Guinness Nigeria Plc wishes to correct the recent speculations and false/malicious misinformation alleging a plan to exit from the Nigerian market. Contrary to rumors being peddled on various media platforms, Guinness Nigeria remains firmly committed to its operations in Nigeria and is poised for a new phase of growth and innovation.
Since commencing operations in April 1950, Guinness Nigeria
boasts of a proud and eventful 74-year legacy intricately woven into Nigeria’s
cultural and economic fabric. Our unwavering commitment to Nigeria is evident
in the substantial investments in infrastructure, employment, backward
integration and our community development and social responsibility
initiatives. The recent announcement of the partnership between Diageo and
Tolaram Group further reinforces unequivocally that Guinness Nigeria remains committed
to Nigeria and has no intention of exiting the dynamic Nigerian market.Our
business will continue strongly, and no jobs or factories will be adversely
affected as a result of this new
partnership.
Under the partnership announced, Tolaram Group will acquire
a 58.02% majority stake in Guinness Nigeria, enabling us to harness and
leverage Tolaram Group’s extensive expertise in manufacturing and distribution.
Importantly, Guinness Nigeria will retain its status as a listed company on the
Nigerian Stock Exchange, maintaining its prime status in the Nigerian beverage
industry.Diageo’s establishment of a wholly-owned international premium spirits
company in Nigeria is also a noteworthy demonstration of its continuing
dedication to sustaining its operations across West and Central Africa, with
Nigeria as a pivotal operational hub.
Under a long-term license and royalty arrangement, Guinness
Nigeria will continue to produce and sell all our iconic brands including
Guinness FES and Smooth, Smirnoff Ice, Orijin Bitters, and Malta Guinness as
well as Diageo MSS brands like Smirnoff X1, Gordon’s Moringa and Captain Morgan
Gold Rum, ensuring our esteemed consumers nationwide continue to enjoy their
favorite beverages.
We are excited to embark on this new chapter of growth and
development in Nigeria.