Craft beer group Keystone has further added to its portfolio, striking a deal with Vertical Drinks for the North Brewing Co brand.
The deal, completed for an undisclosed sum, will see ownership of the North brand transfer to Keystone. Production, however, will remain at North’s Springwell brewery, which is owned by Vertical Drinks owner Kirkstall Brewery.
There would be no job losses as a result of the transfer of ownership, Keystone said.
“We are delighted the North Brewing brand, and beers will join the Keystone family,” said Keystone Brewing Group CEO Mark Williams. “It is a true icon with a compelling reputation for innovation and high-quality beers, and we see enormous potential to build on its success to date, growing it nationally while preserving its original Yorkshire identity.”
Keystone was understood to be interested in acquiring North Brewing last January, prior to the brewery’s pre-pack sale to Vertical Drinks.
Willams added that Kirkstall Brewery owner Steve Holt would be joining Keystone as “a special advisor” to the group.
“These are exciting times for Keystone, and we’re not finished yet,” he added.
It comes after Keystone last week struck a deal to acquire both the Fourpure and Magic Rock brands from In Good Company.
Keystone’s portfolio also includes Black Sheep, Brew By Numbers, Purity Brewing, Big Drop, Wolf Pack and Maison Sassy cider.
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