William Grant & Sons, the distiller behind Glenfiddich scotch, has agreed a deal with continental rival Remy Cointreau that will see the duo share distribution duties across a number of European markets.

The arrangement puts in place a new joint venture between the duo in France, with Remy Cointreau acquiring a 50% stake in William Grant’s French operation, Lixir.

William Grant UK subsidiary First Drinks Brands will now distribute Remy Cointreau drinks in the UK while Remy Cointreau will distribute William Grant products in Belgium and Luxembourg.

The deal adds to an existing relationship that sees William Grant distribute Remy Cointreau products in markets including Portugal.

“We are delighted to be working closer with Rémy Cointreau as there is a lot of synergy between the two companies, which have complementary portfolios of premium brands and shared distribution requirements in some markets,” said William Grant European MD Gordon Dron.

Rémy Cointreau European chief Spyros Ghikas added: “The combination of our respective brands will strengthen our distribution structures which focus on the high-end segment of the market and offer a unique opportunity to consolidate our growth in these markets.”