SABMiller buys into UK craft beer scene

EXCLUSIVE: Legitimate photo of the actual contract.

Earlier this year it was the Pacific Northwest, and then there was speculation about Florida, and whispers throughout the industry, and now Big Beer has acquired its next craft brewer — but all the way across the Atlantic.

SABMiller, not to be left behind by AB InBev’s acquisition spree, has found its next brand in the U.K. craft beer market by way of Meantime Brewing Co. The deal will be completed in June.

From Food Magazine:

SABMiller plans to grow sales of Meantime Brewing Company’s beers nationally and explore export opportunities in its European markets under the continued leadership of Nick Miller, Meantime CEO.

Meantime Brewing Company was established in 1999 by Brew Master, Alastair Hook, with a brewery in Greenwich, London. The business has since created a successful range of British and international beer styles.

Sue Clark, Managing Director, SABMiller Europe, said, “Meantime has been at the forefront of the modern craft beer movement in the UK and brews an outstanding range of beers across a variety of styles. At SABMiller we love local variety, and carefully nurture our 200 local and heritage beers. Meantime, born in a city with a rich beer heritage, will be a special new addition to the SABMiller family.”

Business at Meantime Brewing Co. has been booming lately — the company grew sales volume by 58% in 2014.