Global Brands expands further with acquisition of Inspirit

A spokeswoman for the company said the acquisition of Inspirit had put the Derbyshire town firmly on the map as an ever-growing hub for the drinks industry.

Global Brands manufactures and distributes a range of different alcoholic drinks.

Steve Perez, the founder and chairman, said: "We're a Chesterfield business that's incredibly proud of its roots, and we want to play a part in putting our town on the map when it comes to national business success.

"Inspirit is a great addition to the fold and represents a significant opportunity for us to diversify into different markets so that we can become the leading drinks brand development business in the UK. Global Brands has always been a fast-moving, entrepreneurial business, and this is proof that we've come a long way since our inception.

"The premium spirits market is currently a challenging one, but as consumers are still willing to pay for quality, this deal puts us in a good position to capitalise as the market recovers.

"The acquisition of Inspirit Brands is the next step in the expansion of our drinks brands portfolio."

Global Brands distributes a range of products across the wine, spirits, ready to drink, beer and soft drink categories, including VK, Corky's, Kick Energy and Adoro Wine.

Its spirits include Goldschlger, Sobieski, Myers's Rum and Ypica Cachaa. The acquisition adds Four Roses Bourbon, El Dorado Rum, No.3 London Dry Gin and Opal Nera to this portfolio.

The company, which was formed in 1997, has a turnover of nearly 70m and is one of the few independent international drinks companies.

The company exports to over 30 countries around the world.

Its markets include Germany, Spain and Africa.

One of its most successful products is VK Vodka Kick, a range of pre-mixed fruit vodka drinks, which sells more than three million bottles a week.