Diageo Officially Launches the First ecoSPIRITS Intelligent Circular Closed Loop Network
JAKARTA 31 October 2022 In collaboration with Diageo, a global drinks leader, ecoSPIRITS has officially launched its first Intelligent Circular™ closed loop network in Indonesia, which is powered by the new CircularONE™ software platform and the newest-generation SmartPour™ 2.0S technology. The project is the first major deployment by the two companies since the partnership was first revealed in April of this year. As part of this pilot program, co-branded Smirnoff Vodka editions of the ecoSPIRITS’ award-winning ecoTOTE™ and SmartPour technologies have been launched in 38 venues in Bali and Jakarta, including the popular eco-beach club La Brisa Bali. The SmartPour 2.0S Smirnoff Edition is the first Internet-of-Things (IoT) device to be officially powered by ecoSPIRITS’ cloud-based CircularONE software platform, which is being developed to improve the security, scalability and efficiency of ecoSPIRITS’ global closed loop network. The Indonesia launch also coincides with the upcoming G20 Leader’s Summit in Bali, which will see the world’s attention focus on the island destination in November 2022.
By using the new SmartPour 2.0S technology for direct service, Smirnoff is eliminating 99% of packaging waste.
In April 2022 ecoSPIRITS released its roadmap for an Intelligent Circular future in closed loop spirits and wine, with Diageo confirmed as the global launch customer. Under this Intelligent Circular roadmap, ecoSPIRITS’ core hardware portfolio is being enhanced by the new CircularONE software platform, with a range of security, data and sensing features. Smirnoff Vodka is the first of Diageo’s brands to feature in the rollout, with Captain Morgan Rum set to join in the coming months. To support closed loop operations in Indonesia, Diageo and ecoSPIRITS have deployed a full complement of circular packaging innovation, including a dedicated ecoPLANT in Bali, the co-branded ecoTOTEs and SmartPours, and the launch version of the new CircularONE cloud-based platform. The new SmartPour 2.0S allows each venue to dispense the appropriate measure of spirits directly into glasses or cocktail shakers while showcasing the partner spirit brand in a fully co-branded design.
The SmartPour 2.0S & ecoTOTE 3.0S Smirnoff Editions. Each Smirnoff ecoTOTE eliminates up to 600 single use glass bottles.
The collaboration between ecoSPIRITS and Diageo will have a positive environmental impact, dramatically enhancing Smirnoff Vodka’s sustainability in Indonesia. Each Smirnoff ecoTOTE used by the venues eliminates 3.3kg of carbon emissions – which is equivalent to the carbon emitted when driving in a car for 11.9km – and 99% of the packaging waste associated with Smirnoff Vodka in traditional bottle format. During its lifetime, each Smirnoff ecoTOTE will eliminate up to 600 single use glass bottles. The collaboration will also give back to the local environment because for each ecoTOTE used by outlets, Diageo and ecoSPIRITS will plant a tree in endangered wild areas of Indonesia. The activity forms part of the ecoSPIRITS Forest Program, which it has developed in partnership with carbon dioxide (CO2) mitigation specialists, Green Steps Group.
A positive sustainability story for Bali, an island known worldwide for its natural beauty.
Alefiyah Sarma, CEO, Diageo Indonesia
“With more than 40 billion glass bottles manufactured every year in the alcohol beverage industry alone, a solution needed to be created in order to reduce the amount of waste and the carbon emission generated. Through this innovation, we can reduce 99% of our packaging waste and eliminate the emissions of 3.3kg of carbon. Smirnoff wants to become the most sustainable vodka brand. Smirnoff invites our business partners, the outlets, to participate in this initiative and switch from glass bottles to the ecoTOTE.”
Anand Subramanian, Chief Operating Officer, ecoSPIRITS
“We are hugely excited about this first step with Diageo, to welcome the first global customer for our CircularONE software platform and to jointly launch the intelligent SmartPour 2.0S. By merging hardware and software innovation, ecoSPIRITS closed loop network becomes not only more efficient, but also more secure, more scalable and more cost-effective. These improvements will benefit our entire customer base – the growing network of brands, importers, distributors, wholesalers, and hospitality venues that make up ecoSPIRITS’ Climate Partner Program.”
A total of 38 bars and restaurants across Bali and Jakarta are participating in the program and are the first in the world to receive the new Intelligent Circular technology. La Brisa Bar in Bali was selected for the September 30th press event for the launch of the pilot program, where the full list of participating venues and the new co-branded hardware were shared with local media. La Brisa, which is located on the island’s iconic Echo Beach, has a major focus on sustainable practices. The food it serves is sustainably sourced and the whole venue has been built using reclaimed wood from old hand-decorated fishing boats. Every Sunday is La Brisa Farmer’s Day, which is a weekly initiative powered by LYD Organic, designed to support local farmers and small businesses. As part of this initiative, the venue showcases an array of organic baked goods, natural body care items, upcycled fashion and low waste products.
