Former CEO at Delhi Duty Free Services and ARI Executive Philip Eckles has been welcomed into the fold of one of the drinks industry’s most prestigious societies as a new Keeper of the Quaich.

Keepers are widely regarded as those who have made an outstanding contribution to the Scotch Whisky industry, which Philip came to achieve during his career with ARI, including his tenure at ARI’s joint venture with GMR Group, Delhi Duty Free Services.

A select few individuals are invited each year to become Keepers, and travel from around the world to accept their accolade.

The latest Keepers of the Quaich banquet was held at the historic Blair Castle in Perthshire, Scotland on the evening of Monday 3 October.

“I am hugely honoured to have been awarded this prestigious accolade,” said Eckles.

“Keepers of the Quaich are committed to championing the magnificent Scotch Whisky around the world, and it is a privilege to be a part of such an organisation steeped in history and tradition.

“I am particularly proud to have been awarded this accolade while serving in the duty free and travel retail industry, which I have enjoyed so much over the years. I would also like to extend my appreciation to Diageo for the nomination.”

Founded in 1988 by leading Scotch producers (including United Distillers, Allied Distillers, Justerini & Brooks Ltd., The Highland Distilleries Co., and Robertson & Baxter) there are currently over 2,800 Keepers of the Quaich worldwide, spanning over 100 countries.

Eckles spent over 30 years in travel retail before stepping down from his role as CEO of Delhi Duty Free Services in late 2020.

He first joined ARI in 1993 where, for the following 27 years, he travelled the world establishing duty free businesses.

Among the most notable achievements during Philip’s time with ARI included helping to run the Eurotunnel duty free business, overseeing ARI’s expansion to new territories in North America, and leading ARI’s Middle East business as ARIME CEO.

During his two-year tenure as CEO of Delhi Duty Free Services, Philip helped to accelerate the business’s growth before the Covid-19 pandemic hit in early 2020.