Heineken recently announced that it has entered into an implementation agreement with Distell Group Holdings Limited, Namibia Breweries Limited and Ohlthaver & List Group of Companies to integrate their respective and relevant businesses in Southern Africa into one enlarged company.

At completion, the company will contribute these acquired assets plus its 75% directly owned shareholding in HSA and certain other fully owned export operations in Africa, into an unlisted public holding company (referred to as Newco). Heineken will own a minimum of 65% of Newco, with the remainder held by Distell shareholders who elect to reinvest.

Heineken’s CEO and Chairman of the Executive Board Dolf van den Brink said:
“We are very excited to bring together three strong businesses to create a regional beverage champion, perfectly positioned to capture significant growth opportunities in Southern Africa.
Distell is a highly regarded, resilient business with leading brands, a talented workforce and a strong track record of innovation and growth in Africa. With NBL, there are exciting opportunities to expand premium beer and cider in Namibia and grow the iconic Windhoek brand beyond its home market. Together we will be able to better serve our consumers and customers through a unique combination of multi-category leading brands and a strengthened route-to-market. The businesses share common values derived from their family heritage, long-term perspectives, entrepreneurial spirit, and care for people and planet.
We have successfully built our business in Africa over 100 years. Today’s announcement is a vote of confidence in the long-term prospects of South Africa and Namibia and we commit to being a strong partner for growth and to make a positive impact in the communities in which we operate.”