Bali’s eco-friendly beach bar La Brisa hosted the launch event.
Indonesia has now become the first destination for the partnership between Diageo and ecoSPIRITS, with plans for a wider rollout in Diageo’s global market underway. More details about ecoSPIRITS’ Intelligent Circular roadmap, the CircularOne software platform and the collaboration with Diageo will be released in the coming months. Bars, restaurants, and hotels interested in signing up to the Indonesia rollout can contact dannies.hendrato@diageo.com and journalists seeking more information about this story can contact [email protected] from ecoSPIRITS or [email protected] from Diageo Indonesia.
About Diageo Indonesia
In Indonesia, Diageo started in 1973 when Guinness products entered the market. Since 2014, PT Langgeng Kreasi Jayaprima (Diageo Indonesia) started a new chapter through job creation and the local production of high-quality spirits including Smirnoff, Captain Morgan, Gilbey’s, Mr Dowell’s and Gordon’s in Bali. Globally, Diageo is a leader in premium beer and spirits with an outstanding collection of more than 200 brands including Guinness, Johnnie Walker, Singleton, Tanqueray, Baileys and Don Julio. Our products are sold in more than 180 countries as Diageo’s ambition is to become the best performing, most trusted and respected consumer products company.
Through Society 2030: Spirit of Progress, we are building on the legacy of our founders. We want to create a positive impact on our company, within our communities and for society. Our facility in Bali is already Zero-Waste to Landfill and using 100% Certified Renewable Electricity. Working hand in hand with our local stakeholders, we are developing the Nyambu Eco Tourism village in Bali. By 2030 in Indonesia, we will have targeted 400,000 participants for our SMASHED program in tackling underage drinking and in addition, educated 200,000 people in responsible drinking.
To learn more, follow our @diageoid instagram accounts and support us in Celebrating Life Every Day Everywhere.
About ecoSPIRITS
ecoSPIRITS is a circular economy technology company that has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for premium spirits and wine. Our patent-pending closed loop system nearly eliminates all packaging waste in the supply chain. By dramatically reducing packaging and transport, ecoSPIRITS provides both a powerful cost advantage and transformative carbon footprint reduction. Founded in Singapore in 2018, the ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 14 countries and 30 cities across Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Americas. More than 1,000 leading bars, restaurants, hotels, and retailers have adopted the technology, including Michelin-starred restaurants, World’s 50 Best and Asia’s 50 Best bars and iconic hotels. ecoSPIRITS is now rapidly building a global network of closed loop service, with coverage to grow to 25 countries by early 2023. Together with our brand partners, importers, distributors, wholesalers, venues and retailers, we are already making a difference. Each year, ecoSPIRITS and our partners are eliminating hundreds of tons of single use glass waste, planting tens of thousands of trees, and inspiring others to change.
ecoSPIRITS Makes Global Sales Team Appointments Amid Growing Demand for Circular Solutions
LONDON 25 October 2022 In response to continuing growth in demand for its circular packaging technology, ecoSPIRITS has bolstered its global sales team with a series of senior appointments over the last two months, including Iain McPherson as Sales Director, Europe; Jessica Berry as Sales Director, North America; and James Wynn-Williams as Sales Manager, Asia Pacific. Additionally, drinkx +, a Miami-based sales consultancy firm led by industry veteran Chris Hopkins, has been appointed to the role of national sales agent in the United States. Together, the newcomers bolster ecoSPIRITS’ capabilities with more than seven decades of sales and market experience across some of the industry’s largest brands, distributors and wholesalers. The expanded global sales team will work closely with ecoSPIRITS’ worldwide network of Licensed Operators and Climate Partners to accelerate the transition to circular packaging in spirits and wine.
ecoSPIRITS' global network of closed loop service will grow to cover 25 countries by early 2023
In the newly-created role of Sales Director for Europe, Iain McPherson will help navigate ecoSPIRITS’ rapid expansion across the region. McPherson moves across from the United Kingdom’s largest wholesaler, Matthew Clark, where he most recently held the role of Managing Director for Scotland. In this role he was responsible for leading a £100 million business, overseeing a team of 130 and serving more than 2,500 on-premise customers. He has also held roles in wine and beer sales and business development with WaverlyTBS and Scottish & Newcastle. Based in ecoSPIRITS’ growing London office, McPherson is also responsible for ecoSPIRITS’ strategic customer relationships in the region, such as its collaborations with industry leaders such as Pernod Ricard and Diageo. McPherson will also manage a pipeline of new Licensed Operators and markets, including the recently announced ecoSPIRITS Central Europe, ecoSPIRITS Ireland, and ecoSPIRITS Switzerland. He also recently led ecoSPIRITS’ presence at Bar Convent Berlin and Whisky Live Paris.
