ST. LOUIS — Anheuser-Busch Companies L.L.C. has agreed to acquire Hiball Inc., maker of organic energy drinks, sparkling energy waters and cold brew coffee under the Hiball brand as well as Alta Palla brand organic sparkling juices and sparkling waters. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of this year. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Founded in 2005, Hiball produces energy drinks and sparkling energy waters made with a proprietary, organic-certified energy blend, consisting of caffeine, guarana, and ginseng. Todd Berardi, Hiball’s founder and president, Alyssa Warnock, creative director and designer, and Dan Craytor, vice-president of business development, will continue to lead and manage the business following the acquisition.
“The combination of Hiball’s category-leading organic energy drinks and Alta Palla’s organic sparkling juices and sparkling waters together with our network and operational know-how will create tremendous growth opportunities for these brands,” said João Castro Neves, president and chief executive officer of Anheuser-Busch. “There are some key similarities between our companies, including our desire to dream big, our passion for our people and our products, and our commitment to quality and sustainability in everything we do. Our goal is to deliver Hiball products to new markets, while preserving their culture and brand identities. Hiball’s motto is ‘It’s all good,’ and we couldn’t agree more.”
The acquisition of Hiball will further deepen Anheuser-Busch’s investments in the non-alcoholic sector, the company said. Anheuser-Busch has planned a phased transition of the Hiball Energy and Alta Palla brands to its wholesale partners.