Germany: Oetker group plans to acquire breweries in Bavaria

Oetker, the German conglomerate, is planning to acquire breweries in southern Germany, notably Bavaria, Die Welt reported March 8.

It will aim, through acquisitions, to increase its share of the beer market from 16 per cent to 20 per cent in the coming five years. Its current brands include Radeberger and Jever. Possible takeover candidates are reported to include Erdinger and Augustiner, while the company has also indicated interest in the Munich-based Paulaner Brauerei, but the stake held in this brewing company by the Dutch group Heineken is regarded as an obstacle. Management has indicated that the group's brewing activities meet its targeted return of 12 per cent of tied up group capital.

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Shipping also counts among the Oetker group's activities, contributing around 43 per cent of its turnover, and is regarded as offering substantial growth potential. The group's shipping subsidiary, Hamburg Sud, is adding a further 22 new vessels to its fleet. Management has said that, while the sale of Hamburg Sud is out of the question, the group is not planning a major acquisition in this area of activity. Its other areas of business include foods, banking and insurance.

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