Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan backs D2C startup Pluckk as brand ambassador and investor

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August 10, 2023

Pluckk, a brand specializing in direct-to-consumer fruits and vegetables, has successfully secured funding from Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan. The exact amount of funding remains undisclosed.

Additionally, the startup has enlisted the actor to serve as its brand ambassador.

Established in 2021 by Prateek Gupta, the startup asserts its provision of a diverse range of over 400 products spanning across 15+ categories. These categories encompass essentials, exotics, hydroponics, and various cuts and mixes. Presently operational in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Pune, the startup harbors intentions to extend its presence to additional regions in the forthcoming quarters.

Aside from Pluckk’s dedicated consumer-focused application, the brand also distributes its products through various marketplaces and quick commerce platforms. Notable platforms include Amazon, Swiggy, Dunzo, Zepto, and Reliance Signature Stores, enabling them to effectively reach their customer base. The direct-to-consumer brand proudly reports a remarkable sales figure of over 1 million products in the preceding quarter alone.

Commenting on the startup’s expansion goals, Gupta said, “Our vision is to build a pan India fresh food brand dedicated to service the needs of Indian families and homes with our network of over 1,000 farmers.”

Earlier this year, Pluckk obtained a seed funding of $5 million from Exponentia Ventures. This capital infusion is earmarked for purposes such as team augmentation, technological advancements, establishing a seamless farm-to-fork infrastructure, customer acquisition initiatives, and the strategic expansion into pivotal metropolitan areas.

During the month of May, it successfully completed the acquisition of KOOK, a DIY meal kit platform, for a total of $1.3 million in a combined transaction involving both cash and equity.

The emergence of actors supporting direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands has evolved into a fresh trend within the Indian startup landscape. In a similar vein, earlier this year, actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu directed her investments towards the D2C superfoods brand Nourish You, while Bollywood star Akshay Kumar, in collaboration with Virender Sehwag, extended their investments to Two Brothers Organic Farm.

Also Read: Two Brothers Organic Farms raises INR 14.5 Crore in Pre-series A with Akshay Kumar and Virender Sehwag coming in as investors

Last year, Shilpa Shetty and Nora Fatehi made investments into Fullife Healthcare and Curefoods respectively.

Sula Vineyards continues to lead: 24.4% growth in net profit for Q2

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August 10, 2023

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Sula Vineyards Limited, the largest wine producer in India, recorded a notable 24.4% surge in net profit, supported by a 21.6% growth in sales for the quarter ending in June.

Net revenues climbed to INR 118 crore from INR 97 crore in the preceding year, while net earnings reached INR 13.7 crore, marking an increase from the INR 11 crore profit reported a year earlier.

Dominating more than half of the domestic wine market share, the company stated that its emphasis on enhancing the premium aspect has yielded positive results, with its luxury and high-tier wines achieving an impressive growth of over 35% in the current quarter.

“I’m pleased to announce FY24 has kicked off on a great note with the company posting record Q1 revenue and profits. Our wine tourism has also shown double-digit growth, and I am particularly pleased with the impressive rise in the number of tastings that our team has conducted at the winery and around the country. The significant leap in tastings bodes very well for the future,” said CEO Rajeev Samant.

“We now have over 100 keys at our iconic Nashik resorts, a big jump from 67 keys in March’23. This 50% rise in the number of rooms will drive further growth in our Wine Tourism business in the coming years,” he added.

Additionally, the organization revealed the selection of Abhishek Kapoor as its Chief Financial Officer (CFO). With a background spanning more than twenty years in financial planning and accounting across diverse sectors including FMCG, Media, and Auto, garnered from roles in notable companies such as PepsiCo and Godrej Consumer, Abhishek Kapoor joins Sula after his tenure at Wagh Bakri Tea. During his time there, he played a pivotal role in propelling the company’s expansion and strengthening its market standing through astute financial strategies, according to the company’s statement.

Celebrate freedom and flavor: The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake unveils an exclusive millets bakery pastry menu for Independence Day!

