Inn Express acquires rival drinks distributor Euroboozer in pre-pack deal

Drinks wholesaler Inn Express has bought the core assets of Hertfordshire-based rival Euroboozer for an undisclosed sum.

Euroboozer, which supplies beer brands including Stiegl, Schremser, Magic Rock and Tiny Rebel to wholesalers and high-end hospitality operators, appointed administrators Moorfields Advisory on 25 June.

The business has faced ongoing financial challenges, and its infrastructure and investment has struggled to keep up with its growth since 2023, according to administrators.

These issues were exacerbated by the various operational issues and crises that arose following the Brexit referendum and the pandemic.

Immediately following Moorfields’ appointment, it completed the sale of the business and assets to Inn Express, securing all staff jobs and ensuring continued service to customers and suppliers.

Joint administrator Andy Pear said: “We are pleased to have secured a going concern sale that preserves key elements of the business and delivers the best available outcome for creditors. The swift completion of the transaction has allowed for a smooth transition with minimal impact on operations.”

Euroboozer’s director Martyn Railton said its aim was to “protect jobs and maintain future business for customers and suppliers”.

He added: “With Inn Express at the helm, I know all of these aspects will be extremely well looked after for many years to come. This is not a process that anyone has enjoyed but we’re happy that all jobs have been protected and there will be further investment in people, infrastructure and product range to maintain and further elevate service levels to all involved.”

Inn Express said it plans to build on Euroboozer’s beer portfolio, not change it. “Backed by Inn Express’s infrastructure, Euroboozer customers will now benefit from broader availability and a wider spectrum of dedicated trade support,” the group said.

Warwickshire-headquartered Inn Express distributes a range of drinks across the beer, wine, cider, spirits, low and no, soft drinks and tea and coffee sectors.

It supplies brands including Adnams, Tom Holland’s Bero, Stella Artois, Veuve Clicquot, Glenfiddich, San Pellegrino and Brew Tea Co.

Inn Express director Richard Hall said the deal would broaden the group’s nationwide reach and enhance its existing service around the country.