US-based distilled spirits supplier Heaven Hill Brands has expanded the presence of its portfolio in the country by partnering with alcohol beverage distributor Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.

Under the agreement, Southern Glazer’s will distribute Heaven Hill Brands portfolio in the West Region, as well as Control States divisions.

Speaking of the development, Southern Glazer’s CEO Wayne Chaplin said: “This commitment from Heaven Hill comes at one of the most challenging times our industry, and the world, has ever faced.

“While both of our family-owned businesses have been hyper-focused on protecting the safety and wellbeing of our employees during the Covid-19 pandemic, we also believe it’s just as important to continue planning for the future so we are positioned to be even stronger when this crisis is over.

“Our relationship with Heaven Hill goes back decades, and our ability to continue moving forward during this difficult period speaks volumes to that relationship. The Southern Glazer’s team looks forward to further integrations of Heaven Hill’s outstanding portfolio; preparing for growth and success as businesses in the U.S. ultimately prepare to reopen.”

Southern Glazer’s will represent the new Heaven Hill business in a dual capacity with Heaven Hill’s current distributor partner beginning today.

From 1 June, Southern Glazer’s will become an exclusive distributor of Heaven Hill Brands portfolio in West Region and Control States divisions.

Heaven Hill Brands president Max Shapira said: “Southern Glazer’s has always been a tremendous partner and now we are excited to expand that relationship through their first-class organisation, structure and route-to-market.

“Our diverse portfolio of recognised brands positions us for success and we look forward to working with Southern Glazer’s on a greater scale to help us execute our strategy and achieve our long-term business goals.”