Alcohol manufacturer and distributor Amber Beverage Group (ABG) has confirmed that it will acquire a controlling interest in Russian spirits producer Permalko.

The acquisition is expected to further support ABG’s globalisation efforts. The company intends to retain all of Permalko’s existing operational management team and staff members.

Permalko is one of the oldest spirits manufacturers in Russia and is engaged in the production of vodka. Its portfolio includes more than 20 kinds of spirit, including vodka, balsam and liqueurs.

“Our strategy is focused on the large markets that will allow us to continue our growth plans.”

Permalko spirits products are currently exported to the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries, Europe, the US and Africa. It also has a footprint in areas of Russia such as Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Vladivostok and Irkutsk.

Amber Beverage Group’s CEO Seymour Ferreira said: “Our strategy is focused on the large markets that will allow us to continue our growth plans. Currently, we have ten primary markets that we are focusing on. These include the US, Canada, Italy, Spain, Portugal, the UK, Australia and, of course, Russia.

“Having the Permalko team on board will make our position considerably stronger in this growing market.”

In May this year, ABG acquired a majority stake in Think Spirits, an independent distributor of spirit brands in Australia. The deal was expected to help support the company’s global expansion plans.

Headquartered in Luxembourg, ABG produces, bottles, markets, distributes, exports and retails a comprehensive range of beverages.