LONDON 25 October 2022 In response to continuing growth in demand for its circular packaging technology, ecoSPIRITS has bolstered its global sales team with a series of senior appointments over the last two months, including Iain McPherson as Sales Director, Europe; Jessica Berry as Sales Director, North America; and James Wynn-Williams as Sales Manager, Asia Pacific. Additionally, drinks+, a Miami-based sales consultancy firm led by industry veteran Chris Hopkins, has been appointed to the role of national sales agent in the United States. Together, the newcomers bolster ecoSPIRITS’ capabilities with more than seven decades of sales and market experience across some of the industry’s largest brands, distributors and wholesalers. The expanded global sales team will work closely with ecoSPIRITS’ worldwide network of Licensed Operators and Climate Partners to accelerate the transition to circular packaging in spirits and wine.
ecoSPIRITS' global network of closed loop service will grow to cover 25 countries by early 2023
In the newly-created role of Sales Director for Europe, Iain McPherson will help navigate ecoSPIRITS’ rapid expansion across the region. McPherson moves across from the United Kingdom’s largest wholesaler, Matthew Clark, where he most recently held the role of Managing Director for Scotland. In this role he was responsible for leading a £100 million business, overseeing a team of 130 and serving more than 2,500 on-premise customers. He has also held roles in wine and beer sales and business development with WaverlyTBS and Scottish & Newcastle. Based in ecoSPIRITS’ growing London office, McPherson is also responsible for ecoSPIRITS’ strategic customer relationships in the region, such as its collaborations with industry leaders such as Pernod Ricard and Diageo. McPherson will also manage a pipeline of new Licensed Operators and markets, including the recently announced ecoSPIRITS Central Europe, ecoSPIRITS Ireland, and ecoSPIRITS Switzerland. He also recently led ecoSPIRITS’ presence at Bar Convent Berlin and Whisky Live Paris.
“I count it a privilege and fantastic opportunity to join ecoSPIRITS. The response from brands, distributors, and venues from all over the world has been incredibly humbling. ecoSPIRITS technology offers all our partners the ability to make huge progress in removing waste and reducing CO2 in their supply chain and enabling consumers to make choices that really make a difference to the impact we are having on this planet.”
Meanwhile, ecoSPIRITS has appointed Jessica Berry in the newly-created role of Sales Director for North America, where she will oversee sales and expansion in the all-important United States market, as well as regional partnerships in Canada and the Caribbean. Berry has worked with some of the largest brands in the world, having previously held roles at Diageo and Patron Spirits Company, and she has extensive experience in brand building, distributor partnerships and people management. Prior to joining ecoSPIRITS, she held the position of Vice President of Sales for Rosaluna Mezcal where she was responsible for executing a US launch plan in the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, developing a successful growth strategy, and building a national distributor footprint in more than 10 key states. She has worked closely with many distributor partners across the United States and has the know-how and relationships with key stakeholders to successfully launch ecoSPIRITS in North America.
“Joining the ecoSPIRITS team and having the opportunity to launch a new technology that will greatly reduce the waste in our industry is a dream come true! It’s an issue that has frustrated the drinks industry for some time and I know that many in North America are ready to welcome a solution that will help them move away from single use glass. I can’t wait to use my experience to help make a positive impact on our world, and I hope many will join me!”
As ecoSPIRITS prepares to enter the US market under its joint venture with alcoholic beverage importer and distributor, Park Street, it has appointed drinkx +, a sales consultancy led by Chris Hopkins, as a national sales agent for the ecoSPIRITS technology. Under Hopkins’ leadership, drinkx + will focus on ecoSPIRITS’ technology partnerships with leading regional and national hospitality operators and outlet chains. Hopkins, who is also the founder of Hashtag Mixology, was previously Corporate Mixologist for Wynn Resorts, where he oversaw the beverage training and development for 27 different bars and restaurants with a team of more than 200 bartenders. He founded Cocktail Roadshow, a global hospitality consultancy specializing in beverage development, training, and event management for hospitality companies, and he has also worked closely with Bacardi USA, where he grew the brand and mentored a team of ambassadors.
“It’s exciting to be able to play a part in bringing ecoSPIRITS to the US and I am looking forward to introducing this innovative technology to some of the region’s leading regional and national hospitality operators. Sustainability is such a big focal point for many in the industry and drinkx + is ready to work with ecoSPIRITS as it continues to transition people to the circular economy.”
