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Company solidifies US leadership bench, announces new US sales team appointments to bolster commercial excellence and execution
NEW YORK – March 21, 2024 – Beam Suntory, a world leader in premium spirits, today announced that John Alvarado has been named the company’s US Chief Brands Officer, effective April 8. Alvarado will be based in Chicago and is charged with leveraging the heritage and quality of Beam Suntory’s beloved brands to expand and deepen the company’s connections with the next generation of spirits drinkers across the US.
In addition to building brand equity to drive short- and long-term growth across Beam Suntory’s impressive US portfolio, which among many include Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark® bourbons, Hornitos® and Tres Generaciones® tequilas and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails, Alvarado will oversee brand performance and ensure insight-driven focus on strategic categories and markets. Alvarado will report to Jessica Spence, President, North America.
“As Beam Suntory endeavors to become the World’s Most Admired Premium Spirits Company, we need leaders who understand the special role that both our new and iconic brands play in people’s lives and American culture,” said Jessica Spence, President of North America at Beam Suntory. “John brings an unmatched understanding of US consumers and communities to the role of US Chief Brands Officer. His award-winning work demonstrates his capacity to use the art of storytelling to drive business results and I am very confident that his leadership will allow us to further leverage the authentic connections behind our beloved products.”
In a career spanning more than 25 years, Alvarado has held senior brand marketing roles at Keurig Dr. Pepper and Constellation Brands. Notably, he contributed to 44 consecutive quarters of growth for Constellation Brands and developed a portfolio of brands based on differentiated positioning and unique stories, earning multiple awards, including EFFIEs, Addys, One Show Pencils and Cannes Lions Awards. His appointment marks a homecoming for the industry veteran, as he previously led end-to-end brand and product strategy at Beam Brands Company, and helped develop the first US multicultural commercial plan, among other achievements. He brings deep knowledge of US Hispanic and Latin American markets. He is the former chair of the board of the International Latino Cultural Center and serves on the board for After-School All-Stars North Texas.
“I’m thrilled to be returning to the Beam Suntory family at such an exciting time for the spirits world, with innovation creating new categories and enhancing quality and experiences across American whiskey, tequila and RTDs,” said Alvarado. “As a brand marketer this presents a large opportunity to engage American consumers of different ages and backgrounds. It’s an honor to lead this talented team as we continue driving growth with loyal and new consumers alike across such an iconic portfolio.”
Beam Suntory also recently appointed several new sales leaders to its US business to strengthen commercial excellence and execution, all reporting to Dave Turo, US Chief Commercial Officer:
About Beam Suntory
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires the brilliance of life by delivering great consumer experiences through its world-class portfolio of brands. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam®, Maker's Mark®, Basil Hayden® and Knob Creek® bourbons; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Teacher's, Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Beam Suntory also produces leading brands such as Courvoisier® cognac, Tres Generaciones®, El Tesoro® and Hornitos® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, Canadian Club® whisky, and is a world leader in ready-to-drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.
A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in more than 30 countries, one of Beam Suntory's core values is Growing for Good and through its Proof Positive sustainability strategy, the company has committed to ambitious goals and investments to promote environmental sustainability in its operations, ensure the company has a positive impact on the communities where employees live and work, and programs to educate and inform consumers to make the right personal choices about drinking. Headquartered in New York City, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.
For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.
New gift represents Beam Suntory’s continued commitment to the James B. Beam Institute’s mission of advancing the spirits industry in Kentucky and beyond.
LEXINGTON, Ky. (March 4, 2024) — The University of Kentucky James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits and Beam Suntory, a global leader in premium spirits, have renewed their strategic partnership to help strengthen Kentucky’s signature industry for generations to come. The continued partnership between Beam Suntory and the University of Kentucky will ensure the Institute continues to offer unparalleled expertise for teaching and research.
