Rémy Cointreau ends First Drinks distribution deal

Rémy Cointreau has set up its own distribution company, bringing to an end its five-year distribution agreement in the UK with First Drinks Brands.

The new company, called Rémy Cointreau UK Distribution Company, will take over from First Drinks on 31 March 2014, the two companies have been working together on a transition plan for when the deal ends.

Spyros Ghikas, managing director of Rémy Cointreau Europe, Africa and Middle East region said: “We would like to thank First Drinks for its efforts in building the Rémy Cointreau portfolio over the last five years and we wish them well for the future.”

Early in 2013, Rémy Cointreau set up the distribution company as its own route to market in the UK for The Botanist Gin and Bruichladdich, which the company bought in 2012.

“We are very proud of the fantastic results we have delivered in building the Rémy Cointreau brands over the last five years,” First Drinks’ managing director Chris Mason said.

“First Drinks has enjoyed a long and successful relationship with Rémy Cointreau and we wish them success for their new venture in the UK. Our focus going forward will be to do what we do best: build premium brands,” Mason added.

The two companies added that they “will work closely over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition and support customers within the UK.”