Completing the line-up of new sales team appointments is James Wynn-Williams, who joins as ecoSPIRITS’ Sales Manager for Asia Pacific. Wynn-Williams previously worked as the Australian Sales Manager for Proof & Company, one of the region’s leading independent spirits distributors and the licensed operator for the ecoSPIRITS technology in Australia. In this role, he led a national sales team calling on more than 1,000 on-premise customers across five states and built the ecoSPIRITS closed loop network in Australia from launch to more than 300 active accounts. In his new role, he is responsible for ecoSPIRITS customers and partnerships across the Asia Pacific region, including the launch of closed loop service with Pernod Ricard in Singapore and Diageo in Indonesia, and the rollout of ecoSPIRITS’ SmartKiosk technology in Singapore with Proof & Company and DFI Retail Group, a pan-Asian retailer operating more than 10,200 outlets across the region.
“Having worked for Proof & Company for the past three years meant I was involved in the early days of ecoSPIRITS as it launched in Asia in 2018 and 2019, and I watched it go from strength-to-strength. It’s fantastic to now be working even more closely with this innovative closed loop technology. I am also particularly excited by the company’s first move into the retail environment, starting in the Asia Pacific region.”
Paul Gabie, CEO, ecoSPIRITS
“ecoSPIRITS continues to experience a remarkable level of interest in our technology, and in the circular economy transition in general. With a growing portfolio of global brand partnerships and more than four hundred prospective brand partners on our network waiting list, ecoSPIRITS is investing heavily in our capacity to serve our partners wherever we are present. Welcoming Iain, Jessica, drink+ and James to our global sales team reflects the depth of our commitment to serving those partners – our Licensed Operators and Climate Partners – to the very best of our ability.”
The ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 14 countries and 30 cities across Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Americas. The expansion of ecoSPIRITS’ global sales team will help accelerate the company’s rollout of the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for spirits and wine, with coverage now expected to expand to 25 countries by early 2023. To find out more information about opportunities to partner with ecoSPIRITS in Europe, please contact Iain McPherson at [email protected], in North America, please contact Jessica Berry at [email protected] and in Asia Pacific, please contact James Wynn-Williams at [email protected]. For media inquiries or general information on ecoSPIRITS, you may contact Sonya Hook, Senior PR Manager at [email protected].
About ecoSPIRITS
ecoSPIRITS is a circular economy technology company that has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for premium spirits and wine. Our patent-pending closed loop system nearly eliminates all packaging waste in the supply chain. By dramatically reducing packaging and transport, ecoSPIRITS provides both a powerful cost advantage and a transformative carbon footprint reduction. Founded in Singapore in 2018, the ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 14 countries and 30 cities across Asia Pacific, Europe and the Americas. More than 1,000 leading bars, restaurants, hotels and retailers have adopted the technology, including Michelin-starred restaurants, World’s 50 Best and Asia’s 50 Best bars and iconic hotels. ecoSPIRITS is now rapidly building a global network of closed loop service, with coverage to grow to 25 countries worldwide by early 2023. Together with our brand partners, importers, distributors, wholesalers, venues, and retailers, we are already making a difference. Each year, ecoSPIRITS and our partners are eliminating hundreds of tons of single use glass waste, planting tens of thousands of trees, and inspiring others to change.
Pernod Ricard Launches Closed Loop Service in Singapore and Makes Plans for Global Rollout With ecoSPIRITS
SINGAPORE 17 October 2022 Pernod Ricard and ecoSPIRITS have launched a portfolio of co-branded circular hardware to service leading bars, restaurants and hotels across Singapore. This pilot project marks an important milestone in a larger-scale collaboration between the two companies, paving the way to further rollouts beyond Singapore. The collaboration in Singapore will eventually cover at least 30 venues, including Republic Bar Singapore, MO Bar and Smoke & Mirrors, and it features three of Pernod Ricard’s iconic spirit brands: Absolut Vodka, Beefeater London Dry Gin, and Havana Club Rum.
The world’s first portfolio of co-branded ecoTOTEs.
Details of the launch were revealed at a press event in Singapore on October 4, along with the release of a ‘Circular Making’ video that explains the process and innovation behind closed loop spirits. Pernod Ricard and ecoSPIRITS joined forces to advocate for the circular economy in the industry by creating a circular journey from their countries of origin to the end consumer in ecoSPIRITS’ award-winning closed loop system.
Circular Making: A video collaboration by Pernod Ricard and ecoSPIRITS.
For the Singapore-based pilot program, ecoSPIRITS has released a portfolio of co-branded ecoTOTE™s and SmartPour™s featuring the three iconic Pernod Ricard spirit brands to service bars, restaurants, and hotels across the city state. Venues can securely refill branded spirit bottles using the latest generation SmartPour 2.0S technology. These co-branded SmartPours are equipped with ecoSPIRITS’ patent-pending Verified Sustainable Refill™ feature, which uses NFC-based refill bottle authentication via a cloud-based software platform. The collaboration will eliminate an estimated 95% of all packaging waste and a minimum of 60% carbon emissions of the packaging and distribution for the participating Pernod Ricard brands in Singapore, when compared with the traditional format of single use glass.
