Champion Breweries Plc has announced plans to acquire the Bullet brand, one of Africa’s fastest-growing ready-to-drink (RTD) alcoholic and energy beverage portfolios, in a deal expected to significantly expand its product portfolio and foreign exchange earnings.
The transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals, will see Champion Breweries acquire all brand assets and intellectual property for Bullet from Sun Mark International Limited.
Under the agreement, the brands will be transferred to a new Netherlands-based entity in which Champion Breweries will hold a majority interest, while Belgian company Vinar N.V, the majority shareholder of Sun Mark, will retain a minority stake.
With its flagship product Bullet Black, the brand is a market leader in Nigeria’s RTD and energy drink segment and has a footprint across more than 14 African countries, including Cameroon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Tanzania.
Established in 1974 and listed on the Nigerian Exchange, Champion Breweries said the acquisition aligns with its growth strategy of investing in high-demand beverage categories and strengthening its financial base.
“The proposed acquisition marks a transformative step for Champion Breweries, expanding our portfolio into high-growth categories with strong consumer demand,” said Imo-abasi Jacob, Chairman of Champion Breweries. “Bullet’s international footprint and brand strength perfectly align with our vision for sustainable growth and market leadership.”
David Butler, Managing Director of enJOYcorp, Champion Breweries’ parent company, described Bullet as a “truly global African brand” with strong potential for expansion. “With its strong position in key markets and significant headroom for growth, we are poised to accelerate development through new product launches, market entries and strategic synergies across our operations,” he said.
Champion Breweries said the acquisition would deliver operational synergies, including shared distribution routes, consolidated warehousing, integrated stock management and centralised resource allocation. Several new Bullet products have already been approved and are scheduled for launch in 2026, alongside entry into additional African and international markets.
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