Guatemalan Spirits Group acquisition strengthens its European strategy

Guatemala City / Seville, January 2026 — Guatemalan Spirits Group has reached an agreement to acquire 100% of Puerto de Indias, the iconic Spanish gin brand, from private equity firm H.I.G. Capital. The transaction, pending standard regulatory approvals, is expected to close by the end of January 2026.

This move marks a significant milestone for the Guatemalan-based spirits group as it deepens its long-term commitment to Spain and the broader European market.

Puerto de Indias: a strategic asset within the Guatemalan Spirits Group acquisition

Founded in Seville, Puerto de Indias has built a leading position in Spain’s flavored gin category. The brand’s success stems from a high-quality portfolio, strong brand identity, and robust commercial execution in one of Europe’s most competitive spirits markets.

During H.I.G. Capital’s ownership, Puerto de Indias sharpened its brand positioning, strengthened its leadership in the category, and professionalized its internal structure. The company also launched its international expansion and significantly upgraded its operations, including the opening of a state-of-the-art production facility in Carmona, Seville.

These developments laid the groundwork for sustained, long-term growth.

Guatemalan Spirits Group acquisition expands a premium global portfolio

With this transaction, Guatemalan Spirits Group reinforces its European footprint while adding a brand with clear international potential. Backed by more than 80 years of experience, the group operates a strong industrial and commercial platform and specializes in building premium spirits brands.

Its portfolio includes globally recognized names such as Zacapa Rum, available in more than 120 countries, alongside Botran Rum, Venado Rum, Xibal Gin, Quezalteca, Trenzuda, Mizata Vodka, and Petrov Vodka.

The combination of Puerto de Indias’ market leadership in Spain and Guatemalan Spirits Group’s international expertise aims to accelerate growth both domestically and in priority export markets.

Leadership perspectives on the Guatemalan Spirits Group acquisition

Douglas Franco, Corporate CEO of Guatemalan Spirits Group, said the deal reflects the company’s long-term vision:

“This acquisition brings to life our strategy to consolidate our presence in markets of high strategic value. It reinforces our commitment to Spain and Europe as key drivers of global growth and supports our focus on sustainable international expansion through strong brands with clear identity and growth potential.”

Borja de Parias, Principal at H.I.G. Capital in Spain, highlighted the transformation achieved under H.I.G.’s ownership:

“We focused on professionalizing the organization, preparing the company for international development, and consolidating its leadership in the Spanish market, particularly through the disruptive success of its strawberry gin. We are confident that Guatemalan Spirits Group is the right partner to lead the next phase of growth.”

Advisors and next steps following the Guatemalan Spirits Group acquisition

Guatemalan Spirits Group received financial advice from Deloitte, with legal counsel provided by Greenberg Traurig and Pérez-Llorca. H.I.G. Capital was advised by Cuatrecasas.

Once completed, the transaction will position Puerto de Indias to enter its next phase of expansion, supported by a group with global reach, operational strength, and a long-term growth mindset.

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Source of Information

This article was based on a press release from Guatemala Spirits.

The image of the article is courtesy of © Royal Graphics via Canva.com