Manchester-based beer, wine, and spirit importer Morgenrot has completed the acquisition of Sussex-based brewer and distributor Wingtip Brewing Co for an undisclosed fee.
The deal will see Morgenrot, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2020, take full control of Wingtip’s operations from 1st February, including its distribution hub, warehouse, vehicles, and beer brand. Wingtip co-founders, Chris and Simon Tripp, plus the rest of the team, will continue in their roles.
Morgenrot managing director, Carl Plath, said: “Our relationship with Wingtip in recent years has been hugely beneficial, so we’re delighted to announce this deal, that will further strengthen our sales and distribution in the South.
“Simon and Chris are amazing people, hugely respected in the trade, and the sky is the limit when it comes to the Wingtip beer brand, so it’s very exciting to have them firmly as part of the Morgenrot family.”
Wingtip Brewing Company was set up by father and son team Chris and Simon Tripp in 2015 to produce premium beers and craft ales. Based in Ashurst, West Sussex, the company has built an impressive sales and distribution hub and is renowned for its Captain Pilsner and stylish aviation-themed branding.
The company has been working closely with Morgenrot for the last five years, managing the importer’s direct distribution and supply in London and the wider South East, while growing the Wingtip beer brand.
Independent importer
Simon Tripp said: “It’s been fantastic working with the Morgenrot team over the last few years. They’re a great bunch of people and the relationship has been very positive for both parties.
“In order to take advantage of future opportunities, work more efficiently, and spend more time driving growth for the Wingtip beers, the offer from Carl was too good to turn down, and we’re all looking forward to this next stage of the Wingtip journey.”
Set up in 1970, Morgenrot is an independent, family-run importer, with famous world beer brands such as Krombacher, Alhambra, Quilmes, and Windhoek Lager, supplemented by an eclectic selection of wine, sherry, vermouth and spirits.
The company is now run by Carl Plath, whose father Rudi set up and made a success of the company before being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2010. In 2020, as the company was celebrating its 50th anniversary, Rudi was one of the first to contract and then beat covid-19 in the North of England.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, Morgenrot raised £1,657 for Alzheimer’s support groups in Manchester.
