In a surprise move, R?my Cointreau yesterday served notice on Maxxium to terminate its distribution agreements with effect from March 30, 2009. The company said this would enable it to consider alternative distribution options in

R?my Cointreau?s priority markets. R?my said that the advance notice would provide ample time for the Maxxium partners to successfully manage the transition.
Maxxium has been a highly effective distribution vehicle for Beam Global, Edrington and V&S Group and has achieved strong growth of its shareholders' core brands internationally. These partners say that they remain fully committed to Maxxium and its long term success and will be working together to ensure a smooth transition of the business.
The remaining partners of Maxxium say they are confident that, as a result of the strengthening of Maxxium from the receipt of a compensation payment from Remy-Cointreau and through, in particular, new brand introductions, Maxxium will remain a strong and highly effective business moving forward.
Maxxium Worldwide is the premium spirits and fine wines distribution joint venture among R?my Cointreau, Beam Global Spirits & Wine, The Edrington Group and V&S Group. It was established in 1999 and expanded to include V&S Group in 2001, and operates in most major spirits markets outside the United States, South America, Africa and India.