Southampton: Ringwood Brewery sold to Marston's

Southampton accountants and business advisers BDO Stoy Hayward and solicitors Bond Pearce have overseen the sale of Ringwood Brewery to Marston’s plc.

The acquisition forms part of Marston’s strategy of developing a portfolio of well-established, premium regional beer brands to complement the core Marston’s range, led by Pedigree.

Marston’s is committed to the future of the acquired brewery, which will continue to brew all Ringwood brands including the award-winning beers such as Ringwood Best Bitter, Old Thumper, and Fortyniner. Ringwood also owns seven high quality, freehold, traditional pubs which will be incorporated into the Marston’s Pub Company estate.

Paul Russell, corporate finance partner at BDO Stoy Hayward, said: “The Ringwood shareholders were keen to ensure that the business was passed to a buyer who would value and respect the integrity of the brand they had established over many years. I am delighted that we have been able to assist them in achieving this ambition in advising on the transaction with Marston’s, for whom this represents a sound strategic move.”

Stephen Pierce of Bond Pearce commented: “It was a pleasure to work with the Ringwood shareholders. The Ringwood brand is an excellent addition to the Marston’s portfolio.”

Ringwood Brewery’s managing director, David Welsh, added: “I was extremely pleased with the service I received from both Bond Pearce and BDO Stoy Hayward, who showed a strong understanding of our business and the issues that needed consideration to ensure an efficient and timely sale process. I would like to thank all those who assisted in the sale of the business along with the staff and customers of Ringwood who have contributed so much over the years.”

Marston’s has been producing beers since 1834, and manages over 2,000 pubs in more than 20 counties across England and Wales, from busy town and city pubs to village pubs in small communities. It operates four breweries, and is the largest brewer of cask beer in Britain, producing leading UK ale brands such as Marston’s Pedigree, Jennings, Banks’s Bitter, Banks’s Original, and Mansfield Bitter.