UK-based spirits start-up Ellers Farm Distillery has sold a stake to Ricky Gervais.
The transaction, which sees Gervais become “co-owner” of the two-year-old company, is described as a “major investment by and partnership with” the actor & comedian. Specific details regarding the size of the holding and the sum paid were not disclosed.
Subsequently, Gervais, best known for having co-written The Office and for his stand-up comedy shows, will assume the lead on the “global brand awareness and marketing efforts” for Ellers Farm’s flagship Dutch Barn Orchard Vodka brand. Also included in the remit will be the business’s gin and liqueurs ranges as well as an English single malt whisky that is in the pipeline through a collaboration with Theakston Brewery.
“With so many hollow celebrity cash-for-face brand endorsement deals out there, we are really pleased to have forged an authentic partnership with Ricky involving both investment and creative leadership,” said founder & chair Chris Fraser. “Ricky … will help shape how Dutch Barn is seen around the world and help us make Dutch Barn a global success.”
Founded in 2021, Ellers Farm is based in the north of England and secured B Corp certification earlier this year.
Earlier this year, Holistic Spirits, co-founded by US actor Woody Harrelson, debuted with the launches of the Origen Speciality Vodka and Harmony Gin brands.
