Illva Saronno has signed a deal for Monarq Group to distribute its brands, including Disaronno and Tia Maria, in the Caribbean.

Monarq will handle all of Illva Saronno’s drinks brands in domestic and travel retail markets in the Caribbean, the companies said in a joint statement today (4 October). Illva Saronno previously distributed its own portfolio in the region, Monarq Group founder Robert de Monchy told just-drinks.

“The change was made because Illva was looking for a one-stop shop for this region with different characteristics in each of the islands,” said de Monchy. “Illva identified that they were looking for a dedicated regional distributor with a hands-on approach and in-depth knowledge of the Caribbean.

“Tia Maria’s Jamaican heritage forms an excellent platform for further expansion in the Caribbean,” he added.  

Illva Saronno’s director for the Americas, Francesco Leccisi, said: “Monarq Group has a proven track record in building brands; this is especially important for Tia Maria which has recently changed ownership.” Monarq already handles Heineken, Taittinger and Bols.

Pernod Ricard sold coffee liqueur brand Tia Maria to Italy-based Illva Saronno for EUR125m (US$177.7m) in 2009.

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