Beam Suntory will donate $7.5 million to be paid over a 10-year period. An additional $1.875 million in funding for the Institute will be provided through the Commonwealth of Kentucky Research Challenge Trust Fund (RCTF) Endowment Match Program, subject to approval by the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education.
“This gift will continue to advance Kentucky’s signature industry by funding research to address systemic challenges facing the spirits industry globally, such as energy and water reduction, improving distilling, maturation and bottling techniques for greater efficiency and implementing scalable and sustainable agricultural practices,” said Seth DeBolt, James B. Beam Institute Director and professor at the UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. “It’s an incredible opportunity to identify and share best practices with partners and distillers globally and show students the breadth of opportunities within the spirits industry.”
Beam Suntory’s investment provides funding for an endowed chair and professorships, which will further support the Institute’s mission to lead the global advancement of the American whiskey industry though workforce education, scientific discovery, environmental sustainability, community and social responsibility.
The Institute will also work with industry partners to expand best-in-class responsibility programming, such as that offered at The Learning Bar, which can be used at other colleges and universities, and thereby broadening its expertise and reach beyond Kentucky. The endowed funding will allow the Institute to expand student enrollment by 50 percent, creating a robust pipeline of future leaders in the spirits industry.
“The ongoing partnership between the University of Kentucky and Beam Suntory reflects one of our core values – Growing for Good – by committing to investing in the future of bourbon and the professional and economic opportunities it provides,” said Greg Hughes, President and CEO at Beam Suntory. “We’re proud to have such a strong partnership in not only advancing the industry today, but also in training the next generation of distillers, creating more opportunity and representation, in bourbon and beyond.”
Beam Suntory and UK established their strategic partnership in 2019 with the formation of the Institute. Since then, Beam Suntory has provided nearly $6 million in funding, which has helped fund numerous initiatives to support the future of distilling education, including:
"In extending our deepest gratitude to Beam Suntory for their generous contribution, we recognize not only their pivotal role in supporting the bourbon industry but also their unwavering commitment to our institute's mission,” said Nancy Cox, vice president of Land-grant Engagement and Dean of Martin-Gatton CAFE. “This gift strengthens our ability to address industry challenges and reinforces our dedication to preparing future leaders who will drive the spirits industry forward.”
As a land-grant institution, UK is committed to the citizens and industries in the Commonwealth.
The James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits is a multidisciplinary effort of experts from the UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, UK Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering, UK College of Arts and Sciences and UK Gatton College for Business and Economics. In partnership with Beam Suntory, it continues to advance the next generation of distillers — ensuring the welfare and prosperity of Kentucky’s spirits industry and promoting Kentucky as the production and innovation capital of the bourbon industry.
The RCTF Endowment Match Program enhances private gifts such as Beam Suntory’s contribution aimed at STEM+H fields with an emphasis on economic development and creating new external research funding.
For more information, visit the Beam Institute website at https://beaminstitute.ca.uky.edu/.
About The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment
The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment is an Equal Opportunity Organization with respect to education and employment and authorization to provide research, education information and other services only to individuals and institutions that function without regard to economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, physical or mental disability or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.
About Beam Suntory
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires the brilliance of life by delivering great consumer experiences through its world-class portfolio of brands. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam®, Maker's Mark®, Basil Hayden® and Knob Creek® bourbons; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Teacher's, Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Beam Suntory also produces leading brands such as Courvoisier® cognac, Tres Generaciones®, El Tesoro® and Hornitos® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, Canadian Club® whisky, and is a world leader in ready-to-drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.
A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in more than 30 countries, one of Beam Suntory's core values is Growing for Good and through its Proof Positive sustainability strategy, the company has committed to ambitious goals and investments to promote environmental sustainability in its operations, ensure the company has a positive impact on the communities where employees live and work, and programs to educate and inform consumers to make the right personal choices about drinking. Headquartered in New York City, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.
For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.
