Brown-Forman (Louisville, Ky.) and Pernod Ricard have agreed on an ownership change that will affect Australian spirits distributor, Swift and Moore Pty Limited.
Brown-Forman, a 50% shareholder of Swift & Moore, has announced its intention to continue the exclusive distribution of its portfolio of brands (Jack Daniel's, Southern Comfort, Finlandia Vodka, Gentleman Jack, Jack Daniel's Single Barrel, Woodford Reserve and Tuaca liqueur) in Australia through Swift & Moore. Swift & Moore is expected to become a wholly owned subsidiary of Brown-Forman in February 2006. The changes are expected to result in the eventual elimination of approximately 35 positions in Swift & Moore, which represents less than 20% of the total workforce. These will primarily be in areas directly related to the marketing of Allied Domecq brands and other support roles, with virtually no change to the customer-facing sales force.
Pernod Ricard, which became a joint owner of Swift & Moore following its recent acquisition of Allied Domecq, has decided to withdraw as 50% shareholder of Swift & Moore and to transfer distribution of Ballantines Scotch, Beefeater Gin, Kahlua, Malibu and Tia Maria Liqueurs to its wholly-owned subsidiary, Orlando Wyndham, in February 2006.
Brown-Forman is a diversified producer and marketer of fine quality consumer products including Jack Daniel's, Southern Comfort, Finlandia Vodka, Canadian Mist, Fetzer and Bolla Wines, Korbel California Champagne and Hartmann Luggage.
Source: Brown-Forman
