Media Release
Issued 3 July 2006/148
Lion Nathan applies for clearance to acquire Independent Liquor
The Commission has received an application from Lion Nathan Limited seeking clearance to acquire up to 100% of the
shares and/or assets of Independent Liquor (NZ) Limited.
Lion Nathan manufactures and distributes a range of alcoholic beverages in both Australia and New Zealand. Lion Nathan
subsidiaries include: New Zealand Breweries, which primarily brews beer; and Lion Nathan Wines and Spirits, which
primarily distributes wine, spirits and ready-to-drink (RTD) spirit brands under licensing agreements. Lion Nathan also
operates the ‘Liquor King’ chain of retail stores.
Independent Liquor also supplies a range of alcoholic beverages. Independent Liquor primarily manufactures a range of
RTD spirit brands such as Purple Goanna, KGB, Woodstock Bourbon and Cola, and the Vodka Cruiser range. Independent also
supplies a number of beer, wine and spirit brands.
In considering the application, the Commission’s role is to determine whether the acquisition has the effect of
substantially lessening competition in a market.
A public version of the application will shortly be available on the Commission’s website www.comcom.govt.nz under
Public Registers.
Commission media releases can be viewed on its web site www.comcom.govt.nz