Leading online wine retailer, Just Wines, has announced its acquisition of Liquor Loot, a prominent Australian craft spirit subscription service that recently entered voluntary administration (VA). Founder of Just Wines, Nitesh Bhatia, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, emphasizing its role in broadening the company’s portfolio and preventing the closure of Liquor Loot.
Bhatia highlighted Liquor Loot’s strong brand presence and innovative business model, which allows customers to sample products in smaller formats before committing to full purchases. With over 61,000 customers served in recent years, Liquor Loot has demonstrated success in the competitive market.
The acquisition represents a strategic expansion for Just Wines, marking its entry into the spirits category and positioning the company as a comprehensive liquor and beverage provider. By integrating Liquor Loot’s offerings with its existing portfolio, including non-alcoholic options from Sans Drinks, Just Wines aims to enhance its market appeal and competitive stance.
Joel Hauer, Founder & Director of Liquor Loot, described the sale as the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the company. He emphasized the strategic benefits of partnering with Just Wines, including access to warehouse facilities, logistics capabilities, and experienced staff.
Hauer expressed confidence that the synergy between Liquor Loot and Just Wines would accelerate the company’s path to profitability, enabling it to thrive under new ownership. He pledged to uphold Liquor Loot’s core values of education, experience, and high-quality curated selections while exploring new market opportunities and product categories.
Bhatia acknowledged Hauer’s pivotal role in guiding Liquor Loot through the transition and affirmed his commitment to supporting the company’s growth trajectory. With Hauer’s expertise and collaboration, Just Wines aims to optimize operations and expand into new markets.
The successful sale was facilitated by voluntary administrator Andrew Spring of Jirsch Sutherland, a specialist in business turnaround and insolvency. Spring commended the outcome as a testament to the effectiveness of voluntary administration in preserving value for creditors and safeguarding jobs.
Highlighting the speed and efficiency of the VA process, Spring emphasized its role in facilitating strategic partnerships and business acquisitions. He described the Liquor Loot acquisition as a prime example of how voluntary administration can rescue businesses and foster growth opportunities in competitive markets.
The acquisition of Liquor Loot underscores Just Wines’ commitment to innovation and strategic expansion, positioning the company for continued success in the evolving liquor industry landscape.
