Former Loch Lomond Group executive Andre de Almeida has set up a new drinks industry consultancy.
Inside the Cask Ltd plans to offer a range of services – including business strategy and positioning, commercial proposition analysis, channel specific support and advisory services – which tap into his wide experience in the sector.
As reported, de Almeida assumed the role of Secret Garden Distillery Managing Director last year. He joined the gin specialist after almost five years with Loch Lomond Group as Managing Director Global Travel Retail. De Almeida’s experience in the drinks sector includes executive posts with William Grant & Sons and the Edrington Group.
“As someone who has worked in the drinks industry since 2004 – both in the UK and abroad across international markets and global travel retail – I am now looking to share that experience gained across all sectors with other companies,” de Almeida said.
He confirmed that discussions with some brands, either to assist their entry into global travel retail or to help with export sales and commercial propositions, are already taking place.
“The drinks industry, in particular within the domestic on-trade and global travel retail, is in full recovery mode,” de Almeida said.
“However, there will be many challenges ahead, driven by the increase in the cost of living and the restrictions created as a result of the Ukraine/Russia war. Thankfully it’s a resilient sector and business opportunities will continue to appear.
“Retailers and operators need to be mindful of providing diversity of choice at the point of purchase, with plenty of distinct brand options being offered to consumers looking to re-engage in person with the trade.”
De Almeida noted problems related to meeting a pent-up demand for travel. “One challenge facing travel retailers currently is how to manage short-term staff shortages and security passes. Travel retailers need to avoid any bad experiences for travellers, especially if they want to convert them back into shoppers at our airports, airlines, cruiselines and elsewhere in global travel retail.”
On a positive note, de Almeida noted the growing number of jobs available within the industry, many of which are detailed on the Inside the Cask blog.
Andre de Almeida can be contacted by email: andre@insidethecask.com.
