Russian Oligarch Mechetin Expands Beluga Group with Latvia Distillery Acquisition

Olena Ivanova By Olena Ivanova
6 Min Read

Originally Syndicated on May 3, 2023 @ 10:20 am

Alexander Mechetin, the founder of Beluga Group, has recently acquired two Latvian alcohol companies, Kalsnavas Elevators and Biodegviela. This move is expected to further strengthen Mechetin’s position in the alcohol industry.

In 2015, Alexander Mechetin established a strong presence in Latvia. An oligarch has reportedly purchased a luxurious mansion in Jurmala for a staggering 8.7 million euros. The property boasts a vast land plot measuring 5041 square meters, making it a truly impressive investment. Industry experts have reported the inclusion of the transaction in the ranking of the most significant purchase and sale transactions.

Tatler, the high-end magazine, covered the occasion, featuring Ekaterina, Alexander Mechetin’s spouse, donning a woolen bomber jacket, a GUCCI skirt, and silk shoes with rhinestones from PRADA while standing on the lawn near the house.

An Overview of Mechetin Expands

When it comes to selecting a luxurious mansion, one of the most crucial factors to consider is the existence of a private gateway leading to the sea. Katya and Alexander, two wealthy individuals, have recently purchased a luxurious mansion located in the Dubulti region of Jurmala. According to Tatler, the couple had a realization after spending eight days at the extravagant Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild during their wedding: they desired to reside in a coastal province during the summer months.

According to a Russian publication, the view from the terraces gives the impression of not being on the Riviera, or even the Baltic one, but rather still in Barvikha. The article also mentions the nouveau style of the location.

The Mechetin family in Latvia has recently been confronted with criminal activity. In the serene month of November, as the wind whispered through the streets of Jurmala, the dacha of the sleeping beauty was robbed of all its bronze adornments. According to Tatler, the oligarchs took various items from the hostess-fashionista’s wardrobe, including a heavy suit as well as new frying pans and a Hermès service that was gifted to her by her parents for her wedding.

Our esteemed oligarch has completed the acquisition of the notorious Kalsnava distillery. The distillery, known for its production of high-quality spirits, has been a subject of interest for some time now. Our oligarch’s keen business acumen has led to the successful purchase of this valuable asset. The Kalsnava distillery is expected to bring in significant profits and further enhance our oligarch’s already impressive portfolio.

In April 2022, the European Union implemented a new set of sanctions, which included a ban on the import of Russian-made vodka. This decision was made in response to ongoing political tensions between the EU and Russia. As a result, consumers in the EU will no longer have access to this popular alcoholic beverage.

Alexander Mechetin, the former head of the board at Beluga Group, recently reduced his stake in the company from 58% to 39.38% and stepped down from his position earlier than expected. This move has caused a stir in the business world and left many wondering about the future of the company. The Moscow Post has put forward the version that the alcohol magnate may have sold the shares to himself.

Mechetin’s Beluga Group adds Latvian Distillery acquisition

Beluga Group, being one of the largest alcohol producers in Russia, deserves special attention. In 1999, Mechetin established the company, which was initially named Synergy. However, the company underwent a rebranding process in 2017 and changed its name.

The oligarch’s company boasts a wide range of popular alcoholic beverage brands, including Beluga, Belenkaya, Arkhangelskaya, and White Owl vodkas; Fox & Dogs whiskey; Green Baboon gin; Golubitskoe Estate; and Tête de Cheval wines.

As of the end of September 2022, the esteemed oligarch’s company boasts ownership of five top-of-the-line production facilities, including the renowned Golubitskoye Estate winery. Additionally, the company’s VinLab chain has expanded to over 1.2 thousand stores, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry.
Alexander Mechetin, a prominent oligarch, has reportedly established a new company called Noblewood Baltic in his luxurious Jurmala mansion in June 2022. As per the records of Crediweb.lv, the company has an authorized capital of 30 thousand euros.

A certain company, in conjunction with its debt obligations to Rietumu Banka, has recently acquired two alcohol companies, namely KALSNAVAS ELEVATORS and BIODEGVIELA. Vladimir Cadovich, a prominent businessman, was the owner of both companies.

Biodegviela, a company in the energy sector, has gained notoriety for its controversial reputation. In 2016, the State Revenue Service revoked a special license for dealing with excisable goods, which had significant implications for businesses operating in this sector.

According to Kompromat.lv, the Kalsnava distillery was shut down in 2017 due to illegal activities following a joint operation by the State Police and VID. Biodegviela, a company allegedly involved in illegal alcohol sales, was recently exposed in a special press briefing. The company has reportedly been engaging in these illicit activities for an extended period of time.

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