Ukiyo Blossom Gin, Ukiyo Tokyo Dry Gin and Ukiyo Yuzu Gin will be available.

Kirker Greer Spirits has strengthened its global travel retail presence through a new partnership with Gebr. Heinemann, accelerating the international rollout of its Ukiyo Japanese Gin range.

Under the agreement, Ukiyo Blossom Gin, Ukiyo Tokyo Dry Gin and Ukiyo Yuzu Gin will be available through Gebr. Heinemann’s airport retail and distribution network from April, marking a key step in Kirker Greer’s three-year growth strategy for the channel.

The partnership provides the brand with access to one of the world’s largest travel retail networks, significantly expanding its global footprint and positioning Ukiyo alongside established premium spirits brands.

The listing also introduces a differentiated Japanese craft gin proposition into a category traditionally dominated by whisky and vodka. Ukiyo’s distinctive profile – built on a rice spirit base combined with traditional botanicals and Japanese flavour influences – has supported strong multi-channel growth, even as the wider gin category faces headwinds.

Ryan McFarland, Chief Commercial & Strategy Officer at Drinksology Kirker Greer, said: “Partnering with Gebr. Heinemann is a major milestone in our global travel retail journey. At our core, we’re committed to working with best-in-class partners who don’t just move boxes, but truly understand how to engage consumers through retail theatre and category-defining excitement.

As Ukiyo continues its growth trajectory, launching our full gin range with Heinemann further cements the brand’s presence at the heart of the European travel retail channel. It also proves that there is appetite for innovative, independent brands to challenge the status quo on the world’s most prestigious shelves.”

Designed with experiential retail in mind, the Ukiyo portfolio supports activation through pop-ups, tasting bars and seasonal showcases aimed at increasing dwell time and driving conversion.

Manuel Schilling, Head of Buying Spirits at Gebr. Heinemann, added: “By listing Ukiyo Japanese Gins, we have the opportunity to lead the premium Japanese gin segment in travel retail. The brand combines authentic provenance, striking design, and activation-ready appeal, making it highly relevant for discerning international travellers seeking premium gifting and contemporary flavour experiences.”

With Japanese spirits continuing to gain global momentum, the partnership highlights the growing importance of the segment in travel retail, while reinforcing Kirker Greer Spirits’ broader ambition to expand international distribution and visibility across its premium portfolio.

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