Japan’s Lifedrink Company has announced plans to acquire two beverage-related businesses as part of a strategy to expand its sales channels.

The company’s board of directors approved the acquisition last Thursday, 5 March 2026, with the transaction expected to be completed on Wednesday, 1 April 2026 through a newly established consolidated subsidiary.

Under the deal, Lifedrink will acquire SD Next Co, which manages vending machine operations, and SD Bottlers Co, which operates beverage wholesale and related activities, from Sukima Depart Co.

Lifedrink said the move aligns with its management strategy focused on the “evolution and deepening of max production and max sales”. The company has previously prioritised expanding production capacity through initiatives such as upgrading beverage factory facilities, building new plants and pursuing mergers and acquisitions.

By acquiring the vending machine and distribution businesses, the company aims to strengthen its direct sales channels and reinforce its overall business foundation.

SD Next, established in September 2023 and headquartered in Tokyo, oversees vending machine-related operations for affiliated companies. The group operates approximately 3,000 vending machines, with aggregated net sales of JPY 2.7 billion (approx. $17.9 million) in the fiscal year ended August 2025, up from JPY 2.5 billion (approx. $16.6 million) in 2023.

Meanwhile, Osaka-based SD Bottlers, founded in 2003, focuses on wholesale, retail and international trade of beverages and alcoholic drinks, as well as the purchase and sale of vending machines. The company recorded net sales of JPY 5.1 billion (approx. $34.1 million) in the fiscal year ended February 2025, compared with JPY 3.5 billion (approx. $23.2 million) in 2023.

The acquisition price for both companies has not been disclosed at the request of the counterparty. Following completion of the transaction, Lifedrink will hold 100% of the voting rights in each company.

Lifedrink and Sukima Depart also plan to discuss potential future collaboration initiatives.

The company said the acquisition is expected to have only a minor impact on its consolidated operating results for the fiscal year ending March 2026.