Kozak Vodka lands in UK
Bayadera Group has appointed Fortitude Drinks as the exclusive distributor of Ukrainian vodka brand Kozak in the UK and Ireland.
Kozak Vodka, a Western trademark adaptation of the Kozatska Rada, is available in 20 global markets, selling 2.8 million 9-litre cases annually.
Described as ‘the fastest-growing vodka in Ukraine’, the brand will be in the UK through a distribution deal with Fortitude Drinks UK.
Kozak Vodka joins the distributor’s expanding spirits portfolio, which includes brands such as Hawksbill Caribbean Rum, Café Solo Coffee Liqueur, and Pampero Rum.
With an established distribution network and expertise in launching high-quality brands in the UK market, Fortitude Drinks is said to be well-positioned to successfully introduce Kozak Vodka to key retail outlets and select on-trade channels.
Nick England, managing director of Fortitude Drinks UK, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with the Bayadera Group and welcome Kozak Vodka to the Fortitude Drinks family.
“Kozak is an exceptional vodka with real quality and authenticity, so it aligns perfectly with our mission to provide UK consumers and partners with exceptional spirits from around the world.
“We are confident that this partnership will deliver strong results and help grow Kozak and Ukrainian vodka’s reputation in the highly competitive UK market.”
The launch marks the vodka debut for Kozak’s owner, Kyiv-based Bayadera Group, in the mainstream UK market, and is part of the company’s gradual expansion in Western Europe with its vodka portfolio.
Jonathan Ashworth, CEO of export at Bayadera Group, commented: “It just felt a really nice fit with the Fortitude Spirits Group team, given I have known Warren Scott for several years.
“We are delighted that Fortitude Drinks was keen to introduce an authentic Ukrainian vodka to the UK market, and I look forward to a long and sustained partnership with Fortitude Drinks as we aim to introduce this interesting vodka proposition to the mainstream UK vodka market.”
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