Melbourne, 28 November 2008 - Foster's Group Limited (Foster's) will move to direct sales, marketing and distribution of its leading wine portfolio in the key Nordic markets of Norway, Sweden and Finland, from early 2009.
Foster's new sales, marketing and distribution business will be a top three supplier of wine in each market and build on the current strength of brands including Beringer, Lindemans, Penfolds, Rosemount and Wolf Blass.
"We have an outstanding wine portfolio in these key Nordic markets and our shift to greater direct control of sales and distribution will build a platform for continued success", said Richard Trimby, Foster's Commercial Director for Continental Europe.
Foster's portfolio was previously distributed in the Nordic region by V&S Group (V&S), recently acquired by global drinks producer Pernod Ricard.
"While we have worked successfully with V&S, we feel the time is now right to drive the next phase of growth through the establishment of a dedicated regional sales organisation", Richard said.
Foster's Nordic business will be headed by existing General Manager, Jonas Hillergren and work is already underway to expand the in-market sales & marketing team. Transfer to the new organisation should be complete by early May 2009.