How Nestle sale impacts Michigan water permit dispute

The years-long saga surrounding Nestlé and its Michigan groundwater withdrawals comes to an end – in a way – as Nestlé withdraws from the situation, selling its North American water brands to another corporation.

Nestlé announced this week that it unloaded a number of U.S. and Canadian brands, including Poland Spring Brand 100 percent Natural Spring Water, Ice Mountain Brand 100 percent Natural Spring Water and Pure Life.

These brands are notable in the Great Lakes region, not just because residents see them in grocery stores but because of a contentious permit case that brought to the forefront many of the concerns locals have over water withdrawals and their potential impact.

The change in ownership does not erase the conflict regarding the water withdrawals, as the permit in question does not end with Nestlé. The permit “is transferable to the new owner,” according to EGLE Strategic Communications Advisor Scott Dean.

Private-equity firm One Rock Capital Partners has acquired the brands together with investment firm Metropoulos & Co. for $4.3 billion. Other brands that Metropoulos & Co. have acquired and revived include Hostess and Pabst Brewing Company.

Read more: https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-environment-watch/how-nestle-sale-impacts-michigan-water-permit-dispute