Komerz, backed by Indian billionaire Siddharth Shankar, is competing with Tesco to acquire UK wine retailer Majestic Wine, in a potential deal worth several hundred million pounds as Fortress Investment Group explores a sale. According to a report by Sky News published on October 9, 2026, the UK-based distribution platform is among the bidders seeking to acquire Majestic from its current owner, Fortress Investment Group. Industry sources cited by Sky News described Komerz as a serious contender in the sale process, with the company declining to comment on its interest when approached by Sky News.
The potential transaction is expected to be worth several hundred million pounds, although the value of individual bids has not been disclosed. As reported by Sky News, a formal auction process began several weeks ago and is being overseen by investment bank Rothschild. Komerz's entry follows reports that Tesco is also considering a takeover of Majestic Wine, setting up a direct competition between the two major retailers.
Founded in 2023, Komerz describes itself as an AI-powered platform combining commerce, marketing, data and distribution. According to Sky News, the company has previously indicated that it was undertaking a funding round valuing the business at £500 million. Its acquisition of Great Wines Direct last year is understood to have strengthened its interest in expanding its presence in the wine sector and encouraged it to make a competitive offer for Majestic. The company has also acquired businesses outside the drinks industry, including haircare brand NOUGHTY and brand and marketing consultancy Glassbox.
Majestic Wine operates more than 200 stores across the UK and Jersey, employing over 1,000 people. As reported by Sky News, its business extends beyond retail stores to include wholesale distribution to hospitality establishments. Fortress Investment Group acquired most of Majestic's business for £95 million in 2019, when the retailer was separated from Naked Wines, its online wine retail sibling. Since the acquisition, Fortress has invested in expanding the store network, improving product ranges and developing the retailer's online presence, with Majestic opening more than 20 additional stores under Fortress's ownership.
The auction comes as Fortress explores its options for the retailer following several years of investment and expansion. According to Sky News, a sale could attract interest from both established retailers and businesses seeking to increase their presence in the drinks market. For Tesco, acquiring Majestic would expand its reach in specialist wine retailing and provide access to an established network of stores and commercial customers. For Komerz, the deal would offer an opportunity to build on its existing wine business and expand its distribution capabilities, though neither bidder has publicly detailed its plans for Majestic. The outcome of the auction remains uncertain as both companies compete for one of the UK's largest specialist wine retailers.
