Macleod changes distribution tack

IAN Macleod Distillers has taken the UK and Ireland distribution of its drinks brands in house after luring a member of staff from its former delivery partner.

Leonard Russell, managing director and majority shareholder in Ian Macleod, insisted the decision to break with loss-making Harvey Miller Wine and Spirit Agencies (HMWSA) was "mutual" and "amicable".

Alan Wardrop, sales manager for HMWSA, joins Ian Macleod as UK sales manager. The Broxburn-based firm has also recruited Neil Boyd, formerly a global brand director for Bacardi, who joins as UK commercial director. Last year, Ian Macleod, which makes Glengoyne single malt whisky, invested in a Norwegian firm, Cask Owners, to distribute its drinks brands in Scandinavia. The firm also recently announced the launch of three of its brands in northern regions of India through its subsidiary Ian Macleod India.

Russell said the move to distribute its own brands in the UK made sense as the firm now provides own-label alcohol for several supermarkets.

"After five happy years working together with HMWSA it was a mutual decision that Ian Macleod Distillers take distribution back in-house as we are now very successfully providing own-label to many multiples throughout UK."

He added: "HMWSA have taken the decision to concentrate more on their successful and growing wine business. This has been a very amicable decision all round."