FDBusiness.com

Finnish group Altia has completed the acquisition of Larsen Cognac from Remy Cointreau for an undisclosed price. Founded in 1926 by Jean Larsen, Larsen is one of the major producers of AOC Cognac with a unique range of premium products.

Cognac Larsen is known as the ‘Cognac of the Vikings’. Its core range of products includes a VS, VSOP and XO. The company also produces special edition releases, including Drakkar Viking Ship, which is presented in hand-painted porcelain or glass decanters.

This strong, widely recognized cognac brand with heritage reinforces Altia’s position in the Nordic alcoholic beverage business, complements Altia’s brand portfolio and enhances the group’s offering in the cognac category. Cognac Larsen has a significant market share in cognac category in the Nordic countries and the main destination of exports is Asia. 24 employees and production facilities in Cognac have been transferred to Altia.

Altia is the leading wine and spirits company in the Nordic and Baltic countries. Altia’s own brands such as Renault, 1-Enkelt, Blossa, Chill Out, Grönstedts, Koskenkorva, OP Anderson and Xanté have a strong market position and a long standing heritage.

Altia’s partner brands represent both local and international brands from all over the world, including Codorníu, Drostdy-Hof, Hardy’s, Jack Daniel’s, Bowmore, Nederburg, Ravenswood and Robert Mondavi. Altia has annual net sales of about Eur500 million and the total workforce is approximately 1,100.