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Tag: pillars

  • Four Pillars Gin Co-founder Stuart Gregor Ascends To Ceo At Lark Distilling Co

    Four Pillars Gin Co-founder Stuart Gregor Ascends To Ceo At Lark Distilling Co

    Whisky manufacturing company, Lark Distilling Co, has announced the appointment of Stuart Gregor as it’s Managing Director, effective from January.

    Gregor is known for co-establishing the Four Pillars Gin brand in 2013, which transformed from a small-scale craft operation into a worldwide recognized name in gin production. His successful venture was sold to Lion, a subsidiary of Kirin Group, in 2023. Additionally, Gregor has been serving as a non-executive director at Lark since the previous year.

    Decades of Industry Expertise

    According to Lark Distilling Co, Gregor’s appointment as CEO is marked by his extensive industry experience, spanning over a quarter-century. His proficiency covers areas such as brand creation, premium beverage marketing, international expansion, and entrepreneurship.

    In addition to his entrepreneurial exploits, Gregor has made significant strides in public relations and marketing. He co-founded the PR and marketing firm, Liquid Ideas, and has held the position of president at the Australian Distillers Association in the past.

    New Chapter for Lark Distilling Co

    Domenic Panaccio, the chairman of Lark Distilling Co, voiced his confidence in Gregor, highlighting his deep familiarity with the company and his role in the brand’s evolution. “Today’s announcement reflects our strong focus on effective succession planning, ensuring a smooth and orderly transition that positions Lark for continued success in its next phase of growth,” added Panaccio.

    Gregor will be replacing Satya (Sash) Sharma, who will conclude his tenure as CEO on December 31, after leading the company for three years. Sharma will be taking up the role of MD for Asia Pacific Ragion at Campari Group following his departure.

    Lark’s Legacy

    Established in 1992 by Bill and Lyn Lark, the company is renowned for its exceptional Tasmanian whisky, primarily its signature Single Malt Signature Collection. In the 2024-25 fiscal year, the company reported a modest revenue increase of 2.6 percent, amounting to $17.2 million, alongside a loss of $11.3 million.

    Questions & Answers

    Who has been appointed as the new CEO of Lark Distilling Co?
    Stuart Gregor has been appointed as the new CEO and Managing Director of Lark Distilling Co.

    What has been Stuart Gregor’s significant contribution to the alcohol industry prior to this role?
    Stuart Gregor co-founded the globally celebrated gin brand, Four Pillars Gin, and has been serving as a non-executive director at Lark Distilling Co.

    Who will Stuart Gregor be replacing at Lark Distilling Co?
    Stuart Gregor will be succeeding Satya (Sash) Sharma as the CEO of Lark Distilling Co.

  • Metcash Reports Robust Financial Growth, Hits $17.3 Billion Group Sales Revenue

    Metcash Reports Robust Financial Growth, Hits $17.3 Billion Group Sales Revenue

    Metcash, a leading wholesale distribution and marketing company, has recently announced a robust financial performance for the current fiscal year. The company’s group sales revenue reached $17.3 billion, marking a 7.2 per cent growth compared to last year’s figure of $15.9 billion.

    Financial Performance Details

    The company’s underlying group EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) witnessed a considerable rise, going from $688 million to $737.8 million. Further, there was also a 10.1 per cent increase in its reported profit after tax as the figures moved from $257.2 million to $283.3 million.

    In terms of sector-wise performance, Metcash’s food division reported sales revenue of $8.8 billion, excluding tobacco sales. This substantial figure, which is a 20.8 per cent increase year-on-year, has been largely attributed to the growth of supermarkets and convenience stores, along with Metcash’s partnership with Superior Foods beginning this June.

    Sector-wise Breakdown

    Metcash’s liquor division also exhibited growth, with the revenue rising by 3.3 per cent, moving from $5.1 billion to $5.3 billion. This growth has been fuelled by the successful performance of all IBA brands under Metcash, including Cellarbrations, The Bottle-O, IGA Liquor, and Porters. However, this sector did see a minor setback as its liquor EBITDA decreased from $125.7 million to $123.5 million, marking a 1.8 per cent drop.

    Lastly, Metcash’s hardware division reported a revenue of $3.6 billion, indicating a 2.4 per cent increase. This growth can be attributed to Metcash’s acquisition of Total Tools.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the total group sales revenue reported by Metcash for the current fiscal year?
    The company reported a total group sales revenue of $17.3 billion.

    Which division of Metcash recorded the highest increase in sales revenue?
    Metcash’s food division recorded the highest increase in sales revenue, marking a 20.8 per cent growth year-on-year.

    What factors contributed to the growth of Metcash’s hardware division?
    The growth in the hardware division is largely due to the company’s acquisition of Total Tools.