Almarai in Talks to Acquire Ajlan & Bros.’ Ival Water – Sources

Almarai is in negotiations to acquire Ival Water, owned by Ajlan & Bros. Group, industry sources told Maaal newspaper.

Talks are underway for Almarai to purchase Pure Beverages Industry Company, the Ajlan & Bros. subsidiary that owns the Ival brand, the sources said, adding that no final agreement has been reached. Neither company has issued an official statement on the matter.

Saudi Arabia’s bottled water sector has seen significant growth in recent years, with the market projected to reach 8.74 billion riyals by the end of 2024. The sector is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 8.99%, reaching 13.5 billion riyals by 2029.

The market is dominated by major brands, including Safa, Nova, and Hana, which together hold about 43% of market share. While no specific data is available on Ival’s market position, the company has been expanding its footprint. In 2024, it introduced German water treatment technology in partnership with Kronz AG to enhance product quality. Ival Water has also received an A+ rating from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, underscoring its commitment to high standards.

Almarai, one of the region’s largest food and beverage companies, is pursuing an ambitious expansion strategy through mergers and acquisitions. The company is diversifying its portfolio beyond dairy, juices, and baked goods, entering new markets and securing alternative supply sources to mitigate risks.

Pure Beverages Industry Company, founded in 1979 and owned by Ajlan & Bros., aims to redefine Saudi Arabia’s bottled water sector. It offers a range of drinking water products tailored to a broad consumer base.

Almarai reported a 16.2% rise in fourth-quarter net profit to 430.7 million riyals, up from 370.7 million riyals a year earlier. Full-year net profit for 2024 rose 12.8% to 2.3 billion riyals.