Breakthru Beverage extends deal with US’s largest rum producer

US drinks wholesaler Breakthru Beverage Group has expanded its distribution partnership with rum producer Florida Caribbean Distillers to include Illinois.

Effective from 1 April 2019, Breakthru Beverage will distribute the firm’s portfolio in Illinois. Florida Caribbean Distillers’ range is currently available in Florida, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Washington DC through the US wholesaler.

Founded in 1943, Florida Caribbean Distillers is described as the US’s largest rum producer. The company also produces sangria, vodka, whiskey, wine-based products, cordial, and liqueurs.

“We share a successful relationship with Breakthru in several markets and look forward to expanding our work together into Illinois – a key market for Florida Caribbean Distillers,” said Dave Steiner, national sales director of Florida Caribbean Distillers.

“Breakthru shares our growth expectations and we intend to take full advantage of their route-to-market capabilities and industry expertise to scale our brands into more on- and off-premise accounts across the state.”

Kevin Roberts, executive vice president, supplier development of Breakthru Beverage Group, added: “With the evolving consumer trends, we continue to seek emerging brands to satisfy strategic portfolio opportunities and as a result we are excited to expand our relationship with Florida Caribbean Distillers across Illinois.”