The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) on Wednesday launched an inquiry into the anticipated acquisition of The Famous Grouse, Naked Malt and affiliated brands by William Grant & Sons Group.
Edrington and William Grant & Sons reached an agreement for the sale of the brands in September last year. William Grant & Sons will buy the brands from The 1887 Company, a subsidiary of Edrington.
Founded in 1896 in Perthshire, Scotland, The Famous Grouse is a much-loved blended whisky brand that would add to William Grant & Sons’ portfolio of renowned whiskies and spirits, that includes Glenfiddich, Grant's, The Balvenie, and Hendrick's Gin, among others.
Edrington, which owns The Macallan, Highland Park and The Glenrothes single malts, said the deal marks the next stage of the company’s strategy to focus on the growth opportunities in the ultra-premium spirits category.
The CMA has invited comments on the transaction from any interested party and a decision on its initial investigation is expected by 27 March.
