Blavod buys Blackwood’s; appoints Hi-Spirits distributor

Blavod Wines & Spirits has appointed Hi-Spirits as UK distributors of its drinks portfolio in order to focus on brand development and marketing.

The Blackwood’s brand, along with Diva and Jago’s, was sold to Blavod this week for £50,000

Included in the portfolio is Blackwood Vodka and Gin, Diva and Jago’s, acquired by Blavod this week from administrators of the Shetland Spirit Company for £50,000.

Hi-Spirits began distribution of the Blavod drinks portfolio across the UK and Ireland, including on- and off-trade and travel retail, on 1 June.

Blavod meanwhile will shift its focus onto “doing what they do best” by developing ‘award-winning’ brands and marketing strategies.

“We are delighted to appoint Hi-Spirits for our brand portfolio,” said Don Goulding, executive chairman of Blavod. “They are a highly successful distribution team and their portfolio is an ideal fit for our brands.”

Jeremy Hill, chairman of Hi-Spirits, said the Blavod range is a “strategic fit” with the company’s own brand portfolio.

“We’re looking forward to working closely with the Blavod team to grow distribution of both their existing range and other exciting products in development.”

The Blavod portfolio includes the newly-acquired Scottish brands Blackwood Gin and Vodka, Jago’s vodka liqueur and Diva vodka.

“The acquisition of [Blackwood’s] together with Diva and Jago’s provides us with the platform and incentive to accelerate further growth of these brands in the UK and internationally,” added Goulding.

The Blavod portfolio also includes: Blavod, the Original Black Vodka, Redleg Spiced Rum, Hapsburg absinthe, Hipnotiq and Pama liqueurs from Heaven Hill, and a range of products from Fernet Branca.