Admiral Taverns signs Carlsberg distribution deal

As part of the new five-year agreement, Admiral licensees will be able to choose from an extensive portfolio of drinks brands, including its flagship beer brands.

The pub group said it would now begin the work of migrating its business to the new set up with Carlsberg from its existing arrangements with current partner Heineken.

Admiral said that this transitional phase would begin across its pubs in the South West and then be rolled out across the rest of its estate.

Simon Eyles, commercial manager at Admiral Taverns, said: “We are delighted to confirm this new distribution partnership. This is great news for our business – there will be tangible enhancements to service and real benefits to our licensees as a result of this move.

“The distribution service provided by Heineken has been first class. On many occasions they have gone beyond the call of duty and we would like to thank them sincerely for their service.

“Our key aim is to ensure that our licensees are not disrupted in any way and can confidently continue to focus on their businesses during the crossover period.”

Dr Isaac Sheps, chief executive of Carlsberg UK, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen by Admiral Taverns as their logistics partner as it underlines our continuous commitment to the on trade.

"Distribution is an integral element of our business model — of providing a full range of services to the on trade beyond our portfolio of leading beer brands.

"Securing this distribution agreement demonstrates Admiral’s confidence that we will do the right things for them and their licensees. We look forward to giving them the best service possible.”