage make us more relevant to our customers," Towns adds

"The market is telling us a couple of things. Firstly, we know consumers don’t necessarily buy just a beer or just a wine, they buy for an occasion, often across multiple categories. With our combined portfolio of wine, beer and spirits we can now deliver this," Ross says.

"Secondly, our customers want experienced partners who can bring them insights and innovation to grow their beverage business. Our local capability teamed up with access to Constellation’s global insights are a winning combination," he adds.

"Constellation has been a standout innovator in New Zealand wine, with Crafters Union wine in cans and Selaks, The Taste Collection range being a couple of great recent examples. This culture of innovation and track record of success make them a great fit for us," Ross continues.

Launching on June 1, the new sales venture will be based at Constellation’s West Auckland office. All brands from both companies’ portfolios will be represented by the new team, including Moa’s cider, Constellation’s spirits portfolio and selected American craft beers.

30 April, 2018