Former Amber Beverage execs create UK distributor
Seymour Ferreira, former CEO of Amber Beverage Group, and Douglas Bratten, former chief operating officer of Amber Beverage UK, have launched Chimera, a new UK distribution and brand development company.
Chimera Brand Development focuses on premium and super-premium adult beverages and has opened its portfolio with three brands.
The first of the trio is La Gritona Tequila, a 100% blue agave Tequila by Melly Baraja, made in a small distillery in the highlands of Jalisco. Meanwhile, Strucchi Vermouth from Barbaresco offers a range of red, white, dry and bitter Italian vermouths. Concluding the trio, Riviera Roc Aperitivo is crafted from Italian Rosé wine, infused with grapefruit, herbal hints of rosemary, and thyme.
Chimera was founded on the principle that the traditional distributor model needs rethinking and adapting to a customised brand experience.
The company’s approach aims to create long-term value for carefully chosen brands, focusing on providing strategic positioning, market development, and customised distribution models.
The business is dedicated to representing independently owned brands that prioritise sustainability and offer a distinct competitive advantage in the UK market.
CEO Ferreira said: “Our mission is to deliver a focused, collaborative and effective distribution model. We aim to provide brand owners with the commercial support they need while maintaining the integrity and identity of each brand we represent.”
The company provides brands with a flexible service model that includes four platform options. These options range from import-only services to full-service distribution, brand building, and market execution.
Chief operating officer and finance director Bratten added: “By working with a smaller number of high-potential brands across all categories, we’re able to give each brand the time, attention and strategic input they need to grow successfully in the UK market.”
In five years, Chimera aims to become a leading player in the UK’s independent distribution space, specialising in high-quality, premium and unique brands.
Last year, Jekaterina Stuģe, the former CEO of Amber Beverage, invested in Italian aperitivo brand Sprissetto.
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