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“As a leader responsible for over 6,000 employees globally, I lead with my heart. But to be honest, I didn’t expect my career to go into Human Resources. I was asked to step in as Chief Human Resources Officer in 2014, just as Suntory Holdings had acquired Beam. I struggled with this career decision at first. Up until that point, my career had always been focused on corporate communications, public relations, advertising and brand development, so HR would be a new world to me. However, I’m always up for a good challenge, and I’m a firm believer that when a door opens you need to seize the opportunity. Once I took on the role, I never looked back.
I had much to learn as I stepped into this executive role, and I also had to find ways to juggle work and home life as a wife and mom to three children. To skill up, I quickly expanded my network and went back to school, attending an executive HR management course at the University of Michigan. As my children have gotten older, they’ve expressed how I’ve been a role model for them – being able to have a successful family, marriage and career. I owe a great deal of that success to the support of my incredible husband, Kurt, of 25 years and the trusting relationships I’ve formed with my colleagues over the last 15 years.
My personal experience as a working parent is the reason I’ve passionately championed for our people as the head of our People, Culture and Communications team. One of my proudest accomplishments was rolling out our global parental leave policy, which includes six months paid leave for our primary care givers. Most companies don't offer anything close to that, especially in the US, and I love that this has made such a huge difference for our families. I can't even begin to tell you the amazing notes I get from some of our parents who have tapped into the parental benefits that we offer. It lets me know we’re doing business the right way.
I really care about people, and when people work for us, I want that experience to be the best it can be for them. I want them to feel like they're in a place that truly supports them in both life and work. I want them to feel they can be their true, authentic selves every day.
As I step into my next personal chapter and retire from the company effective April 1, I’ll be cheering from the sidelines. I’m beyond grateful and humbled for this opportunity to lead at such an incredible time of transformation for this company. If I could leave my leaders with one last piece of advice, I would urge them to lead with intentionality, ensuring our amazing company culture continues to thrive. I know the company is in great hands, and I’m excited to see what my successor, Sarah Langley, will achieve as she brings the best of her Suntory experience to our people and our business around the world.”
Beam Suntory announces funding and coordination of innovative restoration project in partnership with Northern Peat & Moss as part of its Peatland Water Sanctuary™ programme
SCOTLAND, UK (26 March 2024) – Beam Suntory, a world leader in premium spirits, today announces a long-term project to restore peatland on Craigculter Moss, in Aberdeenshire, north-east Scotland, in partnership with Northern Peat & Moss. The project will use novel techniques to restore and replenish the peat bog, improving resilience to climate change, enhancing biodiversity and re-establishing nature-supporting habitats.
Initial restoration groundworks are already underway at the 60-hectare site in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Beam Suntory will fully fund the approximately £100,000 restoration project.
The restoration is part of the Peatland Water Sanctuary™ programme, a joint investment of over $4 million by Beam Suntory and its parent company, Suntory Holdings, into the conservation and restoration of peatlands. While the Scotch Whisky industry is only responsible for a very modest percentage of Scotland’s peat use, Beam Suntory is committed to working in partnership with different site owners and conservationists to implement novel restoration techniques that will replenish any level of degraded peatland.
Craigculter is a heavily degraded peat moss, having historically been used to harvest peat for different industries, such as for fuel. Beam Suntory will demonstrate novel techniques on the moss to restore peat below the ‘standard’ threshold level, and in some areas, to reintroduce a functioning wetland on bare substrate.
Restoration will provide considerable benefits for carbon sequestration and increase water retention and distribution across the site to both reduce the rate of erosion and re-establish vegetation to the point where peat will once again accumulate naturally. This in turn will reduce the risk of local and regional flooding and restore the biodiversity and wildlife of this natural habitat.
As part of the project’s commitment to improve education and awareness about the importance of peat and biodiversity, Beam Suntory will facilitate knowledge-sharing with the wider Scotch Whisky industry and other research and conservationist groups to encourage further restoration and innovation.
Alistair Longwell, Head of Distillation & Environment, Beam Suntory, comments: “We are very proud of the progress we’ve made since launching the Peatland Water Sanctuary™ programme three years ago, with 206 hectares restored and 435 hectares in planning stages. This project at Craigculter marks an important step in our industry-wide commitment to restoring Scotland’s peatlands, proving that by implementing novel methods, we can push the boundaries of restoration and show that even historically degraded land can be replenished to a thriving natural habitat.”
Robbie Millar, President of Global Whisky and Prestige, Beam Suntory, adds: “Our global sustainability strategy, Proof Positive, lays out our commitment to making a positive impact on the environments and communities in which we operate. By collaborating with other organisations, landowners and expert conservationists, we can implement real change for these crucial watersheds, and we look forward to sharing our results and learnings with others as we progress the Peatland Water Sanctuary™ programme.”
