EXPRESSIONS of interest have been made regarding the sale of Billson’s Beverages as the Beechworth brewery formally begins its sale process. Administrators Robert Smith and Matthew Hutton from McGrathNicol listed the expression form on Monday, August 12, quantifying the interest “for the recapitalisation and/or sale” of the business or assets. According to the Australian Financial Review, around 50 expressions of interests were submitted within the first day of advertising. The expression of interest form states the award-winning destination of Beechworth and it’s loyal and supporting local community as key selling points in the potential sale. “The business represents a generational opportunity to acquire an established brand, quality assets and high performing team which has grown the business to c.$100m turnover in six years,” it reads. “Outstanding opportunity for strategic player or bolt on for financial sponsor with interests in the beverages market.” The expressions of interests cutoff was 5pm on August 15. The business, owned by Nathan Cowan and his wife Felicity had expanded rapidly since they took over in 2017, growing in revenue by 160 per cent from 2020 to 2024. The company went into voluntary administration on July 31, citing a rapid downturn in consumer spending, and punishing government excise duties as contributing factors. It comes after Billson's cutting of several jobs in March this year due to "cost of living pressures and a change in consumer behaviour". Mr Cowan said he was “devastated” by the collapse of the business. The Beechworth venue has remained open seven days per week and their online store has operated as usual. Billson's is a family-owned beverages businesses based in Beechworth and was established in 1865. Its range of cordials and ready-to-drink cans continue to sell in local chains such as Dan Murphy’s, BWS and Liquorland along with independent liquor stores.
