Damm UK, the British arm of Barcelona-based independent family brewer S.A. Damm, and owner of the Estrella Damm brand, has agreed to acquire the Old Speckled Hen family of beer brands from Greene King.
The award-winning family of brands includes Old Speckled Hen, Old Golden Hen, Old Crafty Hen, Old Master Hen and Low Alcohol Old Speckled Hen.
During the transition process the Old Speckled Hen brands will continue to be brewed at Greene King’s Westgate Brewery. This will ensure continuity of supply and consistency of quality during the handover period. Following this, brewing is scheduled to move to the Damm Eagle Brewery in Bedford.
The agreement marks a new era for one of the UK’s most recognised premium ale brands and reflects the strong working relationship between Greene King and Estrella Damm. Central to the discussions has been securing a solid future for the brand, its customers and consumers.
Following completion of the purchase, the Old Speckled Hen brands will continue to be available in the off-trade, including major supermarkets across the UK as well as Greene King’s vast network of pubs.
Luke White, managing director of Damm UK, said: “Old Speckled Hen is an iconic British ale brand with a rich heritage and loyal following, and we are proud that Greene King has chosen Damm UK to take the brand forward into its next chapter.
We have great respect for the history Greene King has built around Old Speckled Hen over the last 25 years and look forward to working closely together throughout the transition period to ensure continued success for the brand, customers and consumers alike.
The brand not only complements the current portfolio range by adding another category to our offering but it also reconnects the Damm Eagle Brewery to its historic British beer and ale production roots.”
Greene King acquired Old Speckled Hen in 1999 from Morland and has grown it into one of the nation’s favourite ales.
Nick Mackenzie, CEO of Greene King, said: “We are proud to have built Old Speckled Hen into one of the nation’s favourite ales over the last 25 years and are delighted to have secured a partner in Estrella Damm who will continue to brew the ales in the UK. We look forward to working closely in partnership with Damm and seeing Old Speckled Hen’s future success under their ownership.”
The acquisition reinforces Damm’s long-term commitment to the UK market following the purchase of the Eagle Brewery in Bedford in 2022 and subsequent investment in the site.
This deal comes during the independent family brewer’s 150th anniversary year, reflecting the company’s continued focus on brewing excellence, authenticity and long-term brand stewardship.
