Tarsier appoints exclusive UK distributor
England-based Tarsier Southeast Asian Spirit has named Chimera Brand Development as its exclusive distributor in the UK.
The strategic partnership is said to represent a ‘significant’ advancement for Tarsier’s vodka and gin brands in the UK’s premium spirits market.
Hammonds of Knutsford previously distributed the brand.
Sherwin Acebuche, co-founder of Tarsier, said: “The demand for Asian flavours in drinks continues to grow. While there are a lot of Japanese brands on offer, there’s very little offering for those seeking Thai, Vietnamese or Filipino flavours, and we aim to capitalise on that.
“We want to thank the team at Hammonds of Knutsford for looking after Tarsier and having us part of their family for two years. We now want to build on that momentum and make Tarsier a success in the UK as much as it is in our export markets.”
Chimera will assume responsibility for Tarsier’s UK sales, distribution, brand support, and customer management, enabling the brand’s team to focus on innovation, production, and international growth.
Tarsier’s portfolio consists of five gins and one vodka, all inspired by the flavours and botanicals of Southeast Asia.
Tim Driver, co-founder of Tarsier, added: “We’ve always been a founder-led brand, and that’s helped us build a loyal following. But, with demand growing across both on- and off-trade, it’s time to scale up our support in the UK. Chimera brings the experience, the network and the resource to help us do just that – while staying true to our vision.”
The brand recently relaunched its Calamansi Citrus Gin and introduced a new embossed bottle made in the UK using 58% recycled black glass.
Seymour Ferreira and Douglas Bratten, both formerly execs at Amber Beverage Group, launched Chimera in May.
Ferreira commented: “We are excited to welcome the Tarsier Southeast Asian Spirit portfolio into Chimera Brand Development. Tarsier’s founder-led, unique take on Asian flavours and design will bring energy, colour and depth to our evolving portfolio.
“At Chimera, we are passionate that our portfolio should be filled with a small, well-curated blend of brands that not only have unique stories, but also a determination to bring to consumers and customers across the UK special and exciting flavours. We are looking forward to helping Tarsier build new audiences and consumers.”
The brand is currently available in 24 global markets, including venues such as Nobu New York and Raffles Hotels in Singapore and Cambodia.
Tarsier Southeast Asian Spirit donates 10% of profits to conservation projects that safeguard the endangered Philippine Tarsier.
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