Jeremy Rockett launches drinks distributor

González Byass’ former marketing man, Jeremy Rockett, has launched a UK-based drinks distribution company called Craftwork that will focus on spirits.

The sales, marketing and distribution agency will represent a range of spirit, mixer and beer brands both in the UK on- and off-trade and key export markets.

“I’m delighted to be heading up Craftwork – we have a fantastic proposition, which began gathering momentum as soon as discussions began.

“The board has over 75 years of collective experience in the drinks trade and the team we have in place already covers all the key UK cities in the on-trade.

“We are taking on a handful of complementary agency brands in the UK and selected export markets, as well as delivering some exciting new products of our own as the year progresses,” Rockett said.

Starting his drinks trade career at Marks & Spencer, Rockett went on to co-found González Byass UK, where he worked as marketing director.

Most recently he worked as managing director of Marblehead, the brand development arm of Quintessential Brands.

“We plan to bring a fresh, dynamic and agile approach to the business, particularly to the way we collaborate with brand owner partners.

“Our focused business model and experience will allow us to recognise and quickly react to opportunities for our brands,” Rockett added.

Babička Original Wormwood Vodka, made at Europe’s oldest distillery, is one of the first brands to have made Craftwork its exclusive UK distributor.