Harumichi Seta, General Manager, Sustainability Management Division, Suntory Holdings, comments: “As a company sustained by the gifts of nature and water, we are dedicated to replenishing and protecting the natural wetlands across Scotland that play an indispensable role in water purification and biodiversity. We are steadfast in our long-term restoration targets and hope to bring many more partners on the journey with us, to maximise our collective positive impact on nature and society.”
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Media contact:
Natasha.Wilson@BeamSuntory.com
About Peatland Water Sanctuary™
The Peatland Water Sanctuary™ is a large-scale series of peatland restoration and watershed conservation projects in Scotland launched in 2021 by Beam Suntory and its parent company, Suntory Holdings. Through PWS™, the companies have committed to invest more than $4 million to the restoration and conservation of 1,300 hectares of peatlands by 2030, enough to produce the same amount of peat that Beam Suntory uses to make its peated whiskies on an ongoing basis. Beyond this, there is a longer-term aim to restore sufficient peatlands by 2040 to equate twice what Beam Suntory uses.
The PWS™ programme began with work to restore and conserve peatland near the Ardmore distillery in November 2021 in partnership with the James Hutton Institute and Forestry & Land Scotland. Beam Suntory has also partnered with the RSPB Scotland to regenerate peatland at the Airds Moss reserve in East Ayrshire, Scotland. Across its projects, Beam Suntory has already restored 206 hectares of peatland, with a further 435 hectares in active planning stages.
The PWS™ programme aligns with the Suntory Group Sustainability Vision and Beam Suntory’s ambitious Proof Positive sustainability strategy, as well as the Scotch Whisky Association’s environmental commitments.
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 Northern Peat & Moss Ltd.
Northern Peat & Moss Ltd. is a commercial peat supplier based in Aberdeenshire in the northeast of Scotland. Experts in bog management and peat extraction, it is a fourth-generation family business, founded in 1905.
GLASGOW & LONDON, UK (22 March 2024) - Two of the world’s leading premium spirits companies, Edrington and Beam Suntory, are to end their distribution agreement in the UK with effect from 31st January 2025. Edrington UK will continue to distribute Beam Suntory brands until that date.
From February 2025, Edrington UK will focus exclusively on Edrington’s portfolio of ultra-premium and leading spirits. Beam Suntory will establish its own commercial business for the UK market, led by Nick Temperley, MD UK & Ireland.
Beam Suntory and Edrington have had a long and successful partnership in the UK, dating back more than 25 years and evolving over time from the jointly-owned Edrington-Beam Suntory UK business (formerly Maxxium UK) into a third-party distribution partnership in 2021. During that time both portfolios have seen sustained growth.
Aristotelis Baroutsis, Edrington’s Regional Managing Director for EMEIA*, said: “Edrington’s strategy of focusing on ultra-premium spirits in world cities has strengthened our brands and our performance. The UK is our home market, and this is the right moment for us to deepen our focus on the potential for ultra-premium spirits and in particular, for our leading brand, The Macallan.”
Nick Temperley, Beam Suntory’s Managing Director for UK & Ireland, said: “Firstly, my sincere thanks to the entire team at Edrington UK, with whom we have partnered so closely for so many years, for their outstanding work on our portfolio in the UK.
“It will be an absolute privilege to build the new Beam Suntory UK business. We have strong premium brands and we intend to create a diverse, world-class team anchored in London with capabilities in Scotland and across the country.
“We see significant potential in the UK. It is a very large and sophisticated spirits market and home to many of the world’s best retailers, bars and restaurants. We look forward to partnering with them from February next year."
Edrington UK MD Mark Riley said: “I am excited at the opportunity to shape our UK business focused exclusively on opportunities for Edrington’s ultra-premium and leading spirits. The Edrington UK team has delivered strong results for Beam Suntory’s portfolio and we are proud to represent these excellent brands in the UK until next February.”
ENDS
*EMEIA – Europe, Middle East, India, Africa
For further information, please contact:
Susy Atkinson, Senior Corporate Communications Manager, Edrington
susy.atkinson@edrington.com
+44 (0) 777 554 7732
Nell Murphy, International Communications Director, Beam Suntory
Nell.murphy@beamsuntory.com
Notes to editors:
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 Edrington
Edrington’s vision is to give more by crafting exceptional ultra-premium spirit brands.
The Macallan is our central focus, supported by Highland Park and The Glenrothes in the fast-growing single malt category and Naked Malt in the blended malt category. Our portfolio is completed with Brugal premium rum from the Dominican Republic, The Famous Grouse Blended Scotch Whisky, and Wyoming Whiskey and Noble Oak in the American Whiskey category. Edrington also has a strategic partnership with No.3 London Dry Gin.
Edrington is headquartered in Scotland and employs over 3,000 people in its wholly owned and joint venture companies, with over half employed outside the UK. We own our route to market in 16 countries and distribute our brands to more than 100 countries around the world through joint ventures and third-party agreements.
Edrington’s principal shareholder is The Robertson Trust, which has donated £343 million to charitable causes in Scotland since 1961. Our business is underpinned by the Edrington values of giving, respect, integrity and excellence.
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, 2023) — 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.
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