There was some commentary about Seales' presence at Total Wine. Richard wanted to make the following public...
My apolgies Richard for managing to miss your communication. I know that I am not alone in recognizing the amazing values all of your rums represent, especially in light of lesser rums that sell for significantly more. As for me, I am never without all of your Total offerings."Capn Jimbo,
I have been seeing comments on Total Wine and I want to share some information.
We have a fantastic relationship with Total Wine. They pay our full export price without complaint or pressure. Our agreement with them is a gentlemen's agreement and there is no written contract. They are are family owned and the owner has visited with us at Foursquare. They are very nice people.
They have created a unique direct import model which saves huge costs on the importer and distributor. Moreover, they import in 40' containers and ship in bulk to the stores giving a little producer like us the cost efficiency of a big player.
We started this relationship because we could not find a suitable import partner to work with and felt it important while searching for the right partner we have a presence in the US with our rums. As they have grown stronger we have had better sales and continue to be more than happy with them.
To the consumer, they offer incredible value. Importer margins are very high because they carry the costs of supporting brands across the US. We avoid the importer and have a very narrow but very effective channel.
The direct import model for which I believe we are the only spirit that has it with Total Wine means our rums are available there at incredible value. Near ex distillery prices. You cant beat the value. They developed this model with wines.
Richard"
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