By Jed Lanyon
The founders of Four Pillars Gin and the management of Lion have announced that Lion has invested in the Healesville-based distillery, taking a 50 per cent stake in the business.
Four Pillars was established by Stuart Gregor, Cameron Mackenzie and Matt Jones in 2013, and the award-
winning craft gin brand is now enjoyed by people around the world.
Lion’s investment will allow the founders to follow their dream of building the world’s leading craft gin brand.
“The partnership with Lion really is a ripper for us,” said Mr Gregor.
“It would not be untrue to say that more than a few organisations have shown an interest in us over the past
18 months and Lion just felt the best. We like their focus on craft, we like the fact we will be their first and
most important craft spirit brand, and we like the fact that part of the deal is a slab of Furphy every month for
the rest of our lives.
“We have a terrific relationship with the senior management at Lion and reckon this is the start of a really
exciting new chapter for our business.”
Lion is a leading beverage company, with a reputation for being a pioneer in craft brewing. Its portfolio
includes brands such as James Squire, Little Creatures and Furphy.
Lion Managing Director James Brindley shared his enthusiasm for the announcement.
“The partnership with Four Pillars is really exciting for Lion, as we venture into new categories outside our
core beer business,” Brindley said.
“What Matt, Cam and Stu have done in creating Four Pillars in just over five years is nothing short of
remarkable and we want them to keep their hands on the wheel, while we offer advice, counsel and
assistance.”
