LONDON (Alliance News) - FTSE 100-listed brewer SABMiller PLC on Friday said it has struck a deal to buy Greenwich, London-based craft beer company Meantime Brewing Co for an undisclosed amount.

Meantime was founded in 1999 and now offers a range of beers sold in pubs across the UK, including London Lager and Meantime Pale Ale. SABMiller said it intends to grow sales of Meantime beers nationally and explore export opportunities in the European market.

SABMiller added the deal gives it an entry point into the craft brewing market, the fastest-growing segment in the beer market in the UK.

"Meantime has been at the forefront of the modern craft beer movement in the UK and brews an outstanding range of beers across a variety of styles. At SABMiller we love local variety, and carefully nurture our 200 local and heritage beers. Meantime, born in a city with a rich beer heritage, will be a special new addition to the SABMiller family," said SABMiller Europe Managing Director Sue Clark.

By Sam Unsted; samunsted@alliancenews.com; @SamUAtAlliance

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