Strange Nature Gin has appointed UK company SipWell as its European travel retail distribution partner, marking the New Zealand brand’s entry into the European duty-free channel.
The agreement strengthens the brand’s growing international travel retail footprint across North America, Oceania, Asia and the Middle East. Strange Nature is currently available across 33 airport and cruise locations and is confident of rapid expansion through the SipWell partnership.
Strange Nature Co-owner and General Manager Rhys Julian said, “We chose Sipwell because they are specialists in travel retail, founded and led by experienced industry heads with deep experience across the world’s leading duty-free retailers.
“Though a relatively young business, their team has built long-standing relationships with key retailers and a reputation for growing premium spirits brands.
“Europe represents a significant strategic stepping stone for Strange Nature, given the scale and influence of the region’s travel retail channel.
“We appreciate the importance of this market and look forward to leveraging Sipwell’s expertise alongside our existing relationships with the likes of Heinemann, Lagardère Travel Retail and Avolta, who have been fantastic partners in supporting Strange Nature’s growth across Oceania.”
SipWell Brands Commercial Director Andrew Torrance added, “We’re delighted to welcome Strange Nature Gin to the SipWell Brands portfolio and to partner with a brand that brings such a distinctive perspective to the premium gin category.
“With its compelling story, outstanding liquid quality and strong visual identity, Strange Nature has all the ingredients to resonate with today’s global traveller.
“We see significant opportunities to build the brand’s presence across global travel retail, working closely with our retail partners in Europe to introduce more consumers to this exciting New Zealand gin.
“We look forward to supporting the team as they continue their international growth journey.”
As reported, Strange Nature recently extended its Middle East travedl retail presence through a listing with Muscat Duty Free, through the brand’s exclusive regional distribution partnership with Vintage International. ✈
Note: Retailers can discover Strange Nature on the SipWell Brand stand at TFWA World Exhibition in Cannes (27 September-1 October) at Green Village, Stand M44.
