Ghana: Diageo completes Guinness Ghana Breweries disposal

Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC has formally announced the completion of a strategic transition in its ownership structure, with Castel Group acquiring an 80.4 percent majority stake from global beverage giant Diageo. The move marks a significant development in the domestic beverage industry, as Castel assumes operational leadership of one of the country’s most established brewers, The BF Online reported on July 3.

The transaction, which received regulatory approval earlier this year, positions Castel as controlling shareholder of Guinness Ghana while Diageo retains ownership of the Guinness brand and a portfolio of related products.

These will continue to be brewed and distributed in the country under long-term licencing and royalty agreements. In addition, Guinness Ghana will maintain distribution rights for Diageo’s international premium spirits under a separate commercial arrangement.

Castel’s acquisition reflects a broader ambition to strengthen its footprint across the continent, with Ghana now becoming its 22nd market in Africa. The French beverage group brings a deep regional distribution network and operational experience, which it plans to leverage in expanding Guinness Ghana’s market presence.

“This transition affirms Castel’s belief in Ghana’s long-term economic potential. We are committed to enhancing Guinness Ghana’s operations and building on its strong foundation,” Castel Group CEO Gregory Clerc said in a communique.

The transition coincides with a return to profitability for Guinness Ghana. The brewer posted a net profit of GH¢83.9million in the first half of the 2024/25 financial year, reversing a loss from the previous period. Revenues rose by 35.7 percent year-on-year to GH¢1.6billion, supported by improved sales volumes and tactical pricing initiatives. The company also reported a 37.7 percent drop in finance costs to GH¢17.5million, driven by a sharp reduction in short-term debt.

Analysts view the financial rebound as a positive signal of operational resilience, with Castel expected to build on these results through efficiency gains and strategic investments.

The company also assured stakeholders of continuity. All employees will remain with Guinness Ghana under existing terms and the business will continue to operate without disruption. The company also remains listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange, reinforcing its commitment to transparency and investor engagement.Herbal medicine conference

Guinness Ghana Breweries began the year with a share price of GH¢5.5 and has since gained 10 percent on that price valuation to sit at GH¢6.05 at the beginning of July 2025.

Castel has pledged to uphold high standards of quality and maintain strong relationships with consumers, suppliers and distributors. Early indications suggest the group may pursue operational efficiencies through packaging reforms and targetted investment in key categories such as ready-to-drink beverages.

Industry analysts see the transaction as a significant signal of confidence in Ghana’s consumer market and industrial potential. Castel’s long-term commitment to manufacturing and local capacity development aligns with government’s ongoing efforts to attract foreign direct investment into the economy’s productive sectors.