About RCTF
The 2022 Kentucky General Assembly allocated $20 million dollars in RCTF funding to support endowment growth in the fields of science, technology, engineering, math, and health sciences (STEM+H) at UK for qualifying gifts. UK has approved RCTF funding at a 2:1 ratio, enabling more funding for transformative research efforts in the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment.
The RCTF program, administered by the Council on Postsecondary Education, provides Kentucky’s universities support with the goal of stimulating business development, generating increases in externally sponsored research, creating better jobs and a higher standard of living, and facilitating the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s transition to a knowledge-based economy.
“As a leader, I believe in investing in the next batch of leaders that are coming up after me. There are many junior employees at Beam Suntory that are doing some amazing things, and I believe it is important to create an environment where leaders can not only mentor young talent but learn from them as well. Honestly, I can be a bit of an intense mentor, which may rub people the wrong way at first. However, I believe it is my passion and drive to uplift people to be the best versions of themselves - based on their own definition - that allow me to make genuine connections and learn from so many individuals within the company.
It makes me feel good to be able to invest and push people to do their best. I tell people that my time is valuable, so if you come to me for mentorship, I need you to put your all into whatever you plan to do. Even with my daughters, I will push as hard as they push to achieve their goals. So, whether they want to practice their jump shot in basketball late at night or learn a new language, I am there to support and guide them, making the necessary sacrifices to ensure they achieve their ambitions. As a manager, I take the same approach. I know I’m responsible for my team’s development, so I’m always thinking of opportunities or projects they can work on to gain exposure, develop more skills and be better equipped to rise to the occasion when faced with new challenges.
I try to approach a lot of the things I do with a Yatte Minahare mindset – one of our Beam Suntory core values – which encourages us to put bold ideas in motion and be resourceful in overcoming challenges. I embody this mindset in my day-to-day life, and if I observe a process that’s not delivering results, I’ll come in and disrupt what’s not working and find innovative solutions to create change. I encourage my team and mentees to take on this mindset because it pushes them forward, ensuring success in their endeavors. I also believe Yatte Minahare is about being comfortable with the uncomfortable.
Throughout my life, I have had experiences where I had to be uncomfortable. For instance, 13 years ago, I left my role in which I had been recently promoted to be a trailing spouse in support of my wife’s career in Zurich, Switzerland. We had no connections to the language or culture and had no network. Despite struggling initially, I took German courses, learned about European culture, and joined a network of global expats, becoming a global citizen within a year. That experience helped shape me into the leader I am today, allowing me to have empathy and be authentic with everything I do. “
Iconic Bourbon Brand Partners with Leading Nonprofit Vital Voices and Artist Gayle Kabaker in Honor of Women’s History Month
LORETTO, KY (February 19, 2024) – Maker’s Mark, the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon, today announced its support of Vital Voices, a leading nonprofit investing in female leaders taking on the world’s greatest challenges, with a limited-edition label designed by renowned artist Gayle Kabaker. In honor of Women’s History Month, consumers are invited to order the complimentary Maker’s Mark label at makersmarkpersonalize.com and personalize it with the name of an inspirational woman in their lives.
“Vital Voices is thrilled to join Maker’s Mark in this collaboration to amplify the power of women,” said Alyse Nelson, President and CEO of Vital Voices. “We deeply appreciate their support in our mission to advance women leaders and our world.”
Gayle Kabaker, a longstanding partner of Vital Voices, has a history of creating art that showcases women who use their power to empower others and was inspired to illuminate the organization with Maker’s Mark. Kabaker’s limited-edition label depicts her interpretation of a spirited woman in acrylic gouache, inspired by the wildflowers of Kentucky and the colors of the Maker’s Mark palette.
“As a brand co-founded by my grandmother Margie Samuels more than 70 years ago, Maker’s Mark continues to be guided and grown by incredible women defining what's next in the industry,” said Rob Samuels, Managing Director of Maker’s Mark and 8th generation whisky maker. “We are privileged to continue our commitment to women making an impact in their communities and support the meaningful causes that drive Vital Voices.”
