Mezzan

Kuwaiti business conglomerate Mezzan Holding is set to acquire Unitra Mets Group (UMG), a UAE-based distributor of Red Bull energy drink, from Abu Dhabi-based Invest AD and other shareholders for an undisclosed amount.

The acquisition is part of the growing demand for consumer-related investments in the Gulf Arab region, and follows the recent acquisition of Saudi Arabia-based beverage firm Aujan Industries by Coca-Cola for $980m in 2011 to meet the growing demand for non-alcoholic drinks in the region.

UMG mainly involves in distribution of fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) across the UAE through its distribution hubs in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras El Khiamah and Al Ain.

The company’s distribution solutions are offered to international and regional manufacturers, who look to promote their brands and products through all retail selling channels such as groceries, retail and convenience stores in the region.

The distributor also covers all non-traditional channels such as petrol stations, hotels, restaurants and schools.

In addition to Red Bull energy drink, UMG also distributes other non-alcoholic beverage brands in the UAE such as San Pellegrino juice and sparkling water, iced coffee iCafe, isotonic sports drink 100 Plus, non-alcoholic malt beverage Moussy, fruit juice Cool Sun, natural drinking water Nada, and others.

Invest AD purchased a majority stake in UMG in 2008 from its family shareholders, reported Reuters.

Mezzan Holding was advised by NBK Capital and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher on the transaction, while Invest AD was advised by Dubai-based deNovo Corporate Advisors and Clifford Chance.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Image: Unitra Mets Group distributes Red Bull energy drink in UAE. Photo courtesy of Unitra International and Middle East Trading Store.