Spain: Mahou San Miguel acquires Spanish beer brand Brutus

Mahou San Miguel continues to grow in the craft beer sector with the acquisition of a 70% stake in Spanish beer brand Brutus, FoodBev reported on July 2.

Founded in 2015 in Barcelona, Brutus produces lager that is available in more than 350 points of sale. Mahou San Miguel said Brutus is a “modern and cosmopolitan” brand that has a “premium positioning”.

Brutus co-founder Jordi Calvet will lead the brand’s domestic and international strategy going forward, retaining creative and commercial independence.

Post-acquisition, the 5% ABV Brutus lager will be manufactured at Mahou San Miguel’s microbrewery in Alovera, Spain.

Peio Arbeloa, managing director of Mahou San Miguel Spain, said: “We believe that Brutus is the ideal brand to allow us to continue to grow among a significant consumer segment who demand different brands.

“This beer is a breath of fresh air for the category, with a unique personality that perfectly complements our portfolio and that will help us a lot in our premiumisation strategy”.

The announcement comes months after Mahou San Miguel bought a majority stake in US craft beer producer Avery Brewing.

Mahou San Miguel said the agreement fits within its vision to continue exploring international opportunities with partners who provide their knowledge of local consumers and markets.

In April, the company announced an investment €11 million in a collaborative space for craft breweries to share ideas and develop their beers.

Called Brewhub, the facility is located in Córdoba, Spain, and is open to all ‘nomad’ breweries that do not have their own plant or are looking to expand yet lack the necessary facilities to do so.

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