While Bill Samuels, Sr., Margie’s husband and Maker’s Mark co-founder, was focused on creating the highest-quality bourbon, he celebrated and empowered Margie to build the brand and brand experience – forever changing the course of spirits branding in the industry. The shape of the bottle, the look of the label, the signature red wax topper, and even the name are all thanks to Margie. Among the first women to be inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame, Margie also championed the importance of the Kentucky distillery’s aesthetic and emphasis on tourism, planting the seed for what is now the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
The ongoing contributions of women at Maker’s Mark can be seen in all aspects of the brand, from the product development and leadership of Star Hill Farm, the home of the Maker’s Mark Distillery, to the brand’s sustainability initiatives and global brand representation. While staying true to the founders’ flavor vision: a full-flavored, soft red winter wheat bourbon with a smooth finish, Maker’s Mark continues to shape the brand’s future through purposeful, flavor-driven innovation.
Throughout the year, consumers can create a custom Maker’s Mark gift for anyone with the brand’s personalized label program. Labels are currently available for 750mL bottles, which must be purchased separately and recipients must be 21+. For additional information about Maker’s Mark, please visit www.MakersMark.com and share your personalized label at @makersmark on Instagram.
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Media Contact:
Maker’s Mark // Katie Roberts
Katie.Roberts@BeamSuntory.com
EVINS Communications: Frauke Weston
Email: Frauke.Weston@evins.com
Phone: 347-703-1782
About Maker’s Mark®
In 1953, in Loretto, Ky. Bill Samuels, Sr., fulfilled his dream to create a handmade and delicious bourbon. He decided to make his whisky in small batches, using soft red winter wheat to enhance the softness and sweetness. He then rotated each barrel by hand for consistency and, finally, aged each barrel to taste. While he developed the bourbon, his wife Margie Samuels ideated the bourbon's name and label, standout bottle shape, iconic and signature look that still involves hand-dipping each bottle in red wax to this day. Together as co-founders, Bill and Margie transformed bourbon from a "commodity" into a premium handmade spirit, and today Maker's Mark® Kentucky Straight Bourbon continues to be crafted in the same, purposeful way.
In recent years, Maker's Mark has introduced thoughtful, super-premium innovations to its portfolio, including Maker's Mark 46®, Maker's Mark® Cask Strength, Maker's Mark® Private Selection and Maker’s Mark® Cellar Aged. Today, Maker's Mark is the largest bourbon distillery in the world to achieve B Corp Certification and the first distillery to achieve Regenified certification, a reflection of the brand's dedication towards building a more inclusive and sustainable economy. For more information, visit www.makersmark.com.
About Beam Suntory
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires the brilliance of life by delivering great consumer experiences through its world-class portfolio of brands. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam®, Maker’s Mark®, Basil Hayden® and Knob Creek® bourbons; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Teacher’s, Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Beam Suntory also produces leading brands such as Courvoisier® cognac, Tres Generaciones®, El Tesoro® and Hornitos® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, Canadian Club® whisky, and is a world leader in ready-to-drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.
A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in more than 30 countries, one of Beam Suntory’s core values is Growing for Good and through its Proof Positive sustainability strategy, the company has committed to ambitious goals and investments to promote environmental sustainability in its operations, ensure the company has a positive impact on the communities where employees live and work, and programs to educate and inform consumers to make the right personal choices about drinking. Headquartered in New York City, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.
WE MAKE OUR BOURBON CAREFULLY. PLEASE ENJOY IT THAT WAY.
Maker's Mark® Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky, 45% Alc./Vol. ©2024 Maker's Mark Distillery, Inc., Loretto, KY.
NEW YORK – February 16, 2024 – Beam Suntory, a world leader in premium spirits, today announced the company’s 2023 full year results, with net sales up 7% year on year and operating income up 13% versus 2022. The company continued to drive growth across key brands including Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark, and experienced strong demand for its award-winning Japanese whisky portfolio as the House of Suntory celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2023 with special limited-edition offerings.
