Erceg lieutenant leaves Independent

Independent Distillers - the company founded by Michael Erceg - has lost Roger Smith, the executive who had been running the business since Erceg's death last year.

Smith's departure may be evidence the company is being readied for a sale to a corporate liquor company.

Australian brewer Lion Nathan has been one of many companies said to be interested in Independent's sub-premium beer and pre-mixed cocktail business. Independent has about 65 per cent market share of the country's ready-to-drink market and 8 per cent of beer market.

Full Story - NZ Herald