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August 10, 2023

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Special Millets Bakery Pastry Menu — These creations artfully combine beloved flavors with nourishing ingredients, resulting in an exceptional culinary journey

In honor of India’s 77th Independence Day, The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake is thrilled to unveil a delectable and health-conscious Millets Bakery Pastry Special Menu. This exclusive culinary offering presents a range of mouthwatering creations designed to delight your taste buds while also encouraging a more health-conscious lifestyle.

Experience the Millets Bakery Pastry Special Menu, where innovation intertwines with tradition to present an array of meticulously crafted treats. These creations artfully combine beloved flavors with nourishing ingredients, resulting in an exceptional culinary journey:

Amarnath Nachani Almond Slice: Delight in a slice that harmonizes the nutty richness of Amarnath and Nachani with the elegance of almonds.

Buckwheat Multigrain Fresh Fruit Tart in Pastry: Indulge in a burst of fruity freshness atop a buckwheat multigrain pastry, a guilt-free pleasure.

Amarnath and Dry Fruit 70% Chocolate Bar: Luxuriate in a blend of Amarnath, dried fruits, and premium 70% chocolate for an exquisite treat.

64% Barley & Chocolate Cookies: Savor the unique marriage of barley and chocolate in decadent cookie form.

Nachani and Almond Tea Cake: Enjoy the subtle flavors of nachani and almond in a wholesome and scrumptious tea cake.

Quinoa Pumpkin Seed Chocolate Muffin: Energize yourself with a delectable muffin infused with quinoa and pumpkin seeds.

Ragi Basil Foccacia Caprese Sandwich: Elevate your sandwich experience with a Ragi Basil Foccacia adorned with fresh Caprese ingredients.

Chicken Caramelized Onion Peri Peri Quinoa Pearl Slider: Indulge in a protein-packed slider featuring tender chicken, caramelized onions, and zesty peri peri quinoa pearls.

Ragi, Avocado & Low-Fat Yogurt Smoothie: Rejuvenate with a nutritious blend of ragi, creamy avocado, and low-fat yogurt.

Banana, Oat & Almond Milk Smoothie: Kickstart your day with a satisfying and nourishing smoothie boasting banana, oat, and almond milk.

The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake emerges as a luxury hotel that delivers unparalleled comfort and wellness encounters to its visitors. Nestled in the heart of Mumbai, it offers a serene haven with captivating views of Powai Lake. With an unwavering commitment to fostering well-being, The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake consistently endeavors to present innovative and health-conscious culinary selections that cater to a wide array of palates.

Guests are invited to partake in the celebration of India’s Independence Day at The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake. The occasion is marked by the unveiling of the remarkable Millets Bakery Pastry Special Menu. This exclusive culinary journey invites indulgence in flavors that mirror the nation’s diverse culinary heritage while embracing the nourishing virtues of millets and other wholesome constituents.

For reservations and inquiries, please contact The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake:

Address: 2 & 3B, near Chinmayanand Ashram, Powai, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400087

Phone: 022 6692 7777

99 Pancakes joins forces with Amazon to bring unique snack delights to customers nationwide

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August 10, 2023

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99 Pancakes has partnered with Amazon to offer its unique FMCG products in the snack category, including Brownie Brittles, Chocolate Bars, and Almond Waffle Rolls, through the Amazon marketplace.

The selection of Brownie Brittle Chips will encompass a range of flavors such as Almond, Coffee, Pistachio, and Strawberry. As for the Chocolate bars, they will come in various options, including Caramelized Milk Bar, Milk Chocolate Bar, Dark Chocolate Bar, 100% Dark Chocolate Bar, and Keto Dark Chocolate Bar. Additionally, the Almond Waffle Roll will be presented in two distinctive variations: Orange Almond Roll and Almond Waffle Roll. These offerings are accessible for nationwide delivery.

