Helmsman Imports hosts takeover in London
New York-based importer Helmsman Imports will host a Craft Spirits Takeover at The Star by Liverpool Street after BCB London.
Taking place on 12 May from 6.30pm, the takeover will offer attendees an opportunity to network in a relaxed setting.
The event will serve as an after-hours continuation of the last day of BCB London (11-12 May), focusing on the brands in Helmsman’s portfolio alongside the bartenders, operators, and founders who drive the on-trade.
The evening will feature curated offerings from featured spirit partners, live karaoke, and competitive prizes structured around what the company describes as ‘equal parts discovery and delight’.
At the centre of the event will be four brands: Brazilian Avuá Cachaça, Paladar Tequila, Casa Malka Tequila and Tarsier Southeast Asian Spirit.
The Artisan Drinks Co will provide cocktail mixer support, with Beetle Juice Events managing the event production.
The Spirits Business is the media partner for the evening.
The BCB London Craft Spirits Takeover is part of Helmsman’s broader participation at the 2026 trade show. It represents a discussion about the American market, involving individuals who have navigated it from both sides of the importer relationship.
Jeff Diego, founder and CEO of Helmsman Imports, commented on the company’s role at BCB London: “Helmsman is at BCB not just as an importer, but as a fellow founder. We have built brands, lost sleep over compliance deadlines, and learned the hard way what it takes to earn a place in the American market.
“That experience is not a footnote to what we do. It is the whole reason we built Helmsman.”
Helmsman Imports functions as a Tier 1 importer of record within the US three-tier distribution system.
The company has five warehouses located in New Jersey, New York, Florida, and California. Currently, Helmsman Imports manages more than 120 brands of both domestically and internationally produced spirits.
Spaces for the London takeover are limited, and registration is now available through Eventbrite under Helmsman Imports Craft Spirits Takeover.
Interested parties can also register directly at eventbrite.com/e/helmsman-imports-presents-craft-spirits-takeover-at-bcb-london-tickets-1988481277028.
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