Duvel Moortgat, the Belgium brewer behind the Duvel and Vedett brands, is setting up a UK office from the end of this month.
Matt Willson will head the UK operation as general manager - he is currently general manager for the UK, Russia, Scandinavia and Ireland . The brewery will be located in the Old Truman’s brewery in Shoreditch, east London.
James Clay had been handling UK distribution of Duvel Moortgat’s brands, which also include Duvel Tripel Hop, Maredsous, La Chouffe, De Koninck, Liefmans and Boulevard.
Willson said: “We would certainly like to thank James Clay for all they have done for the brand over the last 25 years.
“But this is a big moment for us, and we aim to maximise the significant opportunity that exists in the UK market. Our brands are in strong growth and we have an exciting programme of consumer, trade and brand initiatives, which we will be bringing to market later this year. This will include the launch of beers from Duvel Moortgat’s recent acquisition, Boulevard Brewery of Kansas City.
“Setting up our own office in the Old Truman’s brewery in Shoreditch will give us the impetus to build a greater platform for Boulevard and all our existing, and future, brands. All distribution, marketing and sales will be handled by the new office.”
Before joining the company in 2008, Willson worked for Coors Brewers both in the on-trade and off-trade.
