Origin Wines buys Orbital’s assets

Orbital Wine’s assets have been sold to Origin Wines for an undisclosed amount. Orbital, which went into administration late last year, counted Stormhoek and Camden Park among its wine brands. While attempts were originally made to sell the company as a going concern, this has not been achieved.

Paul Corlett, manager at administrator Menzies, confirmed today that sale had been completed. Origin’s purchase includes all assets from the other two parts of Orbital’s business, namely California Direct and Bulk Brokers International, as well as stock that is reportedly valued at £1.9 million.

Origin Wine, based in Stellenbosch, South Africa, is behind Fairtrade brand Fairhills Wines, and supplies wine for brands such as Constellation’s Kumala.

However, Orbital’s assets have been purchased by Origin’s UK company. Origin’s UK office was set up last year.

Clinton Cawood, 07/02/08