Campari Expands in Asia Pacific
Italian drinks group Gruppo Campari has agreed to pay A$20 million (Eur14.2 million) to acquire Copack Beverage, a leading contract beverage packer in Australia. Copack specialises in can and glass packaging and is currently used by Gruppo Campari for its ready-to-drink sourcing.
Copack was established in Melbourne in 2007. Since 2010 it has been the supplier for Campari’s Wild Turkey ready-to-drink products in Australia. Copack’s innovation capabilities have supported the introduction of a number of successful brands in Australia, including American Honey ready-to-drink launched by Gruppo Campari in 2012. Moreover, Copack supports the production and supply of a number of third party reputable brands in the Australian market. With its established plant and customer base, Copack is well-positioned to continue to expand volumes and profitability.
Following three years of operation in Australia, Gruppo Campari has achieved a scale that makes the in-sourcing of manufacturing facilities for the region viable. The acquisition of Copack was deemed by the group as the preferred option compared to the cost of a possiblegreenfieldinvestment.
The acquisition further strengthens the company’s international supply chain capabilities, whilst adding flexibility to the local organisation, heightening quality control and further supporting innovation capabilities. Moreover, it provides the group with an opportunity to support the company’s future growth in the Asia-Pacific region.
It is expected that the acquisition will be completed in the third quarter of 2013. The expected payback period of the Copack acquisition is approximately 6 years.
In 2012 the Australian market accounted for 6.1% of Gruppo Campari’s net sales. Gruppo Campari established its own marketing and sales organisation in Australia in 2010 following the 2009 Wild Turkey purchase, the largest acquisition completed by the group.