Following an extensive review of its Nordic distribution base, Foster’s EMEA has decided to consolidate its entire wine portfolio with V&S Group across the Nordic region in order to provide a better service to its customers.

The agreement covers the full portfolio of Foster’s wine brands, including Lindemans, Penfolds, Rosemount, Wolf Blass and Beringer. The timing of the transfer of the portfolio to V&S is still to be confirmed.

The arrangement sees two of the leading players in the Nordic region joining forces to build a long-term strategic alliance.

Richard Trimby, Commercial Director Continental Europe, Foster’s EMEA comments:  

“Following the acquisition of Southcorp Wines by Foster’s last year, we have been conducting an extensive review and consultation process in the region, in order to more effectively manage our portfolio and provide better service to our customers.

 “By managing the entire portfolio with one Nordic partner, we can offer added value to our customers in terms of service and support and respond better to the needs of the consumer in this important region.  Having carefully considered all the options, we believe that V&S Group offers the best solution for our needs.”

Comment from Anders Carlson, President V&S Wine:

“We are very happy to be Foster’s partner in the Nordic countries. Offering the entire Foster portfolio of strong and competitive brands makes us a strong partner within the Australian category for our customers and we can give an improved service and significantly facilitate their business. For consumers a wide range of high quality competitive Australian wine brands will be available on the Nordic market.”

Note to editors:

Foster’s EMEA is the United Kingdom and European sales and marketing division of Foster’s Wine Estates (FWE). FWE was formed in 2005 when Foster’s acquired Southcorp Wines and combined it with existing subsidiary Beringer Blass Wine Estates.

Foster’s EMEA wines are distributed in more than 32 countries throughout Europe.

With its marketing and support staff based in England the company employs around 140 staff through the UK and Europe and sells around 7.5 million 9-litre cases annually.  In the last fiscal year volume sales increased in Continental Europe by 28% compared to the previous year.

Selling more than 20 wine brands from the world’s key wine producing countries the portfolio offered by Foster’s EMEA includes premium wine brands such as Beringer, Lindemans, Wolf Blass, Penfolds, Rosemount, Matua Valley, Wynns Coonawarra Estate, Castello di Gabbiano, La Belle Terrasse and Saltram.

For further information, please contact:

Maria Öqvist, Vice President Marketing, V&S Wine; , phone +46 733 311 303

James Craig-Wood, Senior Manager Communications, Foster’s EMEA;