Campari strengthens premium spirit range with acquisition of Bulldog Gin

By Mathew Lyons

Published: 21 February, 2017

Gruppo Campari has bought Bulldog Gin for £47 million.

Campari has been distributing the premium gin brand since 2014 as part of an agreement which included an option to purchase by 2020.

Bulldog Gin was launched in the US in 2007 and sells some 150,000 nine-litre cases worldwide. Sales of £9.3m in 2016 showed a 22% rise year on year.

It was established by former investment banker, Anshuman Vohra, who will remain with the company in the short term in a founder/brand ambassador capacity.

Bob Kunze-Concewitz, chief executive of Gruppo Campari, said: "This deal is an opportunity to consolidate our presence as a key player in the attractive super premium gin category via a super-premium brand with significant growth potential.

"From a distribution stand point thanks to Bulldog Gin we will further increase our on-premise focus, particularly in the US, where the group is currently strengthening its on-trade capabilities."

Bulldog Gin was created in 2007 by entrepreneur and ex-investment banker, Anshuman Vohra. Mr. Vohra said: "Bulldog has always been a labour of love for me and I'm quite pleased to hand over control of Bulldog to a venerable institution such as Gruppo Campari. I've had the pleasure of working with their very professional organization for the last few years and am confident the brand will continue to excel in its new home."

Bulldog Gin is distilled in the UK in traditional copper pot stills.

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