# Food Culture Inc. Enters Negotiations to Acquire Grupo Austero
***Potential acquisition would broaden product access and support expansion of the Company's branded spirits portfolio***
**TORONTO, ON /** [**ACCESS Newswire**](https://www.accessnewswire.com/) **/ September 17, 2026 /** Food Culture Inc. (OTCID:FCUL) ("FCUL" or the "Company") today announced that it has entered into negotiations regarding the potential acquisition of Grupo Austero LLC and is working with the counterparties to finalize the terms of a proposed letter of intent. No letter of intent or definitive acquisition agreement has been executed.
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FCUL's objective is to broaden access to spirits products and production relationships that could support its existing branded portfolio and future product introductions.
**Grupo Austero and the Austero Product Range**
Grupo Austero's business includes the Austero tequila and mezcal product lines. Austero's published product information describes its mezcal as produced in San Juan del Río, Oaxaca, Mexico, with a range comprising Espadín, Tobalá and Cupreata expressions. The range is described as 100% agave and additive-free, using traditional methods including earthen-pit roasting, fermentation in wooden vats and copper-pot distillation.
FCUL is evaluating how these products and the associated commercial relationships could complement the marketing and product-development activities of its operating subsidiary, Distill Brands International ("DBI"). Due diligence will include confirmation of the brand rights, supply arrangements and distribution relationships that would form part of any proposed transaction.
For information about the Austero mezcal range, visit [www.austeromezcal.com](https://pr.report/qel9).
**Supporting Portfolio Expansion**
FCUL's strategy focuses on brand development, marketing, product formats and access to established production capabilities. The Company is evaluating acquisitions and commercial relationships that could expand its product offering while maintaining disciplined investment in production infrastructure.
The objective of the Grupo Austero discussions is to assess whether the business could broaden FCUL's access to tequila and mezcal products for existing brands and planned portfolio expansion. The scope of any acquisition, including the assets, contractual rights, liabilities and capital requirements involved, remains under review.
"Our focus is on expanding the products and commercial relationships available to support our branded portfolio," said Ruben Yakubov, President and director. "We are actively working to advance the Grupo Austero discussions. Any transaction must be supported by satisfactory due diligence and terms that make sense for the Company."
**Status of Grupo Austero Discussions**
The parties are working toward agreement on the terms of a proposed letter of intent. Financial and operational due diligence remains ongoing, including review of Grupo Austero's financial statements, inventory, liabilities, ownership and material agreements.
Any acquisition would remain subject to satisfactory completion of due diligence, negotiation and execution of definitive agreements, and applicable approvals. There can be no assurance that the parties will execute a letter of intent, reach a definitive agreement or complete a transaction. Transaction terms will be disclosed as appropriate as negotiations progress and as required by applicable disclosure obligations.
[https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/food-culture-inc-enters-negotiations-120000133.html](https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/food-culture-inc-enters-negotiations-120000133.html)
