Paul Hletko steps away from Few Spirits
The founder of Heaven Hill-owned Few Spirits, Paul Hletko, has left the Chicago-based distillery after more than a decade at its helm.
Hletko was also the distiller and president of Few Spirits, a gin and whiskey producer based in Illinois.
Few Spirits was one of the first craft distilleries to begin production in the US when it launched in 2011.
The Chicago spirits maker came under new ownership in 2022 when its parent company, Samson & Surrey, was sold to US whiskey giant Heaven Hill.
Taking to LinkedIn last week, Hletko announced his departure: “With the New Year come new opportunities, and all good things come to an end. As of today, I am no longer with Few Spirits.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we built together – from a wild idea backed by nothing but a smile and handshake to a brand recognised far beyond Chicago, and at its height, far beyond my own expectations.
“Even more than that, I’m proud of the people who made it happen. The team’s creativity, grit, and commitment turned ambition into reality, and that work will always matter to me.
“I’m grateful to everyone who contributed to the journey and supported the brand along the way. I’m looking forward to what’s next.”
Hletko declined to comment further and did not share what his future plans entail.
Heaven Hill Brands confirmed Hletko’s departure, stating he left the business on 31 December.
“Paul leaves the Few brand in our care, confident in its future,” the company said in a statement.
“As we proudly carry the Few legacy forward at Heaven Hill, we do so with deep respect for what Paul created and the culture of creativity he nurtured.
“We look forward to building on the strong foundation Paul created as Few continues to grow within the Heaven Hill family.”
Hletko has also dabbled in agave spirits, joining forces with Redemption Rye Whiskey creator Dave Schmier to buy Goza Tequila in April 2023.
Hletko was also the former president of the American Craft Spirits Association.
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