Drinksology Kirker Greer invests in global growth

Rapidly growing premium spirits distributor and brand innovator, Drinksology Kirker Greer in Belfast, has announced the appointment of John Soden as chief commercial officer to support their global growth and distribution strategy. 

John has extensive experience in the beverage industry and will come on board to develop the global reach and brand awareness of the Kirker Greer portfolio which includes brands such as Jawbox Gin, Ginato Italian Gin and Bowsaw American Whiskey.

Having focused throughout his career on building premium and super-premium drinks brands in international markets, John brings a wealth of experience in the industry. He has already managed the growth of many brands in North America, Europe, Asia and Global Travel Retail. Some of his previous roles include director at Pernod Ricard, managing director at Castle Brands, vice president strategy and development at Edrington, and vice president sales and marketing at C&C International. 

Mr Soden, commenting on his appointment and what attracted him to the business, says: "I am super excited to be joining the team at Drinksology Kirker Greer at such an important inflection point in the business. There are enormous growth opportunities in key global markets for their premium spirit portfolio with some of the brands already seeing success in Australia, South Africa, Germany and France.

“I also really look forward to working with such an enthusiastic and dynamic team. Drinksology Kirker Greer is such a unique drinks business, the Drinksology Creative arm of the business really sets them apart from everyone else, having worked with some of the biggest brands and best bars in the world.”

Steven Pattison, chief executive of Drinksology Kirker Greer, also commented on John Soden’s appointment: “John’s global experience is of great value to us. He has successfully created routes to markets for some well-known brands and worked on the development of brands like Jameson and Tullamore Dew.  As we set our sights on continued growth and expansion, he will be an invaluable asset to us. We look forward to working with him on elevating our premium brands portfolio in key European markets, North America and Russia.” 

Drinksology Kirker Greer significantly grew its global presence and sales in 2020, adding a distribution warehouse in the Netherlands, New Jersey and Cape Town to its network, along with offices in Italy to serve its European spirits division, Kirker Greer Spirits EU. Its spirits division also ended 2020 with a year-on-year increase in sales of over 83 percent, thanks to strong performances across Europe with the online and multiple retail sector, entering into new markets such as South Africa, North America and Australia sees several new brands occupying major shelf space in multiple retail channels. 

John Soden, chief commercial officer of Drinksology Kirker Greer.