European beverage giant Refresco has expanded its global footprint by acquiring Aussie soft drinks producer Tru Blu. The transaction is still subject to regulatory approval, and financial terms were not disclosed.
Tru Blu Beverages is a privately-owned, Sydney-based manufacturer of non-alcoholic beverages.
The Rotterdam-based company offers an extensive range of product and packaging combinations, from juices to carbonated soft drinks and mineral waters in cartons, PET, Aseptic PET, cans and glass. Several brands under its belt include Aquajuice, Calypso, Carters, Cherry good, Del Monte, Libby and Just Juice.
“Today’s announcement is a testament to our proven buy-and-build strategy,” said Hans Roelofs, CEO at Refresco.
“The acquisition of Tru Blu Beverages in Australia creates a new platform for Refresco, in line with our strategic promise to expand into a third continent.”
Refresco said Tru Blu Beverages fits right into its business model and will enable the soft drink company to accelerate efforts to minimise the environmental impact of its manufacturing processes, transport, and packaging.
Peter Brooks, CEO of Tru Blu beverages, added that by joining Refresco, its entire supply chain benefits from the global company’s broader capabilities. At the same time, it gives the beverage giant a “solid entrance” into the Australian market with its blue-chip customer base.
“We are proud to become part of the Refresco family, with its strong entrepreneurial spirit and passion for delivering quality service to its customers,” said Brooks.
“We look forward to building an even stronger platform together.”
