7th December, 2009:
Qualia Wines, a consortium of Mildura based vignerons and business
leaders, has purchased the assets of Neqtar Wines Pty Ltd.
Spokesperson Greg
Hutchison said “With many of Australia’s
wineries under foreign ownership we are proud to have this important industry
asset back where it belongs. Qualia shareholders are part of the Sunraysia
community. As residents and long term suppliers to the former Neqtar Wines we
know the business and understand how vital it is in this community, our
suppliers and customers”.
Our two wineries near
Mildura, at Irymple and Merbein, will be maintained as will most of the
existing workforce. Qualia Wines, trading as Qualia Wine Services (QWS), is
focused on developing the assets of Neqtar Wines, Australia’s eleventh largest wine
maker, into a sustainable, high quality winery.
“QWS have taken control of the winery today enabling preparation for the 2010
vintage. We are well financed and determined to better manage the chain from
our suppliers to the consumer”.
“The underlying business fundamentals are strong and the QWS team will build on
an excellent winemaking reputation and strong international demand
for its products from major wine retailers. We are supported by a qualified, experienced and highly
professional team of managers. Much of the wine we make is sold
to major brand owners both here and overseas but our own brands are enjoying
significant market penetration in both traditional and emerging markets. We will
continue to supply our grape juice and grape concentrate and offer contract
wine making and blending services.” He said.
The acquisition
occurred following successful negotiations with receivers PriceWaterhouseCoopers
acting for Neqtar Limited’s bank Landsbanki. Neqtar Australia Pty Ltd, along
with its subsidiaries Neqtar Wines Pty Ltd and SDS Beverages Pty Ltd, went into
receivership earlier this year after the collapse of Neqtar Wines UK based parent
company Neqtar Limited.
For further
information contact David Birch
Sales & Marketing
Director
Telephone +61 (0)414
327965
Email d.birch@qws.com.au
