Dundee brewery 71 Brewing have just acquired Bon Accord

Dundee-based 71 Brewing has announced the acquisition of Bon Accord Soft Drinks, in a deal that unites two of Scotland’s best-known independent drinks brands.

The move, for an undisclosed sum, combines 71 Brewing’s craft beer expertise with Bon Accord’s naturally sweetened, plant-based carbonated soft drinks.

The merger creates a strong, complementary portfolio aimed at growth across the premium drinks market, both in the UK and internationally.

It also signals an expansion beyond beer for 71 Brewing, giving the company a broader base in retail, hospitality, and export markets.

Founded in 2016, 71 Brewing has built a reputation as one of Scotland’s leading craft brewers, with a wide range of beers that celebrate creativity and quality. Bon Accord, meanwhile, has been a household name for generations.

Originally launched in 1903 by founder Karen Knowles’ great-great-grandfather, the brand was revived in 2016 with a focus on wellbeing and healthier soft drink options.

Karen Knowles said the timing was right for Bon Accord to take its next step.

“We’ve had nine successful years of growth, building a brand that places wellbeing and better-for-you drinks at the heart of everything we do.

Partnering with 71 Brewing expands our operational capacity and allows us to scale, innovate, and reach new audiences with even greater impact.”

For 71 Brewing, the deal represents a major step in its diversification.

Managing director Duncan Alexander said: “The merger presents a unique opportunity to work with an established, opportunity-rich brand that shares our values.

Bon Accord’s ethos of craft and quality mirrors our own, and their premium soft drinks are a perfect complement to our beer portfolio.

Together, we’re creating a stronger, more versatile drinks company that reflects Scotland’s creativity and ambition.”

The acquisition will bring capital investment and closer collaboration between the two brands. Plans include expanding distribution across new and existing markets, developing innovative products and packaging formats, and accelerating revenue growth across multiple channels.

Industry observers see the merger as a sign of confidence in Scotland’s premium drinks sector, where consumer demand for authentic, high-quality products continues to grow. For both 71 Brewing and Bon Accord, it marks the start of a new chapter in their shared story.