E&J Gallo Winery is to partner with South Korea’s Lotte Chilsung Beverage Co in a US distribution arrangement for three of the latter’s soju brands.
The wine giant’s Spirit of Gallo division will assume distribution responsibilities in the market for Lotte Chilsung’s Soonhari, Chum Churum and Saero ranges. The news marks Gallo’s debut in the Korean spirit category and takes effect from the start of next year.
According to Gallo, the trio are currently on sale in Asian specialist stores in the US with the agreement poised to “expand distribution across all other channels to capture the growing opportunity”.
“The soju category doubled in the US over the past five years, driven by accelerating consumer demand,” said Spirit of Gallo GM Britt West. “The newest generation of drinkers has been driving the growth and is turning over the soju category due to its variety, convenience and accessible price point.
“We are entering the category at a pivotal moment with the strongest partner, and we look forward to capitalising on this opportunity,”
Soonhari is a 12% ABV flavoured soju comprising seven variants, including a Yogurt flavour, while Chum Churum, which means ‘like the first time’ in Korean, comprises two expressions – Original at 16.5% ABV and Rich at 20%. Saero, meanwhile, contains zero sugar and is unflavoured.
Back in May, Spirit of Gallo acquired the Fishers Island Lemonade alcoholic RTD brand for an undisclosed sum.
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