Whyte & Mackay to be Sold For £430 Million
United Spirits, the largest spirits producer in India, is selling its Scotch whisky business, Whyte & Mackay, to Philippines-based Emperador for £430 million. The disposal is an attempt to satisfy regulatory concerns regarding Diageo’s acquisition of a controlling stake in United Spirits.
Last November, the Office of Fair Trading in the UK ruled that Diageo’s $2 billion takeover of United Spirits might lead to reduced competition in the supply of blended whisky to retailers.
Emperador, which produces brandy and other spirits, will significantly expand its portfolio with the addition of Whyte & Mackay brands including The Dalmore, Isle of Jura, Glayva, Fettercairn, Vladivar vodka and Whyte & Mackay blended Scotch.
“Whyte and Mackay is a prized asset with excellent growth opportunity and its acquisition is in line with our plans to enhance our product portfolio,” says Andrew Tan, Chairman of Emperador.
Emperador will also benefit from gaining access to Whyte & Mackays international distribution network in more than 50 countries.
United Spirits acquired Whyte & Mackay for £595 million in 2007.
