Speciality Brands takes on Beluga vodka distribution

Drinks agency Speciality Brands has taken on the distribution of Russian vodka brand Beluga in the UK.

Beluga vodka has joined the Speciality Drinks portfolio in the UK

Speciality Brands will look after on-trade and off-trade distribution of Beluga’s entire portfolio, which includes Beluga Noble, Beluga Transatlantic Racing, Beluga Gold Line and Beluga Allure.

Chris Seale, managing director of Speciality Brands, whose portfolio also includes Hine, Diplomático, Cocchi, Nikka and Michter’s, said: “The higher end of the vodka category is currently experiencing a resurgence and Beluga vodka presents us with a truly exciting opportunity.

“The brand is well respected and has already built a strong reputation in the trade for its unique taste and superior quality, but there’s plenty of potential for growth in the UK.

“We’re looking forward to taking it to the next level and establishing it further within the super-premium traditional vodka category.”

Beluga was established in 2002 at the Mariinsk Distillery in Siberia, and is filtered three times during the production process.

Commenting on the partnership, Pavel Ulyukav, Beluga export director, said: “For the past five years, Beluga has been growing steadily and is amongst the top three super-premium traditional vodka brands globally.

“We are very proud of this result but do not intend to rest on our laurels. In the UK, we lag some way behind our global position and are looking forward to working with Speciality Brands to address this.

“We have ambitious goals but we are confident that with the team’s strong knowledge and understanding of the UK market, these can be achieved.”