New company KC Brands schnapps up FD Brands' spirits
A new company specialising in premium spirits has been set up by the directors of the Smiles Brewing company, based in Bristol.
Smiles chairman Quentin Williams and directors John Sellers, Mark Todd and Billy Whitbread have set up KC Brands after clinching exclusive distribution deals with Corby Distilleries, Canada's leading manufacturer and marketer of spirits, and Konings - a major European manufacturer based in Belgium.
Following the demise of FD Brands six weeks ago, KC Brands has also obtained the distribution rights and existing listings for FD Schnapps and is set to market the range as its flagship product.
"FD Schnapps sold 70,000 cases last year and has established itself as a leading player in the growing flavoured schnapps market," said Mark Todd, KC Brands' chief executive.
Mr Todd is also looking to expand the brand with the launch of a new four-flavour premium packaged spirit range called FD Schnappz.
He added: "The vodka-based PPS market has become saturated, while the schnapps category is relatively fresh. FD Schnappz offers an affordable alternative to Archers Aqua."
KC Brands is also looking to introduce a number of premium spirit brands into the UK market as part of the agreement with Corby. Tequila Rose, the fastest growing cream liqueur in the United States, is to be released in June and targeted at the female and gay markets.
July has been earmarked for the launch of a leading super premium vodka, Polar Ice Vodka, and three super premium whiskeys, Pike Creek, Lot No 40 and Gooderham & Wortz into the discerning style bar market.
Other brands in the newly-formed KC Brands portfolio include two perries, Belnor and Sanspumari, Special Red, a 7.5 per cent ABV cider and Ke Ke, a key lime liqueur from Florida.
Related stories:
Halewood gets Cockspur (April 18, 2001)
FD Brands in receivership (March 14, 2000)
