Black Tears Rum Finland Launch Expands Through Alko

Island Rum Brands has officially expanded into Finland by securing listings for Black Tears Dry Spiced Rum in 144 Alko stores and through the monopoly’s online shop. The Cuban brand achieved this milestone after winning a tender in March 2025, supported by its import and distribution partner, Servaali.

Servaali Drives the Black Tears Rum Finland Success

Servaali, part of the historic Olvi Group founded in 1878, has played a crucial role in the brand’s entry into the Finnish market. With operations across Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, and Denmark, the company brings decades of expertise in multi-beverage distribution.

Fredrik Gahmberg, category manager of spirits at Servaali, praised the brand when speaking to The Spirits Business:

“It is fantastic to see a product that is hitting the right trends. Spiced rum, which is growing in popularity, has low sugar content, authenticity with the Cuban heritage and is spiced with coffee, which is loved by us Finns. Additionally, the packaging is outstanding, so Black Tears is really ticking all the boxes for success.”

Wider Reach for Black Tears Rum Finland

Beyond Alko’s monopoly stores, Servaali has also made Black Tears available to its on-trade customers across Finland. This expansion means consumers can now enjoy the Cuban spiced rum at both retail outlets and bars.

Helena Zakmane, international commercial and marketing director at Island Rum Brands, highlighted the importance of this win in her interview with The Spirits Business:

“Winning a major monopoly tender is always a milestone for a brand. But even more importantly, this paves the way for Black Tears Dry Spiced, our flagship product, to be available to the Finnish consumers not only via the Alko stores, but also at their favourite on-trade venues.”

Black Tears Rum Finland Promotion Continues Globally

Island Rum Brands will continue its international push at the Tax Free World Association (TFWA) event in Cannes from 29 September to 2 October. Visitors can sample the company’s premium Cuban spirits, including Black Tears and La Progresiva, at stand K68 in the Green Village.

Earlier in 2025, Island Rum Brands also closed a private investment round to fuel its global growth strategy.

Looking Ahead

With a strong partnership in place, a monopoly listing, and growing consumer interest in spiced rum, the Black Tears rum Finland launch signals a promising new chapter for the Cuban brand. Both Island Rum Brands and Servaali see Finland as a strategic market where authenticity, heritage, and innovation align with consumer demand.

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Source of information

The Spirits Business Article — Black Tears rum lands in Finland, written by Miona Madsen

The image of the article is courtesy of ©peeterv via Canva.com