Independent Swedish company No.1 Wine & Spirits has created a new UK-based subsidiary, with experienced drinks industry executive Robert Cooper as CEO.
Cooper – whose career includes senior roles at Diageo, SAB Miller and Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits – will spearhead the development of No.1 Wine & Spirits’ international business outside the Nordics, with global travel retail as a targeted channel.
No.1 Wine & Spirits was launched in 2007 in Vänersborg, Sweden. Its Founder Glenn Ström adopted a “down-to-earth” approach to producing a range of spirits, featuring water from the Vänern lake and locally-sourced grains.
A new production plant, using grown source energy, is scheduled to open by the end of the year.
According to the company, the plant underlines its strong sustainability credentials which include being carbon negative and offering recyclable ‘Bag in Box’ options for its spirits. No.1 Wine & Spirits has added an organic vodka to its line-up in its ambition to achieve B-Corp status.
“I am excited to lead the international development of the No.1 W&S spirits range at this stage of their journey,” Cooper said.
“Glenn has built a strong Swedish independent business underpinned by his passion for producing great quality spirits. There are some exciting developments to come in the next few years and I am looking forward to bring these to fruition.”
“I am so delighted that Robert, with his wealth of experience, has chosen to lead the No.1 Wine & Spirits international division as its CEO,” Ström added. “He understands our ambition to become the largest independent spirits company in Sweden.”
