Heineken acquires Belgian cider maker Stassen SA

Heineken NV, the world's third-largest brewer by volume, yesterday acquired Belgian cider maker Stassen SA in order to extend its dominance in the global cider market.

In 1895, Léon Stassen, a farmer, produced his first cider, using apples from his own orchard in Aubel. He wrote down his original recipe, which was passed on to his son, Léon, who in 1937 founded a small cider brewery in the centre of the village.

Between 1987 and 1991, the company grew because of the introduction of flavoured ciders and became the leader in the Belgian and Dutch cider markets.

UK's Bulmers group, which in turn became a part of Scottish & Newcastle, acquired Stassen in 1992, but the Stassen family bought back the family business in 2008.

Based in Aubel, Belgium, Stassen, is one of Europe's largest cider producers. The company produces, bottles and distributes ciders, flavoured ciders, alcohole-free ciders and sparkling fruit juices. The company also makes non-alcoholic beers and other non-alcoholic drinks.

Stassen's product portfolio includes popular brands such as "Stassen" flavoured ciders, "Degré Zéro" alcohol-free ciders, "Kidibul" party drink, the top-selling "Stassen Cider" and the new range of alcohol-free wines "Vintense"