Cider Company and Two Beers, a jointly-owned and operated Seattle craft brewery and cidery announced that they have sold to a French cooperative called Agrial. The sale is intended to provide the two companies with the capital for expansion.
“The merger and further partnership will help Seattle Cider Company and Two Beers Brewing grow through Agrial’s international distribution network, gaining access to developing craft beer and cider communities around the world,” the company press release says. “It will also allow for needed capital expansion projects for the growing brewery and the cidery. Additionally, the partnership provides Agrial with the opportunity to gain access to the American craft cider and beer market, as well as distribute a selection of its French cidre brand, Louis Raison, to the US.”
The brewery was started ten years ago in founder and CEO Joel VandenBrinkin’s 600-square-foot apartment. The cidery was added in 2013. The brands are distributed in several U.S. states as well as exported into international markets. The merger will allow Two Beers and Seattle Cider to further expand export to Europe and Asia.
Even in an era of rampant mergers and acquisitions, this merger is notable because it demonstrates the depth of interest in the craft brewing industry not only from other countries around the world, but also from cross-segment and non-beverage companies hoping to ride the success of the craft beer revolution.