Leading spirits company Schwarze und Schlichte will take over Hamburg Distilling Company on 1 November. This strategic acquisition underscores the commitment of the German family business to consolidate its position in the premium spirits market and expand its brand portfolio.
Hamburg Distilling Company is known for its hip spirits, particularly Knut Hansen Dry Gin and Ron Piet, which have a distinctive flavour profile and eye-catching design.
Schwarze und Schlichte Managing Director Dirk Hasenbein told The Moodie Davitt Report, “This acquisition marks another step in our company’s development. We will preserve the premium quality and identity of these brands while opening up new growth opportunities.”
Knut Hansen Dry Gin is already listed with Gebr. Heinemann at certain airports, and Schwarze und Schlichte is planning to increase its presence and investment in the travel retail channel.
Hamburg Distilling Company Founders Martin Spieker and Kaspar Hagedorn will remain onboard in an advisory capacity. All employees of the Hamburg Distilling Company will become part of the corporate structure of Schwarze und Schlichte.
This is to ensure that customers and partners can continue to rely on the quality and brand identity of Knut Hansen and Ron Piet.
“We are leaving our great brands and our highly motivated team in good hands. We are firmly convinced that Schwarze und Schlichte is the right partner to lead Knut Hansen and Ron Piet into a continued successful future,” said Spieker.
Hagedorn added: “Of course it is not easy for us to hand over the management of the company. But the step of handing the brands over at this time is the right one for a consistent continuation of the dynamic success story.” ✈
