Constellation Brands and New Zealand-based craft brewer Moa Brewing have agreed to establish a joint sales venture in New Zealand.
Set to begin operations on June 1 2018, the new venture team will be called MoBev and will focus on promoting sales of Constellation’s spirits range and Moa’s portfolio of craft beers to consumers in New Zealand.
The sales joint venture will be based at Constellation’s West Auckland office, and all brands from both companies’ portfolios will be represented by the new team.
Constellation Brands claims that the move will create new opportunities for both brands, and will allow both companies to capitalise on the growth of craft beer in the New Zealand and Australian markets.
President of Constellation Brands Simon Towns said: “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.
“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.”
Moa CEO Geoff Ross added: “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.
“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.
“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.”
Source: foodbev.com
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