Absolut Vodka uses powerful imagery to highlight the partnership.
The partnership between Pernod Ricard and ecoSPIRITS, which was first announced in March 2022, marks the first of its kind for a global brand portfolio and it is a natural fit for both parties. Pernod Ricard is an industry leader in sustainability, having made broad commitments under a Sustainability & Responsibility roadmap that supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The roadmap includes a pillar of ‘Circular Making’, which envisions reducing carbon footprint and encouraging circularity by developing more sustainable packaging solutions. The company aims to reduce its overall carbon footprint intensity by 50% by 2030, and to pursue a Net Zero trajectory by 2050.
Cutting-edge circular innovation. The SmartPour 2.0S in Absolut, Havana Club and Beefeater branded editions.
To support the Singapore collaboration, leading Singapore distributor Drinks Fellas will join the ecoSPIRITS Climate Partner Program and be the exclusive distributor of Absolut Vodka, Beefeater Gin and Havana Club Rum in ecoTOTE format for the launch period. The company, which is headed up by Jack Ong, joins a growing global coalition of importers, distributors, and wholesalers who are licensed for closed loop distribution using ecoSPIRITS’ technology. Drinks Fellas is the third ecoSPIRITS Climate Partner distributor in Singapore.
Jean Touboul, Managing Director, Pernod Ricard Southeast Asia
“We’re thrilled to start this journey with ecoSPIRITS to create more sustainable and responsible moments of conviviality. It marks a key milestone in our commitment to circular making and distribution, which is at the heart of our 2030 Sustainability & Responsibility roadmap, Good Times from a Good Place. With the highest density of Asia’s Best Bars, and an increasing number of eco-conscious drinkers, Singapore is the perfect location to launch our pilot program. We’re very excited to have the support of Smoke & Mirrors, MO Bar and Republic Bar, three award winning bars in Singapore, and glad that we all share the same vision. Looking ahead, we hope more venues will join us on this circular distribution journey across Asia and the world.”
Paul Gabie, CEO, ecoSPIRITS
“Singapore is home to a celebrated bar scene with a growing crop of sustainable bar concepts and eco-conscious consumers. It’s also where the ecoSPIRITS journey started back in 2018. So, for us, there’s no better place than Singapore to launch our pilot program with Pernod Ricard. Through this first-of-a-kind partnership with a global brand portfolio, we hope to inspire more industry leaders and players to make the pivot to circular. We believe that this is an effective lever on our road to a circular economy and a significant step towards a low carbon revolution.”
Jack Ong, Owner, Drinks Fellas
“Drinks Fellas is excited to be involved in this project with ecoSPIRITS and Pernod Ricard. We have a reputation for responding with agility to an ever-changing market and we have spent many years being at the forefront of shaping and developing Singapore’s spirits sector. We pride ourselves in finding new trends in spirits and we are now at a point where we can fully commit to building sustainability into our plans for the future.”
The Singapore pilot program, which will include a target of 30 bar, hotel and restaurant partners, is forecast to eliminate more than 4,400kg of glass waste and save more than 3,400kg of carbon emissions in the initial six months. In addition, three of Asia’s best bars – MO Bar, Republic Bar Singapore and Smoke & Mirrors – are among the first to join the program and will be serving inventive, sustainably crafted cocktails in celebration of the launch in Singapore.
Journey Cocktail
is made using Beefeater London Dry Gin, Dehydrated Citrus Tea and spices. Journey is inspired by the travels made during the early tea traders in Asia. For this drink, leftover citrus is dehydrated, and turned into a tea by combining it with discarded tea from the bar’s Hi Tea operations to add more flavour. It is then married with Beefeater London Dry Gin and carbonated.
Sunday Spritz Cocktail
is made with Absolut Vodka, Citrus Stock, Lillet Blanc, Chartreuse Jaune, London Essence Peach & Jasmine Soda. Citrus fruits often lead to a lot of waste because they are only used for their peels and juice. As an organic product with high acidity, it is also very difficult and not ideal to compost. To minimize waste and fully utilise them, Republic Bar makes a stock of all-purpose substitute acid, which works wonderfully when mixed in the bar’s Sunday Spritz with Absolut Vodka.
Lacquer-Tini Cocktail
is made from Havana Club 3YO Rum, Jasmine Verte, Acid and Sugar. The drink draws inspiration from the lacquer-style painting of Nguyen Gia Tri’s The Landscape of Vietnam. With botanical and floral notes in a rum-based version of a Daiquiri and Gimlet blend, its clear appearance is not one to be deceived.
