C&C Group has acquired the Gleeson Group, the country’s leading drinks distributor, in a deal valued at €58 million — a move C&C claims has the potential to “transform” its Irish business.

Late last year multinational drinks giant Diageo sold Gilbey’s, its Irish wine distribution division, to Tipperary-based drinks distributor, Gleeson.

TIPPERARY could have new jersey sponsors in time for next month’s National Leagues if re-negotiations with current backers Enfer Scientific fail. After winning last year’s All-Ireland SHC title, the Premier County is attracting interest from a number of companies and it is understood a car manufacturer, possibly Skoda Motors, could come on board if Enfer’s nine-year association with Tipperary is brought to an end.

United Beverages, a subsidiary of Diageo, is to sell its Finches brand to M&G Gleeson, which owns the Tipperary mineral water brand.