Commenting on associating with Amazon, Vikesh Shah, Founder of 99 Pancakes, said, “With a wide range of products across categories, Amazon.in has become a destination for customers seeking quality and diversity. Having a successful e-commerce platform like Amazon.in will help us reach out to more consumers efficiently, which will help us meet their needs.”

In the near future, the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) will introduce a range of offerings on the Amazon marketplace, including Gift Hampers, Hot Chocolate Bombs, Stroop Waffles, and Pancake Premixes.

Recently, 99 Pancakes made a strategic move into the FMCG sector and introduced a line of snack products through its widespread retail outlets across India.

Distinguished as a prominent QSR chain in India, 99 Pancakes specializes in offering an array of pancake variations. Its inaugural establishment emerged in Kala Ghoda, Mumbai, in 2017. Within a mere six years, the brand has rapidly expanded its reach, establishing a footprint in 13 cities throughout India, boasting an impressive tally of over 40 outlets.

Fuelled by an ambitious growth strategy, the company is actively engaged in expansion initiatives, aiming to establish a presence in Northern India through both franchising and company-owned models. In the preceding year, specifically in May, the company secured a funding round amounting to INR 65 million from a consortium of angel investors. Currently, the company is actively seeking additional funding opportunities to support its ongoing ventures.

House of Pandora opens in Bandra: Elevating nightlife with cocktails, music and culinary delights

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August 10, 2023

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Rahul and Monish Rohra, accomplished experts in the hospitality industry and proprietors of Executive Enclave, Records Coffee, and Veranda located in Bandra, have unveiled their latest venture, the House of Pandora, affectionately referred to as HOP. This new establishment introduces an exceptional fusion of exquisite cocktails, dynamic events, music, and a diverse selection of Indian and global tapas.

HOP proudly houses Shelton Fernandes, awarded the title of Bartender of the Year UAE 2022, along with his team of skilled mixologists. The beverage menu takes inspiration from renowned venues such as Sips, Tayer Elementary, The Clumsies, and other esteemed establishments.

Pandora emerged as a pioneer in Mumbai’s vibrant nightlife landscape, showcasing a lineup of exceptionally skilled electronic and hip-hop performers. The stage welcomed renowned artists such as Aggy from Kayan, Hanumankind, Blot, Ankitrixx, Sickflip, Blurry Slur, Tansane, and a host of other talents. This venue became a central haven for both ardent music aficionados and spirited revelers, offering an unparalleled experience for all who sought outstanding music and an electrifying party atmosphere.

The Founder and Le Cordon Bleu graduate, Monish Rohra says, “Bandra is yearning for a high-energy neighbourhood bar, all while being affordable. And with the introduction of HOP, brace yourself to be blown away by the cocktails, atmosphere and menu.”

Grand Chennai’s J.Hind Restaurant unveils ‘En Vazhi, Thani Vazhi’ – A feast in honor of Rajinikanth

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August 10, 2023

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Grand Chennai, a shining example of exceptional hospitality situated in the heart of the city, is delighted to present ‘En Vazhi, Thani Vazhi – Rajinism 2.0’, an extraordinary gastronomic event honoring the legendary figure of Tamil cinema, the Superstar Rajinikanth.

The event was inaugurated on August 9th at J.Hind, in their premier dining venue at Grand Chennai. It is set to spotlight the splendid work of P. C. Balasubramanian, author of ‘Rajini’s Mantras’, in honouring Rajinikanth, accompanied by the attendance of notable influencers and esteemed Chennai dignitaries.

Nestled within Grand Chennai, J.Hind stands as a lavish culinary haven where the vibrancy of traditional Indian art seamlessly merges with the exquisite portrayal of Indian cuisine, presented in all its magnificence. This culinary destination presents a rich array of local delicacies, extending a warm invitation to guests to partake in an unforgettable gastronomic spectacle.

‘En Vazhi, Thani Vazhi – Rajinism 2.0’ at J.Hind is poised to offer an engaging gastronomic journey, meticulously curated by Grand Chennai’s seasoned culinary experts.