This launch in Singapore is an important milestone in a growing collaboration between Pernod Ricard and ecoSPIRITS. In parallel with the rollout in Singapore and one planned for Hong Kong in the coming months, the parties are working together to take the partnership to its next stage, working together on inspiring and encouraging more bars and restaurants to transition to circular packaging across Asia and the world.
Bars, restaurants, and hotels in Singapore interested in participating in the ongoing collaboration between Pernod Ricard and ecoSPIRITS can get in touch via email at [email protected] or [email protected]. To find out more information about ecoSPIRITS, please contact Sonya Hook, Senior PR Manager, ecoSPIRITS at [email protected].
About Pernod Ricard
Pernod Ricard is the No.2 worldwide producer of wines and spirits with consolidated sales amounting to €10,701 million in fiscal year FY22. The Group, which owns 17 of the Top 100 Spirits Brands, holds one of the most prestigious and comprehensive portfolios in the industry with over 240 premium brands distributed across more than 160 markets. Pernod Ricard’s portfolio includes Absolut Vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute, and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Malibu liqueur, Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes. The Group’s mission is to unlock the magic of human connections by bringing “Good Times from a Good Place”, in line with its Sustainability and Responsibility roadmap. Pernod Ricard’s decentralised organisation empowers its 19,480 employees to be on-the-ground ambassadors of its purposeful and inclusive culture of conviviality, bringing people together in meaningful, sustainable and responsible ways to create value over the long term. Executing its strategic plan, Transform & Accelerate, Pernod Ricard now relies on its “Conviviality Platform”, a new growth model based on data and artificial intelligence to meet the ever-changing demand of consumers. Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN Code: FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40 and Eurostoxx 50 indices.
About Drinks Fellas
Drinks Fellas has been plying the discerning liquor connoisseurs of Singapore with the choicest of spirits since the company’s inception in 2003. Not satisfied with the generic offerings so easily obtained in many of Singapore’s retailers and licensed establishments at that time, the team at Drinks Fellas set themselves the challenge of scouring the globe in search of unique spirits. We are justly proud of all the brands that we are privileged to represent and so now, among a list of over 500 products that adorn our shelves you can find the finest Peruvian pisco from BarSol, as well as Italy’s Fabbri 1905. We believe that products such as these represent the very best of what their region has to offer in terms of quality, value for money and of course taste!
About ecoSPIRITS
ecoSPIRITS is a circular economy technology company that has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for premium spirits and wine. Our patent-pending closed loop system nearly eliminates all packaging waste in the supply chain. By dramatically reducing packaging and transport, ecoSPIRITS provides both a powerful cost advantage and a transformative carbon footprint reduction. Founded in Singapore in 2018, the ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 14 countries and 30 cities across Asia Pacific, Europe and the Americas. More than 1,000 leading bars, restaurants, hotels and retailers have adopted the technology, including Michelin-starred restaurants, World’s 50 Best and Asia’s 50 Best bars and iconic hotels. ecoSPIRITS is now rapidly building a global network of closed loop service, with coverage to grow to 18 countries worldwide by late 2022. Together with our brand partners, importers, distributors, wholesalers, venues, and retailers, we are already making a difference. Each year, ecoSPIRITS and our partners are eliminating hundreds of tons of single use glass waste, planting tens of thousands of trees, and inspiring others to change.
ecoSPIRITS Expands European Footprint With Three New Licensed Operators
BERLIN 10 October 2022 ecoSPIRITS has announced the addition of three new European partners under its Licensed Operator program, which will expand the reach of the global closed loop network to cover Ireland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Czech Republic and Slovakia. The new Licensed Operator for Ireland is Lough Ree Distillery, while ecoSYSTEMS AG has signed the agreement on behalf of Switzerland and Liechtenstein. The final newcomer is ecoSPIRITS Central Europe, which will be operated by TrunkBros s.r.o., and bring closed loop service to the Czech Republic and Slovakia. All three new European partners will join the ecoSPIRITS global team this week at Bar Convent Berlin to meet with brands, distributors, and hospitality operators curious about circular spirits.
ecoSPIRITS’ exhibition at Bar Convent Berlin on 10 -12 October.
ecoSPIRITS‘ Licensed Operator Program first launched in late 2021 with several markets in Asia Pacific and the United Kingdom. Under the program, experienced local industry partners invest in the ecoSPIRITS portfolio of circular technologies, including the ecoPLANT™, ecoTOTE™ and SmartPour™ systems to bring closed loop service to new markets. In return, they receive the long-term rights to operate the ecoSPIRITS closed loop technology in their territory. Licensed Operators commit to offering closed loop service to other industry participants, including premium spirits brands, distributors and wholesalers who are looking to improve their cost and environmental performance. Licensed Operators are supported by a global ecoSPIRITS team, which provides comprehensive engineering, commercial, marketing and sustainability expertise.
ecoSPIRITS' European network now covers eight countries, including several of the largest economies.
