US-based Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits has signed an agreement to become the exclusive wholesaler of Mast-Jägermeister US across a 45-market distribution network, including an additional 13 open markets and 11 control markets.

Southern Glazer’s CEO Wayne Chaplin said: “We recognise that it takes an incredible amount of confidence and trust to put a supplier’s entire US distribution network into our hands.

“It’s a testament to the strong partnership we’ve established together and we remain committed to building on our mutual success and introducing a new generation to the iconic Jägermeister brand.”

“We believe this expansion will enable us to better execute and capture growth opportunities in all channels while adding incremental value to the evolving demand of both retailers and consumers.”

With the agreement, Jägermeister will leverage Southern Glazer’s National Account structure, which covers 95% of its retail customers’ operating units.

Southern Glazer’s has been associating with Jägermeister for building the brand in both the on and off-premise categories.

Mast-Jägermeister US CEO Jeff Popkin said: “Today’s announcement marks a significant step towards building the Jägermeister brand in the US.

“By enhancing our partnership with Southern Glazer’s, we believe this expansion will enable us to better execute and capture growth opportunities in all channels while adding incremental value to the evolving demand of both retailers and consumers.”

With more than 20,000 employees, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits operates in 44 US states and in the District of Columbia, Canada and the Caribbean.