Constellation Brands acquired a minority stake in The Real McCoy, a copper pot distilled, American bourbon barrel aged rum. Constellation will also handle distribution for the brand throughout the United States, and provide assistance with marketing and operations.
Bailey Pryor, a six-time Emmy award-winning documentary producer, was inspired to start The Real McCoy rum while producing a film about rum runner Bill McCoy for PBS. He will continue to manage the brand as CEO, and all distribution partners outside the United States will remain the same.
Also remaining the same: All senior executive positions in the company, including CMO Jennifer Pryor, COO John Esposito and CFO Walter Brunner, as well as Vice Presidents Mac Jones, Abbi Miller and Linda Lofstrom, who will focus on key account management and expansion into new states.
“We are excited about working with Constellation Brands because they clearly understand the marketplace and know how to build brands from the ground up, while maintaining product integrity,” Pryor said.
“This doesn’t change who we are or how we go to market,” said Esposito. “The collaboration with Constellation allows us to reach new consumers, expand distribution and grow brand awareness, all while maintaining the integrity of what The Real McCoy is all about,”.
“We look forward to working with Bailey, Jennifer, Richard, John and The Real McCoy team,” said Constellation Brands’ Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Bill Newlands. “The spirits category represents a significant growth opportunity for Constellation, and continued investments in artisan brands like The Real McCoy are part of our overall Total Beverage Alcohol strategy.”