Premium beverage maker East Imperial has announced a new distribution partnership with Hancocks. The beer, wine and spirits distributor took over exclusive New Zealand distribution of East Imperial’s portfolio this month.
The new distribution partnership will offer extensive nationwide reach into multiple new channels including Duty Free, and position it alongside complementary spirits brands, including Hancocks’ 13 current gin brands.
Hancocks plans to engage grocery and traditional liquor stores nationwide. “East Imperial offers Hancocks and our world class gin portfolio a platform to raise the quality of mixed beverages served in bars, restaurants and homes throughout the country,” says Joe Jakicevich, Hancocks Managing Director. “We are proud to help make East Imperial available nationwide and look forward to building upon their international success.”
The distribution agreement comes at an exciting time for the business, which has experienced rapid international growth since it was founded in 2013 by friends and business partners Tony Burt and Kevin Law-Smith. “We’re thrilled to be working with Hancocks,” says Burt. “The partnership offers exciting opportunity as we prepare to expand both locally and off-shore.”
East Imperial is now available in 31 countries including Australia, Hong Kong, USA, UK, China and Dubai, including some of the world’s most prestigious retail spaces, hotels, restaurants and bars, including Raffles, The Dorchester, The Savoy, Soho House Group, Fairmont Hotel Group and Harrod’s.
The range has expanded rapidly and now comprises seven premium mixers, including Old World Tonic Water, Burma Tonic Water, Yuzu Tonic Water, Grapefruit Tonic Water, Ginger Ale, Ginger Beer and Soda Water, with several new flavours in development.
East Imperial is currently available from www.eastimperial.com, Farro Fresh food markets, Glengarry and celebrated bars and restaurants locally, with additional stockists to be confirmed this year.
