Lion Australia has bought UK craft brewer Magic Rock Brewing Company and has outlined plans to help the Yorkshire-based company grow its export footprint.
Craft brewer Magic Rock employs 45 people currently and produce a range of craft beers currently available across the UK.
Kirin-owned Lion said it will help implement Magic Rocks plans to “continue to meet rising demand in the domestic market, building growth in pubs and supermarkets” as well as expanding its export market.
Magic Rock currently exports to more than 25 countries worldwide and over time it says it will seek opportunities to grow further outside of the UK with the assistance of Lion.
“With the support of the beer community, in eight years Magic Rock has become one of the UK’s leading craft brewers, distributing across the UK, as well as internationally,” Magic Rock co-founder and managing director Richard Burhouse said.
“The best way for us to build on this legacy over the long term is to introduce Magic Rock beers to a much wider audience. We’re excited to be joining one of the world’s best brewing experts under the shared promise to keep making great beer, on a bigger scale, through their knowledge, expertise and investment.”
Lion Global Markets managing director Matt Tapper said the company was excited to have the opportunity to help the Magic Rock team build on its success.
“Magic Rock has been one of the pioneers in the UK craft beer scene and has built a loyal following due to its relentless pursuit of authenticity and quality,” Tapper said.
“Lion has a long and proud history in craft beer in Australia and New Zealand and we see some great opportunities to help put Magic Rock into the hands of more beer lovers.”
Lion’s craft brewers have also created some of Australia and New Zealand’s craft beer brands such as Furphy, James Squire and Kosciuszko and the company has a growing portfolio in the UK.
