Wisynco and Select Brands announce strategic alliance
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Wisynco Group Limited and Select Brands Limited on Monday announced a new strategic alliance following Wisynco’s acquisition of the assets of Ringtail Bottlers Limited and the signing of a long-term co-packing agreement for the iconic Stone’s Ginger Wine.
Under the agreement, Wisynco will assume production of Stone’s Ginger Wine for Jamaica, the Caribbean and the United States, along with Ringtail’s portfolio of brands, including Irie Moss, Prestige Liqueurs, Bandolero, and Privateer. Select Brands will continue to market and distribute Stones Ginger Wine and the accompanying brands in Jamaica.
In tandem with this, Wisynco has acquired a 30 per cent minority stake in Ringtail Holdings Limited, the parent company of Select Brands Limited, Jamaica’s leading premium wines and spirits distributor.
The alliance recognises Wisynco’s production and distribution reach and Select Brands’ premium brand-building expertise and strong customer focus, positioning both companies to unlock new growth opportunities across Jamaica and international markets.
“This acquisition and partnership mark a significant milestone in Wisynco’s 60th anniversary year as we continue to expand our beverage and spirits portfolio,” said Andrew Mahfood, chief executive officer of Wisynco Group Limited. “Stone’s Ginger Wine is a brand with deep heritage, loved by Jamaicans and consumers worldwide. We are proud to take on its production and ensure it continues to thrive both here and abroad. Working with Select Brands allows us to amplify this growth while staying true to the brand’s legacy.”
“What makes this transaction so exciting is the alignment of values and vision between our companies,” said David McConnell, co-managing director of Select Brands Limited. “By leveraging Wisynco’s production and distribution strengths alongside Select Brands’ expertise in premium brand-building, we can optimise the performance of our global alcohol beverage portfolios while continuing to serve Jamaican consumers with the quality and brands they trust.”
Mahfood added, “Now was the right time for this partnership. It complements Wisynco’s broader growth strategy while aligning us with the preeminent leader in wines, spirits and the premium on-premise trade. Both companies will continue to operate independently, but with strategies that deliver strong commercial synergies in promotions and route-to-market execution.”
McConnell agreed: “Ultimately, this is about growth and innovation. Together we are ensuring that iconic Jamaican and international brands like Stone’s Ginger Wine remain accessible, relevant and celebrated both at home and abroad.”