UK company 'in talks' with Independent Distillers

Independent Distillers - the company founded by Michael Erceg - is in advanced discussions with Liverpool-based drinks company Halewood International over the future of its UK and European business, a British liquor industry magazine has reported.

Independent declined to comment on the report yesterday.

Last month, weekly trade magazine the Publican reported that Halewood - which already owns a number of popular "ready-to-drink" brands - was interested in taking over Independent's UK brands, which include Vodka Mudshake and Funky Monkey Vodka shots.

There has been speculation about the sale of Independent since Erceg died in a helicopter crash last year.

Lion Nathan has been tipped as the most likely buyer.