Henkell, a subsidiary of the Oetker Group specializing in sparkling wines, wine and spirits, has reached an agreement for the acquisition of a 50.67% stake in Freixenet. The aim is not just to become the majority stakeholder in the Spanish company, but to join forces to become the leading sparkling wine group in the world. As well as buying shares, it has concluded an extensive international cooperation agreement with José Ferrer Sala and José Luis Bonet Ferrer, who will continue as Freixenet shareholders.

The German company considers that the two companies' large product portfolios complement each other perfectly in the international markets where they are present. Freixenet contributes what Henkell calls the leading brand of cava in the world, while the German company has two sparkling wines that are extremely popular around the world.

Once the deal is approved by the antitrust authorities, this strategic partnership will open up new markets and distribution channels for the two companies, enabling them to further expand their international market positions and to achieve sustainable growth.

A stronger international presence
José Luis Bonet Ferrer, Chairman of Freixenet, explained: "Over more than three generations, we have made Freixenet the world's leading producer of cava. In Henkell we have found a strong partner with a long-term strategy that will significantly strengthen Freixenet and help us maintain our identity and tradition, with an even stronger international presence in the future."

For Oetker, its General Partner Albert Christmann said: "With the acquisition of the Freixenet shares we will significantly strengthen the international market position of our sparkling wine, wine and spirits division, while at the same time building up a solid base for sustainable joint growth in this business."

The CEO of Henkell, Andreas Brokemper, added: "Henkell and Freixenet share a strong entrepreneurial vision. We are delighted to be able to explore together the opportunities for global growth in the sparkling wine market together."