Damm UK, the British subsidiary of Spanish brewing giant S.A. Damm, which owns the popular Estrella brand, is reportedly in the process of acquiring Greene King's well-known Old Speckled Hen beer brand. The deal will encompass the entire portfolio of Old Speckled Hen beers, marking a notable expansion for the Barcelona-based brewer within the competitive UK market.
Old Speckled Hen holds a distinctive place in British brewing history. It was first brewed in 1979 by the Morland Brewery in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the MG car factory located in the town. The name itself is a playful nod to a paint-splattered MG car that resided at the factory, often referred to as 'The Old Speckled 'Un'. Greene King acquired the brand as part of its takeover of Morland in 1999.
This strategic move by Damm UK underscores a broader trend of international brewers seeking to strengthen their presence in the UK. The acquisition of an established and well-regarded British ale brand like Old Speckled Hen provides Damm UK with immediate access to a new segment of the market, diversifying its offering beyond its core lager brands such as Estrella Damm.
For Greene King, one of the UK's largest pub retailers and brewers, the divestment of Old Speckled Hen may signal a strategic realignment or a focus on other core brands within its extensive portfolio. While Old Speckled Hen is a popular ale, Greene King maintains a vast array of owned brands and a significant pub estate across the country.
The transaction is expected to be finalised in due course, subject to any necessary regulatory approvals. The integration of Old Speckled Hen into Damm UK's operations will likely involve decisions regarding production, distribution, and marketing strategies for the brand moving forward. Consumers may see changes in availability or promotional activities as the ownership transition takes effect.