ZX Ventures, the growth and innovation unit of brewing giant AB InBev, has acquired the UK-based Atom Group for an undisclosed sum.
The Atom Group, based in Kent, is comprised of online spirits retailer Master of Malt, producer Atom Brands (which includes That Boutique-y Whisky Company and That Boutique-y Gin Company) and distributor Maverick Drinks.
The leadership team of the Atom Group, including founder Justin Petszaft, Ben Ellefsen and Tom McGuiness, will remain in place with the Atom Group now, “able to tap into ZX Ventures and AB InBev’s global expertise and resources in order to scale up their pioneering eCommerce platform and get innovative and speciality drinks brands to more people around the world,” the two companies said in a statement.
Petszaft commented: “This deal is an amazing moment for our business, which has gone from working out of a shed in Kent, to one of the UK’s fastest-growing companies. We’ve always been a technology-focused business, building our eCommerce platform from scratch to give consumers the best experience possible and we recognised a kindred spirit in ZX Ventures, in its mission to innovate, grow and answer new consumer demands.
“We can’t wait to supercharge our business with ZX Ventures and share our tech expertise with their team as well.”
Andy Logan, eCommerce director for ZX Ventures, added: “We were set up to help other ambitious, innovative businesses unlock their potential, and that’s what this deal is all about.
“We loved the leadership team’s passion and enthusiasm for innovation and saw a really good cultural fit. We’re really excited about welcoming the Atom Group family into ZX Ventures and learning from the eCommerce expertise of the Master of Malt team.”
By Rupert Millar
Source: The Drinks Business
Danone has appointed Carla Hilhorst to the newly created position of senior vice president of research and innovation categories and zones, as the company looks to make science the heart of its business. Hilhorst, who brings over 30 years of experience in research and innovation, will report directly to Isabelle Esser, Danone’s chief research, innovation, quality and food safety officer.
The move, part of Pernod Ricard’s strategy to enhance its premiumisation efforts, will allow the company to focus more resources on its portfolio of premium international spirits and champagne brands that drive the growth of its business. This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable value for shareholders, employees, clients and partners.
Schai – who is the current CEO of Swiss chocolate company Lindt & Sprüngli’s Australian operation – has previously worked with Aryzta from 2015-2018, where he served in roles including managing director for Asia Pacific and global strategic business lead (McDonald’s). The fast-food giant McDonald’s is one of Aryzta’s significant clients.
