Lion Nathan applies to acquire Independent Liquor

Media Release

Issued 3 July 2006/148

Lion Nathan applies for clearance to acquire Independent Liquor

The Commission has received an application from Lion Nathan Limited seeking clearance to acquire up to 100% of the shares and/or assets of Independent Liquor (NZ) Limited.

Lion Nathan manufactures and distributes a range of alcoholic beverages in both Australia and New Zealand. Lion Nathan subsidiaries include: New Zealand Breweries, which primarily brews beer; and Lion Nathan Wines and Spirits, which primarily distributes wine, spirits and ready-to-drink (RTD) spirit brands under licensing agreements. Lion Nathan also operates the ‘Liquor King’ chain of retail stores.

Independent Liquor also supplies a range of alcoholic beverages. Independent Liquor primarily manufactures a range of RTD spirit brands such as Purple Goanna, KGB, Woodstock Bourbon and Cola, and the Vodka Cruiser range. Independent also supplies a number of beer, wine and spirit brands.

In considering the application, the Commission’s role is to determine whether the acquisition has the effect of substantially lessening competition in a market.

A public version of the application will shortly be available on the Commission’s website www.comcom.govt.nz under Public Registers.

Commission media releases can be viewed on its web site www.comcom.govt.nz

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