Drinks firm owner takes controlling stake in wholesaler
A DRINKS industry entrepreneur plans to take on-trade wholesaler Ooberstock to “the next level” after taking a controlling interest in the business.
Stephen Brogan, co-founder of drinks company Drinks 21, described the online wholesaler’s business model as “unique”, and said his investment would give the firm “instant national on-trade capabilities without having to invest heavily in a transport infrastructure and storage facilities”.
I am delighted to be driving the business to the next level and providing innovation.
Drinks 21 has been a category partner to Ooberstock for wines and Champagnes since 2012.
“Having traded with our 1000th independent free-trade customer after just nine months of launching I am delighted to be driving this business to the next level and providing high innovation and ‘smarter solutions’ to the traditional wholesale marketplace,” he said.
Ooberstock was founded by former Coca-Cola Enterprises (CCE) sales and marketing executive Arran Heal in October 2012.
Heal, who will stay on at the business as managing director, said Ooberstock offers a “unique service” in the wholesale marketplace.
“The Ooberstock business has an unparalleled delivery network offering customers selected delivery days, a range of payment options and, most importantly, a great range of products offering fantastic value,” he said.