TrunkBros s.r.o is the new Licensed Operator for Central Europe, initially covering the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The company is run by the Kastanek brothers, Zdenek and Pavel, who are both native to the region and are well versed in the culture, language and business practices. The pair have complementary skills with Zdenek Kastanek bringing years of food and beverage, as well as distribution experience, balanced with Pavel Kastanek’s skills in marketing and brand building. As its founding member, Zdenek Kastanek spent many years with Proof & Company, one of Asia Pacific’s leading spirits distributors and bar consultancies, before joining ecoSPIRITS in 2019 as International Sales Director. The duo plan to kickstart this venture by introducing two ecoSPIRITS Climate Partner brands from the True Believers portfolio: Widges Gin and Los Arcos Destilado de Agave.
Zdenek and Pavel Kastanek, co-owners of TrunkBros s.r.o.
“In this era of enhanced climate change awareness, we are very excited to help develop the circular economy within the Central Europe region by bringing circular technology for the distribution of wine and spirits, collaborating with local venues and partners, and helping them tackle their levels of waste and carbon emissions. It’s a region we know very well, and we are looking forward to working closely with local and international producers, hotels, bars and restaurant operators. In addition, with Zdenek’s in-depth knowledge of ecoSPIRITS as the company’s International Sales Director, we believe it has a strong future ahead and we are therefore very prepared to invest in it.”
The team behind Lough Ree Distillery will be the new Licensed Operator for ecoSPIRITS Ireland. Lough Ree Distillery, which is based in Lanesborough, Co. Longford in Ireland, is headed up by Michael and Peter Clancy and their sister Sheila Mullen. The two Clancy brothers are bringing their flagship brands – Sling Shot Distilled Irish Gin and Bart’s Irish Whiskey – to the ecoSPIRITS’ stand in Hall 17 at Bar Convent Berlin. Lough Ree is the first distillery to distil peat as a botanical in gin for its Sling Shot brand, while Bart’s Blended Irish Whiskey, which is a complex blend of five different whiskies, is named after their father, Bart Clancy, as a legacy to his memory. Lough Ree also produces the Bridge Series of Whiskey, Zesty Citrus Vodka and Aiteal Distilled Irish Gin.
Peter Clancy (pictured centre), CEO of Lough Ree Distillery.
“At Lough Ree Distillery we have been assessing our packaging and processes to see where we can reduce our impact on the planet. Like many others, we are trying to reduce our carbon footprint while facing huge challenges due to rising waste disposal and supply chain issues for packaging. ecoSPIRITS is a sustainable, circular distribution model that meets all these challenges and can bring additional benefits in terms of product traceability and integrity. The ecoSPIRITS closed loop technology is a game changer for the spirits and hospitality industries and we’re delighted to be the ones to bring this innovative and disruptive solution to the Irish market.”
The Licensed Operator for Switzerland and Liechtenstein is ecoSYSTEMS AG, a new company set up by three hospitality experts: Armin Azadpour, Justin R. Rayani and Erik Amstad. All three have many years of experience in the drinks industry: Azadpour runs the popular venues: Hunky Dory in Frankfurt and Bar Lupo in Zurich, while Rayani is the owner of the Zurich-based bars Dante, Grande and Le Raymond. Amstad’s background is in the on-trade drinks industry, having worked in global roles for leading consumer brands, such as Coca-Cola and Red Bull.
Armin Azadpour (pictured right), co-owner of ecoSYSTEMS AG.
“Collectively the three of us have many years of experience in the drinks trade across various parts of Europe, and we are very excited to be able to join forces and to work together with ecoSPIRITS as the Licensed Operator for Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Many of the venues and drinks businesses in this region already have a big focus on environmental concerns and we are looking forward to working with them on their long-term sustainability strategies by helping them make the move towards ending single use glass. The ecoSPIRITS system will also deliver a reduction in the carbon emissions footprint of the spirits’ packaging and distribution.”
ecoSPIRITS will be represented in Hall 17 (stand 17C45) at Bar Convent Berlin (10 – 12 October) by members of its global team, including Iain McPherson, ecoSPIRITS Sales Director, Europe. For the first time, the team will exhibit the full portfolio of ecoSPIRITS closed-loop technologies, including a complete ecoPLANT, which is ecoSPIRITS’ containerised, semi-automated processing facility. Also at the show will be the company’s latest generation of dispense technologies including the patent-pending SmartPour™ and SmartKiosk™. The new SmartKiosk is ecoSPIRITS’ intelligent retail system, which allows consumers to securely and safely refill branded spirits bottle in retail environments. In addition, Climate Partner brands from the existing ecoSPIRITS markets will be exhibited.
