Tuatara Brewing Company has been snapped by Heineken-owned DB Breweries this week for an undisclosed sum.
DB will not be mess with Tuatara’s winning formula, managing director Andy Routley confirmed.
“Craft beer is an exciting segment of the Kiwi beer market,” said Routley. “And Tuatara is the champion of Kiwi craft breweries.
“We are excited by Tuatara for three reasons. Firstly, Carl [Vasta] and his team are passionate about making great beer and their customers are equally passionate about enjoying it. Secondly, they have a focus on quality and innovation. And thirdly, we believe that the beers they produce have all the characteristics for their continued success in the wider local and global marketplace. We’ll leave it to Tuatara to make great beer. We’ll help get it to more people.”
The beer manufacturer will continue production from the same premises on the Kapiti Coast and the pilot brewery — The Third Eye, in Wellington.
Tuatara founder and master brewer Vasta said he continues to be passionate about the New Zealand craft beer industry and is committed to being part of Tuatara and its future growth.
“We’re changing the shareholding, we’re not changing the recipe. Brewing beer and talking about beer is my passion. With the support of my family, we have been able to grow Tuatara into a successful business,” said Vasta.
“In order to take things to the next level we need assistance. That’s why we’ve teamed up with DB. Now, I intend to get back to the brewing and step out of the business end.”
Simone Vasta will continue on her role as logistics manager and their son, Adam Vasta, an accomplished brewer in his own right, will also stay at the Kapiti Coast brewery to ensure continuity and quality beer.
