James Gin names UK distributor
Former Top Gear presenter James May’s gin brand has appointed Craftwork as its exclusive UK distributor.
The strategic appointment responds to ‘rapidly increasing’ demand from the UK trade and reflects James Gin’s expanding presence both domestically and internationally.
Craftwork, a Hampshire-based specialist drinks distributor, was founded in 2018 by industry veteran Mark Dawkins.
Dawkins said: “Welcome to the family, James Gin. At Craftwork, we are committed to becoming the UK’s leading distributor of premium beverage brands, and to add James Gin to our roster is fantastic.
“James and his team have the same ambitions as we do, and it’s time to put UK gin back on the map.”
Craftwork connects premium drinks with the right retailers, bars, and venues across the UK.
James Gin joins the distributor’s portfolio, which includes brands such as Scapegrace from New Zealand, Cockspur Rum, Rebel Bourbon, and Babička Wormwood Vodka.
The gin was launched in 2021 and is made in Wiltshire with the help of master distiller Hugh Anderson of Downton Distillery.
The brand’s gins include Asian Parsnip, Asian Parsnip Navy Strength, London Drizzle, and the recently launched California Dreamgin’. All were conceived by James, inspired by his travelling endeavours over the years.
May commented on the new partnership: “Our experiment, originally intended as a bit of fun, has turned into a gin-fuelled monster and a proper grown-up business.
“Having been fired from every job I ever had (before those TV shows you may remember), it’s obvious that I shouldn’t be allowed anywhere near the controls – just confined to the shed inventing new flavours. So I’m delighted to have Craftwork on board.”
The James Gin range is now available in more than 50 Kew Green Hotels sites.
From US success to the UK
The gin brand has also gained momentum in the US market. On May’s recent trip to California, he was greeted by more than 1,000 fans and 1,000 bottles were sold at four signing events at Total Wine & More stores.
Vishal Patel, CEO of James Gin, said: “We’re on track to double sales this year, and with Craftwork’s UK expertise, we’re excited to tap into the full potential of the UK market.
“We may be a small brand right now, but our ambition is huge. We’re determined to become the leading gin in the UK and the US, and our authentic social media strategy gives us an edge. James’ commitment to the brand is clear for everyone to see, from creating new content each week to touring California doing signing events. We hope to replicate our US success in the UK this summer with the help of Craftwork.”
Currently available in more than 40 markets worldwide, James Gin’s sales surpass £1 million (US$1.3m) a year. The brand’s social media following has skyrocketed to more than one million followers.
In January, the brand made two new leadership hires to drive its global expansion.
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