Kollaras & Co has signed a distribution agreement with north China’s largest wine importer.
The company said the move will facilitate its expansion into the area through multiple channels.
The partnership between Kollaras & Co and The Beijing ABA Company was cemented at The China International Import Expo, held in Shanghai on November 5-10, 2019.
Kollaras brands to be distributed by the iconic importer were on display at the three-day expo - a major initiative of the Chinese government to support trade liberalisation and economic development in China.
The event was opened by Chinese President Xi Jinping, with expected attendance of over 800,000 visitors across the three days.
Kollaras & Co Managing Director John Kollaras, in partnership with ABA attended an exclusive MOU signing on Tuesday, with NSW Deputy Premier, John Barilaro present to witness the event.
The distribution agreement will see Kollaras brands distributed through on-premise, off premise and online channels throughout North China, through Beijing ABA’s strong distribution network of seven affiliated companies in four cities.
REgarding the distribution agreement, John Kollaras said: “Today marks a new chapter for our businesses. This joint venture is a great step as we strive for greater market penetration in North Asia. We are truly excited to continue engaging in one of the most rapidly-moving, innovative and dynamic markets in the world.”
Li Yan, General Manager of ABA added: “Our mission is the bring only the best brands to end consumers and we sincerely look forward to a successful, long-term partnership."
NSW Deputy Premier, John Barilaro, also commented: “It’s fantastic to see Australian companies expanding into China – But what’s even greater is to see successful family-owned organisations immerse themselves into evolving markets.”
“Mr Li Yan and Beijing ABA Limited – Today you are not only buying into Australia and its wonderful wines, you are most importantly buying into a family brand.”
Australian wineries Shanghai bound as exports grow
Kollaras & Co is among the Australian wine producers in Shanghai for back-to-back trade and media engagement opportunities.
The China International Import Expo (5–10 November 2019) leads into the Wine Australia China Awards (11 November 2019), followed by ProWine China (12–14 November) and Decanter Shanghai Fine Wine Encounter (16 November 2019).
Buoyed by the continued growth in exports to China in the year ending September 2019, Australian wine exhibitors will demonstrate their long-term commitment to this important market, with wine tastings, award celebrations and a record presence at international trade shows throughout November.
Wine Australia Chief Executive Officer Andreas Clark said that with the Australian Government’s $50 million Export and Regional Wine Support Package (the $50m Package) nearing completion, it was great to see wine producers taking advantage of the targeted activities.
"We’re investing approximately $4.6 million of $50m Package funds in 2019–20 to grow the demand for Australia’s fine wine in China through increased availability and consumer awareness," he said.
"When it comes to selling wine overseas, there is no substitute for being on the ground in market, pouring wines, telling stories and connecting with people, to give them a deeper understanding of Australian wine.
"By dovetailing our China Awards with the China International Import Expo, ProWine China and Decanter Shanghai, we’re giving wineries greater opportunity to maximise their presence in market and influence a broader trade and consumer base."
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