Diageo to sell Windsor business to South Korean private equity group

Diageo said it has reached an agreement to sell its Windsor business, including the W series, to the Bayside Private Equity and Metis Private Equity consortium, a South Korean-based private equity group, for an aggregate consideration of KRW 200 billion (approximately £124 million).

The drinks giant added that the transaction will have no material impact on earnings per share in its 2022 fiscal. The transaction is expected to be completed in the next fiscal.

As part of the agreement, Diageo will supply Scotch whisky to Bayside/Metis under a 10-year supply agreement.

“This transaction marks the next chapter for Diageo Korea. We remain fully committed to the market and further developing our international spirits and beer business, which is being driven by premiumisation and consumer interest in categories like international whisky,” Sam Fischer, President of Asia Pacific and Global Travel for Diageo said.

“We take a disciplined approach to capital allocation and this sale is very much in line with our track-record of active portfolio management. We are grateful to our Diageo Korea employees for all their dedication and support of the Windsor business and we will work with them, the Union, our valued customers and partners, and Bayside/Metis to ensure a smooth transition.”

Bum Jun Kim, chief executive of Bayside Private Equity for Bayside/Metis, said: “Windsor is an important addition to our investment portfolio and allows us to participate in the dynamic Korean beverage alcohol market. We are confident that we can build on the innovation of Windsor and unlock further potential. We will work closely with Diageo to ensure a smooth transition over the next few months.”