By Andy Young
Spirits Platform, the recently launched premium spirits distribution company, has announced the appointment of Ian Atherton as its chief executive officer.
The newSpirits Platform senior management team
Atherton officially started with the company on 1 January 2016 and has been joined by a senior management team, which will aim to drive the company forward as it "embarks on an exciting future".
As well as Atherton, the senior team will consist of: Finance, IT and Operations Director, David Moore; Sales Director, Adam Trewin and HR /Corporate Planning Director, Marie-Claire Piga.
Atherton, who has over 30 years of experience in building premium spirit brands with Suntory Australia, said he was excited by what the company could achieve in the coming year.
"I’m very proud to lead such a passionate and experienced team as we grow an incredible portfolio of some of the world’s best independent premium spirit brands," Atherton said.
“2016 is promising to be very successful as we build momentum with our key suppliers and customers who have been extremely supportive during the start-up phase. We already have dynamic programs in place across all channels supported by an evolving digital platform.”
Spirits Platform was formed in August last year by its senior management team with joint venture partners Remy Cointreau and Diego Zamora to support premium, independent brands that exited Suntory Australia following the establishment of Beam Suntory.
The company's portfolio currently includes Cointreau, Licor 43, Rémy Martin, Louis XIII, Tia Maria, Disaronno, Mount Gay Rum, Villa Massa Limoncello, Metaxa, Sierra Tequila, Chartreuse, Opal Nera and Gin Mare.