Asahi Beverages New Zealand is expanding its presence in the New Zealand beer market as it becomes the official distributor of Asahi Beverages’ Australian beer brands from 1 May this year.

The brands include Victoria Bitter, Pure Blonde and Foster’s.

Under the new distribution arrangement, the beers will continue to be brewed in Australia by Asahi Beverages’ Australian alcohol division, Carlton & United Breweries, before they are shipped to Asahi Beverages NZ (ABNZ).

ABNZ says that its sales staff will work closely with pubs and retailers across the country during the transition from the present distributor.

Asahi Beverages New Zealand CEO Andrew Campbell said: “This is an incredibly exciting announcement for Asahi Beverages New Zealand. It will support our continued growth and expansion. Many Kiwis love these iconic Australian brands. Pure Blonde and Victoria Bitter in particular enjoy a cult following in New Zealand.”