Geoff Percival Drinks group C&C has prematurely pulled the plug on its US distribution deal with brewer Pabst, firmly putting paid to any near-term sale of the Irish cider-maker’s American operations.

Manufacturer’s of Magners cider, C&C Group, have reported results in line with guidance on the back of poor weather and increased competition.

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.

C&C Group has reached agreement to buy the Vermont Hard Cider Company for $305 million (€233m) — a deal which, when completed, will give the Dublin-headquartered drinks group control of the two biggest cider producers in the US.