CMA approves William Grant & Sons’ acquisition of The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt brands

William Grant & Sons has moved closer to completing the acquisition from Edrington subsidiary The 1887 Company Limited after the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority rubber-stamped the deal.

Mar 6, 2025 - 16:53

CMA approves William Grant & Sons’ acquisition of The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt brands

In major Scotch whisky industry news, it has been announced today that the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has approved William Grant & Sons’ acquisition of The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt Scotch whisky brands.

The deal is being struck with Edrington subsidiary The 1887 Company Limited.

Details of the acquisition were revealed by the two companies last September, as reported.

**Ownership of the strong Scotch whisky brands Famous Grouse and Naked Malt is set to change hands**

William Grant & Sons Chief Executive Officer Søren Hagh said: “This is an important moment for William Grant & Sons. The acquisition of The Famous Grouse, when completed, will further demonstrate our significant commitment to building category momentum in Scotch Whisky in the UK and in our markets globally.”

A spokesperson for the company added: “William Grant & Sons is delighted with the Competition and Markets Authority’s announcement on its approval of our acquisition of The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt brands from The 1887 Company.

“Completion of the acquisition remains subject to customary regulatory approval in certain other countries, and we will continue to work constructively with the relevant authorities.”