Distell appoints new global head of travel retail

Africa’s largest alcoholic drinks producer, Distell, has appointed Luke Maga as its new head of global travel retail.

Maga joined the South Africa-based producer two years ago as general manager of its Asia Pacific duty-free operations, which became Distell’s top travel retail performer despite market challenges.

Moët Hennessy’s former global account director for DFS Group, Harry Kartasis, will succeed Maga as Distell’s general manager of Asia Pacific duty-free.

“The single malt expressions, their interesting provenance and long ageing, and Amarula, with its refreshed packaging, unique story and taste, offer excellent opportunity in a range of markets in the region,” said Kartasis.

“Similarly, Nederburg, which already enjoys a fine reputation, has come to the market with impressive new livery to enhance its image, while Bisquit Cognac is proving well-suited to a selection of cruise and other channels.”

Distell said it will continue to drive in prestige single malt, Cognac, liqueur and wine brands across Cognac and other Asia countries.

The group also confirmed that its travel retail sales in Brazil and Argentina are showing “encouraging signs”, while commodity-based economies are “picking up”.