Sunrise Beverages and Orion Breweries have announced the next stage of their UK partnership, including a minority investment by Orion into Sunrise.
Orion has built a loyal following both in Japan and, increasingly, internationally. Since partnering with Sunrise, it has expanded its UK footprint significantly, securing listings with retailers such as Waitrose, It has also built distribution across premium hospitality operators including Portobello Pub Company, The Duck and Rice, and Sticks’n’Sushi, alongside a growing presence in London’s premium on-trade.
Established in Okinawa in 1957, Orion has spent almost seven decades refining its distinctive signature lager recipe. Export volumes having risen almost 400% in six years.
Sunrise Beverages is building a portfolio of independent beer brands with a mission to become the UK’s most successful independent beer company. Its portfolio includes international brands such as Efes and Orion, alongside award-winning domestic breweries, including Gipsy Hill, Days Brewing, Curious, Portobello, and St Peter’s.
“Over the last few years we’ve demonstrated that there is a significant opportunity for Orion in the UK, particularly across premium retail and hospitality channels,” said Richard Mather, chief executive of Sunrise Beverages.
“Together, we’ve built a fantastic partnership, and this agreement gives us the confidence to continue investing behind the brand for many years to come. The decision by Orion to invest in Sunrise is a strong endorsement of our strategy, our people, and the opportunity we see ahead.”
Patric Dougan, senior managing executive officer of Orion Breweries, said: “Sunrise have impressed us with their deep expertise in the on-trade, proven track record of delivering exceptional customer service, and a genuine commitment to long-term brand building.
“They have established themselves as a trusted partner for Orion and we are excited to deepen our relationship through this renewed agreement and our first investment in an overseas partner.”
