Spanish beer maker Hijos de Rivera is set to take a 32% stake in The Carlow Brewing Company, the makers of O'Hara's beers.

The finances behind the deal have not been disclosed, the firm has been selling O'Hara beers in Spain for two years.

Seamus O’Hara

"We have spent the last two years developing our connection with the brewery since they became our Spanish importer, and this gives me great confidence they can make a significant contribution to the future success of Carlow Brewing Company, especially in helping us develop new and existing export markets for our beer and cider," Carlow Brewing Company chief executive, Seamus O’Hara, commented.

"I think we can learn a lot from them, but we can also bring an entrepreneurial spirit and knowledge of the craft beer sector to the partnership," he continued.

The Carlow Brewing Company was established in 1996 - giving it a headstart over its local craft competitors.

Hijos de Rivera is best known for making Estrella Galicia lager. Its beers account for 6% of the Spanish beer market.

Ignacio Rivera, CEO of the Galician brewery has commented, "Hijos de Rivera shares many similarities with Carlow Brewing Company, both companies are pioneers with a rich family tradition and culture.

"Our goal isn’t to sell the most beer but to sell the beer that is most loved and valued by the consumer, and that’s why Carlow Brewing Company and Hijos de Rivera are a perfect fit as both companies are passionate about beer."