Six American craft beverage equipment suppliers have merged in a $100 million deal to create LOTUS Beverage Alliance.
The combined capabilities of LOTUS Beverage Alliance will enable beverage manufacturers of all sizes to access the most comprehensive array of products spanning every step of production for craft beer, wine, hard cider, spirits, cold brew coffee, ready-to-drink cocktails, kombucha, CBD/THC-infused drinks, and sake beverages.
The six merged companies, Alpha Brewing Operations, GW Kent, Twin Monkeys, Stout Tanks and Kettles, Brewmation, and Automated Extractions, are leaders in craft beverage equipment manufacturing and offer essential infrastructure and technology for diversifying the craft beverage industry.
The five founders of the six companies will remain in senior leadership positions at LOTUS: Matt Rennerfeldt, John Watt, Kevin Weaver, Josh Van Riper, and Randy Reichwage. John Ansbro, an industry veteran with more than 30 years of experience in equipment manufacturing, has been named Chief Executive Officer for LOTUS. Ansbro has held senior executive positions at Alfa Laval, Johnson Controls, and the GEA Group.
“LOTUS has everything craft beverage creators need to produce the amazing artisanal products they love, for people who love them,” said John Ansbro, CEO of LOTUS Beverage Alliance. “Our team’s proven industry experience includes a deep bench of experts helping to optimize the production of handcrafted beverages for consumers to enjoy.”
Following the six-way merger, the LOTUS Beverage Alliance ownership structure includes the founders from all six businesses. Additionally, LOTUS has implemented an employee ownership program.