British brewer and pub owner Marston's is to merge with Carlsberg's UK arm in a deal worth around £780 million, the companies have announced.
The move, which is the latest in a string of deals involving UK brewers, will create the Carlsberg Marston's Brewing Company.
Ralph Findlay, chief executive of Marston's, the McEwan's owner, said: "I am delighted to announce today's joint venture with Carlsberg UK.
"This new partnership acknowledges Marston's strategy, position and consistent outperformance against the UK beer market, realising value for shareholders today, whilst retaining an interest in the future upside of the combined entity."
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He said: "Marston's strong heritage, extensive distribution platform and established reputation for brewing and logistics excellence, together with Carlsberg UK's values, long history in beer, brand portfolio and scale, combine the best attributes of both to create a compelling beer business with an outstanding portfolio of global and local beer brands, proven brewing expertise, strong distribution network and wholesale opportunity."
Tomasz Blawat, managing director of Carlsberg UK, said: "We are excited to move into the next phase of our growth strategy.
"Our intent for the Carlsberg Marston's Brewing Company is for it to become a platform for growth for all of our customers and suppliers, offering a bigger beer portfolio of complementary international, national and regional brands.
"We believe the new business will deliver even more value for employees, customers and consumers, thereby creating greater future growth potential."
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