DMH Stallard advises on ‘The Drinks Company’ sale

Based in Horsham, The Drinks Company was founded in 1996 and established itself as an exclusive importer and distributor of award-winning spirits and specialties to the UK, Republic of Ireland, Channel Islands, and the travel retail sector.

Distributing a wide range of products, The Drinks Company is best known for its distribution of the Sierra Tequila brand.

Justine Tocher, a partner in the corporate team at DMH Stallard, led the deal, advising Bill Oddy and Denise McArdle and the selling shareholder company M&O Holdings Limited. She said:

“The Drinks Company is a hugely successful business that has become a leading UK importer and distributor in the alcoholic beverage market. The team at DMH were delighted to work with Bill and Denise and play a part in such a terrific success story for themselves and the wider business community in West Sussex.”

Founded in 1884, the acquirer, Stocks Spirits Group has grown to become one of the largest alcoholic beverage companies in Europe.

The DMH Stallard team was led by Justine Tocher supported by Sarah Quinnell (Corporate), Debbie Venn and Georgie Swift (Commercial), William Walsh (Employment), Nitzan Cohen (Tax) and Jonathan Crook (Property). Corporate finance services were provided by Michael Pay of EMC Corporate Finance. Tax/financial due diligence advice was provided by Sarah Ediss of Kreston Reeves. Gateley Legal, PWC and Rob Curteis of Paxton & Pexton acted for the Stocks Spirit Group.