Distell in key European growth markets
2006-12-19
DISTELL is to become the exclusive South African wine supplier to the Altia Corporation, an international multi-beverage company that operates in the Nordic states, where it is the market leader, as well as in the emergent Baltic markets.
Both regions in Europe continue to reflect robust demand for South African wines, despite the fall-off in some markets such as the UK and Holland, according to statistics for the 12 months to October 2006, released by SA Wine Industry Systems (SAWIS).
Distell’s director: international, Don Gallow, said the agreement with Altia meant that Distell drive brands such as Nederburg, Two Oceans, Drostdy-Hof, Fleur du Cap, Zonnebloem and Durbanville Hills would be able to advance an already strong presence in Sweden, Norway and Finland, as well as in newer markets such as Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania. Altia already represents Amarula Cream.
Altia, established in 1888, is based in Finland. It manufactures or imports, markets and distributes a portfolio of premium wines, beers and spirits and also supplies duty-free outlets throughout the Nordic and Baltic countries. Recording net sales of €423m (about R3,9bn) for the 2005 financial year, it acquired, warehoused and delivered 105 million litres of beverages last year. Amongst the beverages it produces is Finlandia Vodka.
Gallow said that with Altia’s highly sophisticated and extensive logistics infrastructure and distribution network, it would be possible to service these important export markets with greater efficiency.
“We look forward to working with Altia, with whom we share many core values. Like Distell, the company places great focus on ongoing quality and innovation, while investing, building and protecting its brands. Strongly entrepreneurial, Altia plans to expand its leadership position in the Nordic states to the Baltic countries. This gives us every confidence in the future of our relationship.”
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