“We are pleased with the results we delivered last year as our portfolio of brands – rooted in quality and craftsmanship – and our geographic diversity continued to benefit our business,” said Greg Hughes, President & CEO at Beam Suntory. “The House of Suntory’s 100th anniversary offerings generated incredible demand, and we saw strong performance globally across Japan, Emerging Asia and Global Travel Retail. While we faced some challenges as an industry, particularly in the US, as we look to 2024, we remain focused on our premiumization strategy and further building our credentials in the prestige and ultra-premium space.”
Performance by Brand
Jim Beam delivered 3% sales growth and Maker’s Mark grew 10% versus 2022 as the company maintained its leadership in the American Whiskey category. Japanese Whiskies, including Yamazaki and Hakushu, saw strong double-digit sales growth. Ready-To-Drink (RTD) offerings delivered around 12% sales growth, benefitting from strong sales on Lemon Sour and Jim Beam and Kakubin RTDs, and the global expansion of -196. The company recently announced additional expansion across the US, Europe and Southeast Asia for -196, an RTD brand that has seen great success in Japan and Australia. Tequila brand El Tesoro had a standout year with strong double-digit growth and Knob Creek delivered strong 10% growth.
The company announced in late 2023 that it had entered into a binding agreement with the Campari Group for the sale of Courvoisier cognac. The transaction is expected to close in 2024 and furthers Beam Suntory’s focus on key growth categories of premium plus American Whiskey, Tequila, Japanese Whisky and RTDs.
Performance by Geography
The company benefitted from geographic diversity as strong performance in Japan, Emerging Asia and Global Travel Retail (GTR) offset a challenging environment in North America and some key markets including India, China and Spain.
Focus on Strategic Priorities
Beam Suntory remains focused on its premiumization strategy as it works toward its ambition to be the World’s Most Admired Premium Spirits Company. To achieve this goal, the company continues to relentlessly pursue excellence in quality, brand-building and innovation, commercial capabilities and execution, and becoming an industry leader in Sustainability, Inclusivity and Responsibility.
Beam Suntory operates its business in line with its core values of Growing for Good and Giving Back to Society, and achieved important milestones across its Proof Positive sustainability strategy in 2023 including:
“In 2024, we will continue to advance our premiumization strategy and focus on key priorities including premium plus American Whiskey, Tequila, Japanese Spirits and RTDs,” Hughes continued. “I’m confident we have the right resources in the right places to put us in a position to win, and I’m encouraged by the signs we are already seeing at the start of this year as we expect consumer demand for spirits to remain strong. I’m very proud of how our teams around the world continue to deliver in service of our great brands and company.”
About Beam Suntory
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires the brilliance of life by delivering great consumer experiences through its world-class portfolio of brands. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam®, Maker's Mark®, Basil Hayden® and Knob Creek® bourbons; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Teacher's, Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Beam Suntory also produces leading brands such as Courvoisier® cognac, Tres Generaciones®, El Tesoro® and Hornitos® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, Canadian Club® whisky, and is a world leader in ready-to-drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.
A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in more than 30 countries, one of Beam Suntory's core values is Growing for Good and through its Proof Positive sustainability strategy, the company has committed to ambitious goals and investments to promote environmental sustainability in its operations, ensure the company has a positive impact on the communities where employees live and work, and programs to educate and inform consumers to make the right personal choices about drinking. Headquartered in New York City, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.
For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.
Contact
Allison McEneaney
Senior Director, Global Corporate Communications at Beam Suntory
allison.mceneaney@beamsuntory.com
The Strawberry Daiquiri RTD marks On The Rocks' growing portfolio as the 10th permanent offering
NEW YORK, Feb. 1, 2024 -- On The Rocks Premium Cocktails, the ready-to-serve cocktail brand developed by bartenders, has kicked off 2024 with its 10th permanent offering – The Strawberry Daiquiri, available nationally now.
