Shandy Shack Press Image

Andy Morris-Jinks MD SHS Drinks (centre) with Shandy Shack co-founders Tom Stevens (l) and Ed Stapleton

SHS Drinks has acquired mid-strength alcohol brand Shandy Shack for an undisclosed sum.

Founded in 2018, Shandy Shack makes a four-strong range of shandies from a craft beer base. Its gluten-free, vegan-friendly drinks are between 2%-3% abv and stocked in Sainsbury’s, as well as specialist retailers and on Amazon.

Shandy Shack will join brands including WKD, Shloer, Bottlegreen, Rocks and Merrydown in SHS Group’s drinks roster. It will continue to be led by co-founders Ed Stapleton and Tom Stevens following the sale.

SHS Group would “turbocharge Shandy Shack’s growth, helping it to better reach the 40% of adults seeking to moderate their alcohol consumption,” said the Belfast-headquartered supplier.

“The mid-strength abv market is seeing rapid growth as consumers seek options for low-tempo, relaxed socialising,” said Andy Morris-Jinks, managing director of SHS Drinks. “Shandy Shack’s innovative and award-winning product range aligns perfectly with our vision for broadening our consumer base and tapping into emerging market trends.”

Ed Stapleton, co-founder of Shandy Shack, added: “SHS Drinks are a brilliant organisation that share our values and vision for the brand. They recognised the importance of introducing a compelling mid-strength offering to enhance their diverse and dynamic portfolio.

“This partnership will provide unparalleled opportunities to leverage their expertise, resources and support to expand our brand’s reach.”

The deal is SHS Group’s first acquisition in drinks since the purchase of squash maker Rocks Drinks in 2018.