A selection of the festival’s standout features encompasses delectable creations like Basha Bhai Thandai, Muthu Cheese Bombs, Billa Meen Varuval, Kaalaiyan Kari Kuzhambu with Mooru Kali, Thillu Mullu Idiyappam, Manic Kulcha, and an array of other delights. These distinctive flavors extend an unmatched chance to submerge oneself in the realm of Rajinikanth, indulging in his iconic charisma while relishing an opulent spread for both lunch and dinner.

Attendees will be able to engage in enthralling exchanges with the distinguished author, capture enduring memories at the selfie booth, and immerse themselves in a tempting culinary escapade that pays homage to the richness of South Indian cuisine.

For More Information – ‘En Vazhi, Thani Vazhi’
Date of the Festival: Till 20th August 2023
Venue: J.Hind, Grand Chennai by GRT, T. Nagar, Chennai: 600017
Wallet Factor: INR 2000/- plus tax (Vegetarian) Per Person & INR 2300/- plus tax (Non Vegetarian) Per Person.
Cuisine: Modernist Indian
Timings: 12.30 PM (Noon) to 3.00 PM (Lunch) & 07.30 PM to11.00 PM (Dinner)
Contact Number for Reservations: +91 7550036789
Website: https://grthotels.com/chennai

Muttiah Muralitharan’s Ceylon Beverages to invest INR 440 Crore in can manufacturing plant in Dharwad

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August 10, 2023

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Sri Lankan beverages company Ceylon Beverage Can Pvt Ltd, promoted by Muttiah Muralitharan, is poised to establish a full-fledged plant in Mummigatti, near Dharwad in Karnataka, as reported by Deccan Herald (DH) on Thursday.

Having previously submitted a proposal to the state government, the company has expressed its intention to construct an “aluminium cans and beverages filling plant” in the specified region. The proposal outlined a requirement for 26 acres of land and an investment totaling INR 440 crore. The establishment of this plant is projected to create employment opportunities for approximately 500 individuals.

Presently, the Sri Lankan firm produces a variety of slim, sleek, and standard cans encompassing eight different sizes, all featuring a diverse selection of customer labels. The decision to establish a plant in India is a direct response to the substantial demand originating from this particular geographical area.

Back in May, Ceylon Beverage joined forces with Reliance Consumer Products to engage in the production of cans for Campa soft drink.

Founded in the year 2020, Ceylon Beverages has formed collaborations with numerous enterprises involved in the production of canned mineral water, energy drinks, soft drinks, and flavored milk. With a production rate exceeding 48,000 cans and 34,000 bottles per hour, the company’s facility boasts the capacity to fill up to 300 million cans annually.

As reported by DH, the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB) has allocated land for the project. Specifically, they have assigned 16.70 acres of land at plot no 157, 2.64 acres on plot no 156, and 6.15 acres on plot no 158. Additionally, necessary clearances have been granted, including the provision of 3,000 kVA power by Hescom and a daily supply of 20 lakh litres of water.

Muralitharan had made two prior visits to the industrial area, and there are also plans for him to visit again in order to commence the plant’s construction process.

Molson Coors diversifies further: Acquires Blue Run Spirits, expanding into bourbon and rye whiskey market

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August 10, 2023

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Molson Coors Beverage Company has entered into an agreement to purchase Blue Run Spirits, a producer of bourbon and rye whiskey.

This purchase marks another step in Molson Coors’ evolution into a comprehensive beverage enterprise. The acquisition empowers Blue Run Spirits with the essential resources to sustain its expansion. Currently accessible in 31 U.S. states, Blue Run is present in both retail and on-premise establishments across the country, as well as online.

Situated in Georgetown, Kentucky, Blue Run stands as a recent entrant to the whiskey industry, making its debut in the market in October 2020. This agreement signifies Molson Coors’ inaugural venture into the realm of spirits acquisitions.

According to Molson Coors, the acquisition of Blue Run boosts the company’s footprint in the spirits sector, “as it continues to evolve from its storied history as a beer company and premiumise its portfolio”.