On The Rocks reimagined a modern, contemporary take on the Strawberry Daiquiri, expertly blending premium ingredients for a refined cocktail experience ready-to-drink wherever you are. This refreshing mix of lush strawberry, tart lime, and smooth Cruzan® Rum delivers a perfectly balanced, vibrant result – like sunshine in a bottle. Just pour over ice and enjoy.
"On The Rocks is a leader in the premium-plus bottled cocktail segment because of the dynamic and upscale drink experiences we have brought to consumers," said Krista Kiisk, Marketing Director of On The Rocks at Beam Suntory. "The launch of our Strawberry Daiquiri builds on our success with the Classic Daiquiri Cocktail, further showcasing our commitment to taste, complexity, and the craftsmanship you would find at an elevated cocktail bar, in a convenient RTD bottle."
This new tropical spin is the tenth offering in the On The Rocks Cocktails craft-made lineup. With the goal of offering a portfolio that serves something for everyone, this rum-forward addition feeds the rising consumer tastes for tropical flavors, recently reported as the top trending profile for 2024 by Flavor Sum with conversations about 'tropical flavors' increasing 65% in the last year.1 Bring a taste of the tiki bar to your home bar, without any of the hassle.
The On The Rocks Strawberry Daiquiri is available now in 750ml, 375ml, and 200mL PET at 20% ABV nationwide. For additional information about On The Rocks, please visit www.ontherockscocktails.com or follow the brand on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
About On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails
On The Rocks Premium Cocktails was founded in 2015 when a group of restaurateurs left the world of fine dining and embarked upon creating a line of craft-made ready-to-serve bottled cocktails using only the most premium natural ingredients – from recipe to manufacturing. The founders pioneered in experiences and places where a bartender was not available, and elevated beverage options in settings where convenience is in demand.
On The Rocks Cocktails established itself early in the field with premium collaborations in the airline and hotel industries. Life doesn't wait for the bar; some moments call for a complex drink in an unconventional setting. On The Rocks Cocktails was crafted to rise to your occasion and bring the bar to you. On The Rocks is currently available nationwide in now ten popular cocktails including all-new The Strawberry Daiquiri, The Aviation, The Cosmopolitan, The Jalapeño Pineapple Margarita, The Mai Tai, The Manhattan, The Espresso Martini, The Classic Daiquiri, Margarita, and The Old Fashioned.
About Beam Suntory
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires the brilliance of life by delivering great consumer experiences through its world-class portfolio of brands. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam®, Maker's Mark®, Basil Hayden® and Knob Creek® bourbons; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Teacher's, Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Beam Suntory also produces leading brands such as Courvoisier® cognac, Tres Generaciones®, El Tesoro® and Hornitos® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, Canadian Club® whisky, and is a world leader in ready-to-drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.
A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in more than 30 countries, one of Beam Suntory's core values is Growing for Good and through its Proof Positive sustainability strategy, the company has committed to ambitious goals and investments to promote environmental sustainability in its operations, ensure the company has a positive impact on the communities where employees live and work, and programs to educate and inform consumers to make the right personal choices about drinking. Headquartered in New York City, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.
“I work with people from all over the world and it’s fascinating to be able to experience firsthand the diversity and culture of my own team.
Over the past few years, I’ve learned a lot about my teammates by virtually seeing their lives through our conversations – whether it’s been a meeting with a colleague where their cat is happily plopped in their lap, or a teammate’s partner popping their head into view for a quick ‘hello.’ Connecting personally with my team has deepened my understanding of their cultures and how we work together, contributing to our shared success.
In 2021, I was asked to Co-lead the Culture and Racial Awareness workstream – a natural calling for me as it aligned with my curiosity about other cultures and learning from my colleagues. Our global team collaborated to create a culture map, sharing cultural norms for different nationalities in professional and personal settings, then held learning sessions to introduce each country's cultural norms to an international audience.
