Brown-Forman, owner of Jack Daniel’s, has announced the launch of its own distribution business in Japan.

 

The new business will see the company’s Japanese distribution brought in-house. The news follows that of the new Brown-Forman headquarters in Tokyo, which opened in late 2023.

 

Ricardo Cupido, VP, managing director, Brown‑Forman Asia, commented: “Japan is an important market as we drive the growth of our Jack Daniel’s family of brands, Woodford Reserve, and our broader super premium portfolio. The significant expansion of our own Brown‑Forman Japan organisation and capabilities reflects our strong belief in the immense potential of the Japanese market.”

 

Thomas Hinrichs, EVP, president of Brown‑Forman Emerging International, added: “This strategic move allows us to introduce our brands to consumers with an even greater focus and prioritisation. We see great opportunity in Japan given the strength of our portfolio which also includes The GlenDronach, Benriach, and Glenglassaugh…”

 

In March, Brown-Forman also announced its intention to establish its own distribution business in Italy. The planned change will take effect from 1 May 2025.

 

Yiannis Pafilis, EVP, president of Europe, Brown‑Forman, said: “Italy is an important market for driving the growth of our Jack Daniel’s family of brands globally and, in particular, for our latest portfolio additions, Gin Mare and Diplomático Rum. We believe that the creation of our own distribution business in this market will offer increased consumer focus and prioritisation of our brands, empowered by a talented team.”