Suntory Global Spirits has launched its first standalone commercial business in the UK, led by Nick Temperley, Managing Director for UK, Ireland & Eastern Europe.
This means the drinks giant now has its own team on the ground to market its brands in the UK, rather than use a third-party distributor.
The company has held several distilling operations in the UK for some time, as the producer of Laphroaig, Bowmore, Ardmore, Auchentoshan, Glen Garioch and Ardray Scotch whiskies, as well as London’s Sipsmith gin. Its portfolio also includes Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark bourbon, Hibiki and Yamazaki Japanese whisky, and Roku gin.
The launch of the distribution business will significantly increase its UK headcount, across its central London head office and additional sites in Scotland and other key locations. Temperley will be supported by an experienced UK management team, with decades of experience in consumer goods.
