Global beverages business Refresco Group B.V. has bought Australian beverage manufacturer Tru Blu Beverages, saying the acquisition is the start of its future footprint in the region. The sale price is undisclosed and the deal subject to regulatory approval.
Tru Blu Beverages produces non-alcoholic drinks across fruit juice and drink, cordial, soft drinks, sparkling mineral water, still water, and energy drinks. Its brands include Waterfords, Pub Squash, LA Ice Cola, P&N, and Apple Grove.
It has three manufacturing sites in Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth, warehousing in all capital cities, and contract manufacturing capabilities.
Tru Blu CEO Peter Brooks said the company gave Refresco a “solid entrance into the Australian market”.
Refresco said the acquisition delivered on its strategic promise to expand into a third continent.
Refresco CEO Hans Roelofs said, “We now operate over 70 manufacturing sites globally, with just about half of those located across North America and the rest throughout Europe, offering a full range of beverage solutions to a broad customer base.
“Acquiring Tru Blu Beverages further strengthens our position as beverage solutions provider to branded customers and leading retailers globally and provides new opportunities for further growth. The three strategically located manufacturing sites are the starting point for our future footprint in the region.”
The company said the new local footprint would better serve existing and new customers and that it would “continue to make selective investments and acquisitions, targeting value accretive opportunities.”
