Brookfield Drinks has announced the acquisition of Crabbie’s Alcoholic Ginger Beer, marking a change in ownership from Halewood Artisanal Spirits. 

According to Brookfield, Crabbie’s dates to 1801, when it was invented in Edinburgh. It is made using a six-week ginger-steeping process that’s distinctive to the brand. 

The liquid is then blended with a neutral spirit, goes through a carbonation process and is mixed with four secret ingredients in the final steps of production. 

Brookfield said that the acquisition was driven by an opportunity to take part in the trend for flavour-led alcoholic beers. 

It continued that the alcoholic ginger beer complements its Rubis fruit beer range and strengthens its position as a supplier of fruit/flavoured beverages. 

As well as the original ginger beer, Brookfield will also be taking on other liquids in the range, including raspberry and blood orange variants, alongside Crabbie’s alcoholic ginger wine. 

It is set to increase the marketing investment for the entire brand, strengthening its presence across both retail and hospitality. 

Nigel McNally, founder of Brookfield Drinks, said: “Crabbie’s is a must stock product within the fast-growing fruit/ flavoured beer market.

“With the alcoholic ginger beer and fruit beer category continuing to grow, particularly amongst consumers seeking more flavour-led and refreshing craft centric drinking experiences, we believe there is a significant opportunity to further elevate the brand.” 

Stewart Hainsworth, CEO of Halewood Artisanal Spirits, added: “The sale of Crabbie’s Alcoholic Ginger Beer, is another exciting step forward for the Halewood company as part of its spirits focused artisanal brand strategy.  

“Crabbie’s Alcoholic Ginger Beer will be a core brand for Brookfield Drinks and they have some exciting plans to continue to support and grow Crabbie’s in the UK and beyond.”