SABMiller has acquired Rwenzori, the leading bottled water group in Uganda, as part of its plan to expand beverage sales in Africa.

A spokesperson for the brewer of Miller Genuine Draft and Peroni Nastro Azzurro confirmed the deal to just-drinks today (16 February). Financial details were not disclosed.

The move is part of SABMiller’s strategy to build a total beverage business, including beer, soft drinks and bottled water, in Africa.

The group said in a briefing late last year that it expects double digit growth from water in Africa in the next ten years.

Rwenzori, which has a 70% share of the Ugandan bottled water market on annual sales of US$18m, is complementary to SABMiller’s beer business in the country, the spokesperson said.

In the last year, SABMiller has acquired two water businesses in Ghana and Ethiopia and a non-alcoholic maize drink in Zambia.

Separately, multinational brewers are investing in Africa’s potential as a major beer market.
 
SABMiller announced in December 2009 that it would spend US$16m to build a malt facility in Uganda.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

The UK-listed group is set to have opened four new breweries across Africa – in Southern Sudan, Tanzania, Mozambique and Angola – by the end of its current fiscal year. The brewer is spending US$370m on capital projects this year, although this will fall to US$200m next year.

Subscribe to Just Drinks for just £1 for 1 month

Stay ahead with unbiased news, expert commentary, and in-depth features on global topics.

As a trusted provider of data and insights, Just Drinks collaborates closely with industry leaders and professionals to offer unique thought leadership and analysis. Gain a deeper understanding of the drinks industry’s trajectory and the priorities shaping the profession.

What’s included in your subscription:
  • Personalized Access: Secure login to Just Drinks
  • Industry News & Expert Commentary: Timely updates and exclusive C-level interviews.
  • Case Studies & Deep Dives: Real-world applications and in-depth analyses.
  • Exclusive Subscriber Newsletter: Weekly top features, plus a new thematic report and webinar.

Ready to stay informed?

Subscribe to unlock exclusive content.

Already a subscriber? Sign in to access your account.

Pleasecomplete this form to request more information, and a representative will be in touch shortly.