Coca-Cola HBC announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Coca-Cola HBC Northern Ireland Limited, has reached an agreement to acquire 100% of BDS Vending Solutions Ltd.
BDS Vending, founded in 1993, is a well-established food and drink vending services business in Ireland, with a fleet of approximately 2,000 vending machines. The two founders, David Mullan and Brian Berry, have agreed to support the ownership transition of BDS Vending following completion of the proposed transaction.
According to the announcement, the acquisition of BDS Vending is consistent with Coca-Cola HBC's strategy to enhance its route-to-market capabilities, including last mile delivery, while at the same time, it will unlock profitable opportunities across its well-rounded cold and hot beverages and snacks portfolio. BDS Vending also provides proven technology and services, from which Coca-Cola HBC plans to develop additional capabilities across its markets.
The proposed transaction is subject to approval by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) in Ireland and is anticipated to be completed over the coming months.