Visitors to BCB can see the full collection of ecoSPIRITS’ hardware.
Iain McPherson, ecoSPIRITS Sales Director, Europe.
“I am delighted that ecoSPIRITS closed loop technology will be introduced into these markets by knowledgeable and excellent partners. We look forward to working with our Licensed Operators in providing a platform for the industry to adopt the circular economy in these new markets. The transition from single use packaging to circular spirits and wine is a complex endeavour. Our Licensed Operator Program taps into the best of ecoSPIRITS’ global expertise and our operator’s local knowledge to help our partner brands distributors, and outlets make this important transition in a commercial sustainable way.”
Parties interested in finding out more about these three new Licensed Operators or ecoSPIRITS’ presence at Bar Convent Berlin may contact Iain McPherson, Sales Director for Europe [email protected] or Sonya Hook, Senior PR Manager, [email protected].
About TrunkBros s.r.o
TrunkBros s.r.o was established in 2018 by brothers Zdenek and Pavel Kastanek with the aim of helping the hospitality industry to have access to artisan, interesting and timeless products with a focus on circular systems and products. Gastronomy and entrepreneurship run in the family, alongside a focus on the environment. The pair have worked in many areas of the industry over the years, in roles ranging from bartenders, ambassadors, cooks, waiters, bosses, drivers and more. In more recent years their work in the sector has spanned out to drinks marketing and distribution in Europe and Asia Pacific. Responsibility and joy of life is what drives the brothers forward and they are always looking at ways to share their passion with others.
For more information, please visit https://trunkbros.com/
About Lough Ree
Founded and run by sibling trio Peter & Michael Clancy and their sister Sheila Mullen, Lough Ree Distillery is the ultimate family business. Commencing operations in 2018 by opening a micro distillery in their hometown of Lanesborough, Co. Longford, the company has an impressive product portfolio of multi award winning products. Lough Ree’s brand emphasises the power of connection – connecting whiskey tradition with modern technology, connecting the gentle pace of rural Ireland with the confidence of a new generation and finally connecting people from far and wide through fine spirits. With innovation at the heart of the business, the team became the first to distil peat as a botanical with their Sling Shot Gin, while Bart’s Blended Irish Whiskey is a complex blend of grain, pot still and peated malt with malt whiskeys finished in Rye and Oloroso casks. The company also has The Bridge series of Single Cask Whiskies.
For more information, please visit https://www.lrd.ie/
About ecoSYSTEMS AG
ecoSYSTEMS AG is a new company set up by a trio of hospitality and drinks experts: Justin Rayani, Armin Azadpour and Erik Amstad. The three decided to put their many years of industry experience together to set up ecoSYSTEMS, with the aim of focusing on sustainable strategies for the bar and drinks sectors around their homelands of Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Between the three of them they have worked in, managed and owned several bars and they have a focus on excellence and quality. With an in-depth knowledge of the bar scene around the region, the team intends to work closely with venues, producers and hospitality businesses to help them transition to environmentally-friendly practices.
For more information, please visit www.ecosystemag.com
About BCB
Bar Convent Berlin, which takes place in the Messe Berlin exhibition centre, is the largest trade fair for the bar and beverage industry. Bar owners, bartenders, distributors and manufacturers from around 80 countries come to BCB in Berlin every year to make new contacts, learn about product innovations and attend seminars. The event is unique in that it includes large and small brands exhibiting their wares side by side, a wealth of visitors from around the world and entertaining and informative presentations and seminars from top industry experts. BCB has expanded its global network with further shows in the US (Bar Convent Brooklyn) and Brazil (Bar Convent Sao Paulo). The first of the annual Berlin events took place in June 2018.
For more information, please visit https://www.barconvent.com/en-gb.html
About ecoSPIRITS
ecoSPIRITS is a circular economy technology company that has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for premium spirits and wine. Our patent-pending closed loop system nearly eliminates all packaging waste in the supply chain. By dramatically reducing packaging and transport, ecoSPIRITS provides both a powerful cost advantage and a transformative carbon footprint reduction. Founded in Singapore in 2018, the ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 14 countries and 30 cities across Asia Pacific, Europe and the Americas. More than 1,000 leading bars, restaurants and hotels have adopted the technology, including Michelin-starred restaurants, World’s 50 Best and Asia’s 50 Best bars and iconic hotels. ecoSPIRITS is now rapidly building a global network of closed loop service, with coverage to grow to 18 countries worldwide by late 2022.
Together with our brand partners, importers, distributors, wholesalers and venues, we are already making a difference. Each year, ecoSPIRITS and our partners are eliminating hundreds of tons of single use glass waste, planting tens of thousands of trees, and inspiring others to change.
For more information, please visit www.ecospirits.global