Hi-Spirits UK has taken on the name of its owner, seven years after its takeover was completed.
Sazerac UK, as the London-based distribution company is now known, will be followed by Hi-Spirits Ireland’s change to become Sazerac Ireland. The moves, according to the two businesses’ parent, “reflects Sazerac’s commitment to expanding … around the world”.
Hi-Spirits UK, which commenced operations in 1999, was bought by the Buffalo Trace brand owner in 2016.
“The renaming of Sazerac’s various global offices marks an important step in our globalisation efforts by allowing us to connect Sazerac’s heritage and history … into a single identity,” said group CEO Jake Wenz. “We’re energised by the opportunities that lay ahead as we continue to expand and grow our portfolio around the world.”
Wenz assumed the helm, replacing longstanding CEO Mark Brown, in May, moving up from his previous role as chief commercial officer at the privately-owned group.
Just over a year ago, Sazerac, which bought the Paddy Irish whiskey from Pernod Ricard in 2016, added to its presence in Ireland through the acquisition of the Lough Gill Distillery in the northwest of the country as well as the Athrú single malt brand.