Concurrently, Molson Coors has introduced Coors Spirits Co, an extension of its current spirits enterprise. This new entity will encompass Blue Run, Five Trail Blended American Whiskey, Barmen 1873 Bourbon, as well as upcoming innovative offerings. The agreement is projected to significantly increase the scale of Molson Coors’ spirits segment, surpassing twofold, and thus bolstering the company’s strategy of enhancing premium products.

Molson Coors’ chief commercial officer, Michelle St. Jacques, said, “Molson Coors has been on a journey to broaden beyond our beer roots and build powerful brands in growing categories, and Blue Run joining us is an exciting next step as we establish Coors Spirits Co. Blue Run has accomplished in three years what many brands hope to do in a generation and has done it at the luxury end of the whiskey category. Importantly, we are committed to maintaining Blue Run’s well-known quality, design and innovation as we continue to grow our spirits portfolio.”

The founders of Blue Run, namely Mike Montgomery, Tim Sparapani, Jesse McKnight, and Andy Brown, will continue their involvement with the brand.

In March 2023, Blue Run disclosed its plans to construct a distillery in Kentucky, USA. These plans will persist under the Molson Coors umbrella. Furthermore, Blue Run has slated the introduction of three new whiskey offerings for the late summer/autumn timeframe.

The details of the deal were not made public.

Resilient local competitors chip away market share from big brands in India’s FMCG landscape

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August 10, 2023

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Companies like Hindustan Unilever, Britannia, Parle, and Marico have observed a shift in their market dynamics. Smaller players are progressively encroaching upon their market share in sectors such as tea, detergents, oil, biscuits, and snacks. This trend has materialized as a result of moderated raw material prices, which have facilitated the entry of these smaller competitors into the market with products that are priced more affordably.

“In biscuits, we have been flattish, and the gainers of market share have been all local players. The local players, because of the pricing actions that they are taking in their small vicinity, have gained a little bit of market share,” Varun Berry, managing director at Britannia, told analysts.

“When the inflation is high, local players just walk away. And when things start to become more normalised, local players come into the market and start to operate large schemes for customers as well as consumers. So that’s what we are looking at currently.”

To illustrate, the rusk market is teeming with approximately 2,500 local competitors, whereas the snacking segment sees the dominance of over 3,000 smaller or regional players, encompassing almost 40% of the market share. According to companies, in times of deflation, these local adversaries tend to offer consumers greater value through additional quantity and demonstrate enhanced agility in swiftly introducing new products.

“There are thousands of local players in the snacking market especially in the extruded sub-segment. Since they are closer to the market and also understand local taste and flavour profile, they can be very agile in adapting to market conditions,” said Krishnarao Buddha, senior category head at Parle Products.

Over the years, local brands have steadily eroded the market shares of prominent consumer product companies, particularly in segments like soaps, detergents, hair oil, tea, and biscuits. Nevertheless, the disruptions caused by the pandemic and the subsequent inflation in crucial raw materials compelled numerous of these local brands to either cease operations altogether or significantly downsize their activities.

However, Hindustan Unilever (HUL) has noted a resurgence in the activity of small and regional players, a considerable number of whom had exited the market during the height of inflation. As an example, in the tea segment, these smaller players have experienced growth rates 1.6 times higher than their larger counterparts, while within the detergent bars category, regional participants have expanded at a rate three times faster.

“There are certain pockets of our portfolio, in mass segments and specific regions where we have seen a dip in market shares. However, our shares are ahead of what they were pre-inflation,” Ritesh Tiwari, chief financial officer at HUL, said during its earnings call.

Marico also reported a notable increase in activity within the bottom of the pyramid segment, primarily governed by smaller players. Market research agency Kantar examined 13 categories spanning personal care, home care, and food and beverages. Their analysis revealed that local enterprises, operating solely in one market, achieved a 13% growth during the year ending in April 2023, surpassing the 9% expansion observed by national brands in the same timeframe.

