Hi-Spirits becomes Sazerac UK

Buffalo Trace owner Sazerac has renamed its UK spirits distribution arm as part of the firm’s “globalisation efforts”.

Hi-Spirits UK will now be known as Sazerac UK to reflect the parent company’s ‘commitment to expanding and growing its portfolio around the world’.

“The renaming of Sazerac’s various global offices marks an important step in our globalisation efforts by allowing us to connect Sazerac’s heritage and history from our sites and homeplaces around the world into a single identity,” said Jake Wenz, president and CEO of New Orleans-headquartered Sazerac.

“We’re energised by the opportunities that lay ahead as we continue to expand and grow our portfolio around the world. We are proud to have such an outstanding team in the UK helping to lead the way.”

Based in London, Hi-Spirits UK was formed in 1999 and claims to be among the nation’s top 10 spirits companies.

The company was acquired by Sazerac in 2016 and distributes Sazerac brands including Buffalo Trace Bourbon, cinnamon-flavoured whisky liqueur Fireball, Southern Comfort liqueur and Paddy Irish Whiskey. It also distributes partner brands including Antica Sambuca, strawberry cream liqueur Tequila Rose and Warner’s gin.

Laura Edwards, Sazerac UK’s managing director, added: “Thanks to the commitment of our talented team and the support of our customer partners, we are improving our reach and our brand equity in the UK.

“We are thrilled to continue our exciting growth journey as Sazerac UK.”

Irish subsidiary Hi-Spirits Ireland will also be renamed Sazerac Ireland.

The rename is the latest move by Sazerac in the UK. The firm revealed plans to open a Buffalo Trace store in London’s Covent Garden in early 2024.

In 2022, Sazerac purchased Lough Gill Distillery in County Sligo, Ireland, and work is underway to develop the 100-plus acre site into a whiskey facility and visitor attraction.