Proof Drinks Takes Over Distribution of Don Papa Rum in the UK

UK importer and distributor Proof Drinks has officially taken over the distribution of Don Papa Rum, a super-premium Philippine rum brand owned by Diageo. This new partnership aims to increase the brand’s availability while providing stronger support for retailers and on-trade customers.

A Strategic Move for Diageo and Proof Drinks

The agreement, which took effect immediately, reinforces Don Papa Rum’s positioning in the competitive UK market. Although the financial details of the deal remain undisclosed, Proof Drinks confirmed its commitment to strengthening the brand’s presence.

Diageo acquired Don Papa Rum in March 2023, investing €246 million ($252.7 million) upfront. The acquisition also included a deferred consideration of €4 million and a contingent consideration of up to €178 million. This contingent payment, expected through 2028, depends on meeting specific financial performance targets, reflecting the brand’s promising growth trajectory.

Don Papa Rum’s Contribution to Diageo’s Growth

According to Diageo’s 2023/24 financial report, Don Papa Rum generated $13 million in net sales for the group. Founded in 2012 by entrepreneur Stephen Carroll alongside Andrew John Garcia, Don Papa Rum has steadily gained international recognition, particularly in the super-premium rum segment.

Proof Drinks Strengthens Its Portfolio

Proof Drinks distributes several premium brands in the UK, including Mr Black, the coffee liqueur Diageo acquired in 2022. The company has a track record of successfully expanding spirits brands in the UK market.

John Vider, Managing Director of Proof Drinks, praised Diageo’s efforts in developing Don Papa Rum. “The team at Diageo has done a tremendous job nurturing and refining the remarkable vision originally created by Stephen Carroll,” Vider stated. “Their stewardship has elevated Don Papa Rum to new heights and contributed significantly to the growth of the super-premium rum category.”

Previous Expansion Moves by Proof Drinks

In 2023, Proof Drinks also secured a deal to distribute Finlandia vodka in the UK. This partnership followed Coca-Cola HBC’s acquisition of the vodka brand from Brown-Forman for $220 million. Proof Drinks began distributing Finlandia as part of its collaboration with Coca-Cola HBC, further strengthening its presence in the UK spirits market.

The Future of Don Papa Rum in the UK

With Proof Drinks now handling Don Papa Rum’s distribution, the brand is poised for further expansion and visibility in the UK market. This strategic move aligns with Diageo’s vision of growing its premium spirits portfolio and capitalizing on the increasing demand for high-quality rum.

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Source of information

Just Drinks’ Article: Proof Drinks to handle Diageo’s Don Papa rum in the UK written by Dean Best

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