Nevertheless, regional labels with a presence in two to eight markets experienced a decline of 2%, whereas unbranded enterprises saw a more pronounced decrease of 5%.

AB InBev and Tilray seal $80 Million deal for eight beverage brands

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August 10, 2023

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Tilray, a cannabis-lifestyle and consumer packaged goods company, has recently forged a deal to purchase eight beer and beverage brands from Anheuser-Busch for a sum of $85 million.

Subject to the fulfillment of standard closing prerequisites, Tilray will proceed with the acquisition of Shock Top, Breckenridge Brewery, Blue Point Brewing Company, 10 Barrel Brewing Company, Redhook Brewery, Widmer Brothers Brewing, Square Mile Cider Company, and HiBall Energy from AB InBev. This transaction encompasses existing personnel, brewpubs, and breweries affiliated with these brands.

This acquisition brings four manufacturing sites situated across the United States – in Portland and Bend (Oregon), Littleton (Colorado), and Patchogue (New York) – under the Tilray umbrella. Additionally, it encompasses the transfer of ownership for eight brewpub establishments located in Seattle (Washington), two in Bend (Oregon), Portland (Oregon), Boise (Idaho), Littleton and Breckenridge (Colorado), and Patchogue (New York).

The deal is anticipated to broaden Tilray’s presence in the US beverage alcohol sector, elevating it from the ninth to the fifth spot as a leading craft beer enterprise in the country. In addition to its existing brands like SweetWater Brewing Company, Montauk Brewing Company, Alpine Beer Company, and Green Flash Brewing Company, Tilray will now also possess Breckenridge Distillery and Happy Flower CBD sparkling non-alcoholic cocktails, solidifying its diverse portfolio.

Established back in 2006, Shock Top, a classic Belgian-style wheat ale, stands out as the centerpiece within this collection. Its notable nationwide presence across all ABInBev divisions and its pivotal role in various advertising campaigns mark it as the most prominent element of this acquisition.

Breckenridge Brewery opened in 1990 and has grown into one of the most recognised craft breweries in the US with a focus on balanced, approachable and interesting beer.

Founded in 1998, Blue Point Brewing Company has grown into one of the largest breweries in New York, offering a line-up of easy-drinking and innovative craft beers.

10 Barrel Brewing Company was founded in 2006 and today boasts an award-winning team of brewers with four brewpub locations. 10 Barrel is said to be one of the most acclaimed breweries in the US and is consistently a top medal winner at the Oregon Beer Awards.

Redhook Brewery – founded in 1981 – is one of the nation’s original craft breweries and has an 8-barrel brewing system where consumers can taste the latest experiments.

Widmer Brothers Brewing, founded in 1984, is one of the largest craft breweries in the Pacific Northwest.

Square Mile Cider Company, which launched in 2013, offers ciders made with pure Pacific Northwest apples and lager yeast to create a crisp, clean and semi-dry hard cider.

HiBall Energy, which was discontinued by AB InBev in May of this year, was founded in 2005 as a clean energy seltzer made with zero sugar, zero calories and organic caffeine.

Irwin Simon, Chairman and CEO of Tilray Brands, said, “Leveraging the deep CPG expertise of Tilray’s leadership team and acquisition integration track record, we intend to drive both revenue and cost synergies, while significantly expanding national distribution to coveted markets across the US and internationally. In a matter of three years, Tilray has solidified its leadership position in the craft beer industry, and we fully intend to be that change agent that reinvigorates the sector.”

Tilray is projecting pro forma revenue of $250 million from the transaction. It says that the distribution relationships through the Anheuser-Busch system will strengthen its distribution footprint nationwide.

Ty Gilmore, President of US Beer at Tilray Brands, added, “With this transaction, our beer business is expected to triple in size from 4 million cases to 12 million cases annually. Looking ahead, we will further capitalise on the potential of these brands through product innovation, retailer partnerships and expanded distribution into key markets, including the Pacific Northwest and California.”

The purchase price will be paid in all cash and the transaction is expected to close in 2023.

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