This was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by Legal Director/Company Secretary, Mrs Abidemi Ademola, shortly after the terms of an agreement were signed, 11 June 2024.
The Guinness Nigeria Plc on Tuesday, announced that Tolaram will acquire Diageo's 58.02% shareholding in the firm, and enter into long-term license and royalty agreements for the continued production of the Guinness brand and its locally manufactured Diageo ready-to-drink and mainstream spirits brands.
This was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by Legal Director/Company Secretary, Mrs Abidemi Ademola, shortly after the terms of an agreement were signed, 11 June 2024.
Mrs Ademola explained that the transaction was expected to be completed during Fiscal 2025, subject to obtaining the requisite regulatory approvals in Nigeria.
She said, "Diageo remains deeply committed to Nigeria and will retain ownership of the Guinness brand, which will be licensed to Guinness Nigeria for the long-term, enabling the next phase of growth and development of Guinness Nigeria under the stewardship of Tolaram.
"With a five-decade presence in Africa, Tolaram is one of the largest consumer packaged goods companies on the continent and has forged joint venture partnerships with several leading consumer multinational companies.
"In partnership with Guinness Nigeria and Tolaram, Diageo will continue to drive the brand and marketing strategy for Guinness in Nigeria, to ensure Diageo's exceptional capabilities in brand building and innovation continue to drive long-term growth for Guinness in Nigeria."
Ademola, further stated that sequel to the completion of this transaction, "Guinness Nigeria will remain listed on the Nigerian Exchange Ltd. and, subject to regulatory approvals, Tolaram intends to launch a mandatory takeover offer in compliance with local law requirements.
She quoted the Board Chair of Guinness Nigeria, Omobola Johnson, saying the deal's announcement represents a significant opportunity for the next phase of growth for Guinness Nigeria.
According to him, this partnership brings together Tolaram's deep expertise in manufacturing and distribution, and Diageo's exceptional capabilities in brand building and Innovation. "I believe this is a winning combination which leaves Guinness Nigeria extremely well placed to drive further growth in this market."
Adebayo Alli, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Guinness Nigeria, said, "Today's announcement marks an exciting moment for Guinness Nigeria, our employees and our customers.
"I look forward to working alongside Tolaram, which is one of the largest and most respected consumer goods companies in Africa, and i am pleased to note Tolaram's alignment with Guinness Nigeria's values and its strong commitment to build on enduring and sustainable business."
Haresh Aswani, Managing Director, Tolaram Africa, said: "We are thrilled to welcome Guinness Nigeria, a company with such a rich legacy and strong consumer loyalty, into our ecosystem.
"This strategic move will expand our significant footprint in the Nigerian market and presents an opportunity to leverage our combined strengths to foster innovation and deliver immense value to our customers and shareholders across the nation."