Duvel Moortgat acquires London-based kombucha maker

Flemish brewer, Duvel Moortgat, has acquired a majority stake in London-based Kombucha brand.

Duvel Moortgat now owns 60% of the JARR Kombucha business, according to a recent statement. 

Launched in 2015, JARR Kombucha is a fermented tea maker based in Hackney Wick, London. 

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The purchase will help JARR to “significantly increase production” as it will have access to Duvel’s UK distribution network.

Following the deal, JARR will continue to be operated by founders Adam Vanni, Tom and Jess Seaton, and Neil Hinchley.

The acquisition highlights how many beverage firms are turning to non-alcoholic fast-growth drinks such as kombucha as consumers become more health-conscious. 

In June, Molson Coors announced the acquisition of California’s clearly Kombucha, in a bid to tap into the fermented beverage market.

In September, the Coca-Cola Company added its first line of kombucha through the acquisition of Organic & Raw Trading Co., which makes the MOJO brand of naturally fermented kombucha.