The acquisition will see Shandy Shack joining SHS Drinks – part of the SHS Group – alongside names such as Shloer, bottlegreen, Rocks, WKD and Merrydown already in the drinks manufacturer’s portfolio.
Established in 2018, Shandy Shack combines mid-strength ABV beer with sodas like elderflower, ginger and raspberry. The latter was born from a collaboration between SHS Drinks and Shandy Shack prior to the acquisition, with the Raspberry Lager using bottlegreen’s Raspberry Cordial which launched in June 2024.
Through this new partnership the duo hopes to propel Shandy Shack’s growth in the lower alcohol space, helping it to reach the increasing number of adults looking to reduce their alcohol intake.
Commenting on the acquisition, Andy Morris-Jinks, managing director of SHS Drinks, said: “We are excited to welcome Shandy Shack into our brand family. The mid-strength ABV market is seeing rapid growth as consumers seek options for low-tempo, relaxed socialising. Shandy Shack’s innovative and award-winning product range aligns perfectly with our vision for broadening our consumer base and tapping into emerging market trends.”
Research from Aviva found that almost half (48%) of UK adults who drink alcohol plan to stop or reduce the amount they consume over the next year.
While more than a third (34%) said their desire to reduce their alcohol intake is a money saving exercise, health is also a key motivator.
The research also showed that the younger generation are most likely to cut down their alcohol consumption. As many as 61% of 18–24-year-olds plan to reduce or completely stop their drinking over the next year, which increases to seven percentage points for those aged 25-34.
The brand will become part of SHS Drinks’ New Ventures division, with Shandy Shack’s co-founders Ed Stapleton and Tom Stevens continuing to lead its development and expansion.
“It is a fantastic feeling to join forces with SHS Drinks to accelerate the development of Shandy Shack,” added Stapleton.
“This partnership will provide unparalleled opportunities to leverage their expertise, resources and support to expand our brand’s reach.”