Super Group Ltd is the best takeover target in Asia for companies keen to grab a slice of t the ast-growing instant coffee market in Asia- report

By Nicel Jane Avellana

Jan 15 2014, 23:34 PM EST

For beverage firms intent on getting a portion of the growing instant coffee market in Asia and are willing to pay the price for it, the best firm to takeover would have to be Super Group Ltd, Bloomberg reported. The Super Coffee sachets maker gives its potential acquirers established brands and a Southeast Asia distribution network.

Malayan Banking Bhd told Bloomberg that the most likely suitors for the company are Japan-based Kirin Holdings Co and Suntory Beverage & Food Ltd. The bank added that at the very least, the companies would need to offer the coffeemaker $2.2 billion to persuade the founders to divest the company. Bloomberg data showed that at this amount, the offer would be the most expensive when considered in the light of the net income of any Asian coffeemaker, the report said.

Data also revealed that in the last five years, Super has increased profit the most compared to its rivals as demand for food and beverages increase in Asia together with growth. Citing figures from Euromonitor International, the report said the instant coffee market in Southeast Asia is forecasted to grow 38% from 2013 to nearly $4 billion in 2017.

In a phone interview, Singapore Maybank Analyst James Koh told Bloomberg that Super will certainly benefit greatly from the increasing consumption. He added, "The appeal here is you have a market leader in its space and you immediately get access to some very attractive markets."

Information from its website showed that Super has plants from China to Malaysia. The Owl-branded coffee maker's most recent quarterly results show that branded products comprise around 65% of its revenue. The remainder comes from food ingredients. Super has been in business for 27 years.

DBS Group Holdings Ltd Analyst Alfie Yeo told Bloomberg through email that part of Super's allure is its ability to control its raw materials and production. He said, "Super offers any potential buyer solid brands, an integrated ingredients and manufacturing chain, and an extensive marketing reach in Southeast Asia."