Allied takes on Grey Goose in global duty-free

?Exclusive to TRW: By John Rimmer

Allied Domecq has won the global duty-free distribution rights for French ultra-premium vodka Grey Goose. The supplier has held the rights for the US duty-free market since the brand's launch in 1997, but will now partner Grey Goose in its bid to expand in markets worldwide.

Allied Domecq Duty Free Americas vice-president Mike Holden said the company would be selective in its targeting of travel-retail accounts for Grey Goose, reflecting the vodka's high-end status. "Grey Goose is the perfect complement to our range of premium brands," he commented. "Quality of distribution in key travel-retail locations will be our focus across the globe."

Grey Goose is produced in Cognac, France by manufacturer Sidney Frank Importing Co Inc. Sidney Frank vice-president brand development Bill Thompson said: "We're very excited to have Allied Domecq on board. Together we're looking forward to a great business."