I've found it fascinating to discover these nuances, such as spending time talking about personal lives before business discussions in Chinese culture or ensuring a good long catch-up in a more casual environment in Spanish culture. These things might seem small but make a huge difference when it comes to connecting with people and are very insightful when conducting business in local markets. We always want to make sure that our product offerings are resonating locally.
Understanding my team’s culture has also helped me become a more empathetic and effective manager, which is in line with one of our company values of Growing for Good, which means being committed to growing as a company and as an individual, and know I have a better framework for effectively managing each of my team members as they seek to grow their own careers.
My goal is to continue to expand this workstream and my global team’s knowledge around different countries and cultures. We’re currently working on the new culture buddy program and building on the culture map/multicultural mindset by making it a part of the global onboarding. Beam Suntory is truly a global business, which provides incredible opportunities to expand our worldview – and I want to continue to take advantage of that.”
- Mani Shukla, Regional Commercial Marketing Manager, India
Succeeds company veteran Paula Erickson who will retire on April 1
New York, NY – January 17, 2024 – Beam Suntory, a world leader in premium spirits, today announced that Sarah Langley has been appointed Senior Vice President, Chief People, Culture & Communications Officer, succeeding Paula Erickson, who will retire on April 1, 2024, following a successful 15-year career with the company.
“On behalf of Suntory Holdings CEO Tak Niinami and the Beam Suntory Board of Directors, I want to extend my sincere thanks to Paula for her many contributions to our business as we’ve evolved and grown over the past 15 years. Paula is a generous, passionate and people-centric leader who has had a tremendous impact on this organization, especially as we’ve undergone significant transformation as a company,” said Greg Hughes, President and CEO at Beam Suntory. “I’ve personally appreciated her partnership through the years and especially as I have stepped into the CEO role over the past several months.”
Erickson joined the company in 2008 leading Corporate Communications and Public Relations, and in 2014 following the acquisition by Suntory Holdings, she was tapped to join the executive team as Chief Human Resources Officer. During her tenure, the company experienced tremendous growth, with sales nearly tripled and the company’s talent pool growing from 2,400 to around 6,500 employees across 100 markets. Under Erickson’s leadership, the company has accelerated its diversity, equity and inclusion ambitions, step changed its benefits offerings, achieved “Best Place to Work” rankings around the world, adeptly navigated through the COVID pandemic, and built a best-in-class Global Human Resources and Communications team.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the career journey I’ve had at Beam Suntory and could not have imagined all the accomplishments we would achieve together to grow our business and advance our special culture,” said Erickson. “I’m very thankful to Greg for his leadership and friendship, and I have great confidence in Sarah’s leadership as she takes the reins to lead the people side of our business well into the future.”
With a career spanning 20 years at Suntory, Langley started in 2004 at Frucor, the company’s beverage arm in Oceania, where she ultimately served as Chief People and Communications Officer from 2008 to 2018. She was then promoted to Suntory Holdings Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Global HR, based in Tokyo, where she spearheaded the global talent agenda across Suntory’s companies. Since 2020, Langley has been serving in a hybrid Suntory and Beam Suntory role as Chief Operating Officer, Global People & Culture, and as Beam Suntory’s Vice President HR Asia Pacific, where she has been instrumental in building the company’s talent, capability and engagement in the region.
“Sarah is a strong and experienced leader who is well positioned to lead our People, Culture and Communications function as we position our company for continued growth and further our ambition to be the World’s Most Admired Premium Spirits Company,” Hughes added.
Langley will be responsible for the company’s global talent strategy, compensation and benefits, culture, learning capability and employee engagement, diversity and inclusion, organizational development and corporate communications. She will report directly to Greg Hughes and serve on the company’s executive leadership team.
A native of New Zealand, Langley earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Psychology and a Master of Arts in Industrial Psychology from Massey University in Auckland. She started her career in consulting with Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu and Sheffield Limited in Oceania before joining Frucor. Langley will be based at Beam Suntory’s global headquarters in New York City.
