'A major milestone in our global travel retail journey': Northern Ireland drinks firm expands worldwide footprint with new partnership
Partnership brings Ukiyo Blossom, Tokyo Dry, and Yuzu gins to international airports, boosting the brand’s travel retail presence and premium gin footprint
Belfast drinks firm Kirker Greer Spirits has expanded its global travel retail footprint through a partnership with travel retailers and distributor Gebr Heinemann, accelerating the international growth of its Ukiyo Japanese Gin range.
The agreement was said to reinforce the company’s commitment to bringing its portfolio to travellers worldwide.
Ukiyo Blossom Gin, Ukiyo Tokyo Dry Gin and Ukiyo Yuzu Gin will be available through Gebr. Heinemann’s airport retail and distribution channels from April.
Headquartered in Hamburg, Gebr Heinemann supplies premium spirits across a network of international airports and retail partners.
The new agreement establishes a scalable platform for Ukiyo across the Heinemann estate, significantly amplifying the brand’s global reach.
The listing adds a differentiated Japanese craft proposition to the gin category, complementing portfolios traditionally weighted towards whisky and vodka.
Ryan McFarland, chief commercial and strategy officer at Drinksology Kirker Greer, said: "Partnering with Gebr. Heinemann is a major milestone in our global travel retail journey. At our core, we’re committed to working with best-in-class partners who don't just move boxes, but truly understand how to engage consumers through retail theatre and category-defining excitement.
"As Ukiyo continues its growth trajectory, launching our full gin range with Heinemann further cements the brand’s presence at the heart of the European travel retail channel. It also proves that there is appetite for innovative, independent brands to challenge the status quo on the world’s most prestigious shelves."
Manuel Schilling, head of buying spirits at Gebr Heinemann, added: "By listing Ukiyo Japanese Gins, we have the opportunity to lead the premium Japanese gin segment in travel retail.
"The brand combines authentic provenance, striking design, and activation-ready appeal, making it highly relevant for discerning international travellers seeking premium gifting and contemporary flavour experiences."