INDIA/UK. Ospree Duty Free CEO Avishek Bambii Das has been named as a Keeper of the Quaich, joining one of the drinks industry’s most prestigious societies.
The honour is bestowed upon those who have made an outstanding contribution to the Scotch whisky industry, with only a select few invited each year to join the ranks.
The latest Keepers of the Quaich banquet was held at Blair Atholl Castle in Perthshire, Scotland on 7 October. Rock star and whisky brand owner Sir Rod Stewart has also been awarded the distinction, as have many leading travel retail figures (including The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie).
Founded in 1988 by leading Scotch producers, including United Distillers, Allied Distillers, Justerini & Brooks Ltd, The Highland Distilleries Co. and Robertson & Baxter, there are currently 3,093 Keepers of the Quaich worldwide, spanning over 100 countries.
Avishek Bambii Das said: “Being honoured as a Keeper of the Quaich is a remarkable and rare privilege. To be recognised by the Scotch whisky community, which represents tradition and excellence, is deeply humbling. This honour reflects our passion for Scotch whisky, and we look forward to continuing our contribution to this remarkable industry.”
Under his leadership, the single malt Scotch business recorded a remarkable +60% year-on-year growth, fuelled by Ospree’s wide selection of over 250 malts. In FY2024, the overall whisky category went up +41%, representing 45% of the company’s total revenue.
As the CEO of the world’s fastest-growing duty-free business, this honour reinforces Avishek Bambii Das’s commitment to promoting the legacy of Scotch whisky and leading its dynamic growth, the retailer said. ✈