About Beam Suntory
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires the brilliance of life by delivering great consumer experiences through its world-class portfolio of brands. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam®, Maker's Mark®, Basil Hayden® and Knob Creek® bourbons; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Teacher's, Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Beam Suntory also produces leading brands such as Courvoisier® cognac, Tres Generaciones®, El Tesoro® and Hornitos® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, Canadian Club® whisky, and is a world leader in ready-to-drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.
A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in more than 30 countries, one of Beam Suntory's core values is Growing for Good and through its Proof Positive sustainability strategy, the company has committed to ambitious goals and investments to promote environmental sustainability in its operations, ensure the company has a positive impact on the communities where employees live and work, and programs to educate and inform consumers to make the right personal choices about drinking. Headquartered in New York City, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.
For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.
Contact
Allison McEneaney
Senior Director, Global Corporate Communications at Beam Suntory
allison.mceneaney@beamsuntory.com
New commercial business launched on January 1st, with a full team and a new office in Paris
Paris, France (11 January 2024) – Beam Suntory, a global leader in premium spirits with a portfolio of iconic brands including Jim Beam®, Maker's Mark®, Yamazaki®, Hibiki®, Roku™, Bowmore® and Laphroaig®, confirms that Beam Suntory France officially launched on January 1st, 2024. The company is now directly responsible for the marketing and distribution of its portfolio in France.
This follows the company’s previous announcement in September sharing its plans to launch its own commercial entity in the country. The establishment of Beam Suntory France will support the company’s global strategic focus on building its premium portfolio and will strengthen its position in this dynamic European market.
Anne Miller, General Manager of Beam Suntory France, said: “We want to be the leader in premium whisky in France, and we are proud to be able to bring legendary brands like Yamazaki, Hibiki, Laphroaig, Bowmore and Maker’s Mark directly to our customers. We have built a strong, experienced team in Paris, and we are looking forward to building a successful premium business together.
“Paris is a global luxury capital and France is the leading whisky market in Europe. With direct control over our brands in our market, we’ll be able to bring even more value to our customers, operate with greater agility and direct market insights, and ultimately accelerate growth and build brand power in this important market,” Miller added.
In preparation for this month’s launch, Beam Suntory has recruited an experienced team in Paris and built key in-market capabilities. Beam Suntory France now comprises a team of approximately 30 people across Sales, Marketing, Finance and Supply Chain. A seasoned management team has been assembled under Anne Miller’s leadership, including Elodie Pomykala (Head of Marketing), Henri Charpentier (Head of Sales), Benoit Vaguer (Head of Supply Chain), and Svetlana Makarova (Head of Finance). Between them, this team brings several decades of experience from across leading global FMCG and premium spirits companies, including Diageo, Pernod Ricard, Moët Hennessy, Danone, Unilever, Reckitt and Kellogg’s.
Yuri Grebenkin, President International, Beam Suntory, commented: “The launch of Beam Suntory France represents a significant expansion of Beam Suntory’s footprint in Europe, and is an indication of our long-term confidence in the French market and the potential for our portfolio of premium brands. As Beam Suntory’s global footprint continues to mature and expand, we are excited about the future as we aim to become the World’s Most Admired Premium Spirits Company.”
About Beam Suntory
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires the brilliance of life by delivering great consumer experiences through its world-class portfolio of brands. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam®, Maker's Mark®, Basil Hayden® and Knob Creek® bourbons; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Teacher's, Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Beam Suntory also produces leading brands such as Courvoisier® cognac, Tres Generaciones®, El Tesoro® and Hornitos® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, Canadian Club® whisky, and is a world leader in ready-to-drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.
A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in more than 30 countries, one of Beam Suntory's core values is Growing for Good and through its Proof Positive sustainability strategy, the company has committed to ambitious goals and investments to promote environmental sustainability in its operations, ensure the company has a positive impact on the communities where employees live and work, and programs to educate and inform consumers to make the right personal choices about drinking. Headquartered in New York City, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.
For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.
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