OREANDA-NEWS. January 18, 2012. Central European Distribution Corporation (NASDAQ:CEDC), one of the leading vodka producers in the world and the leading spirit distributor in Russia announced that it has signed an exclusive distribution agreement with La Martiniquaise Group. CEDC will be responsible for the distribution in Russia of Label 5 whisky, one of the 10 best selling Scotch whiskies in the world.

William Carey, President and CEO of CEDC commented, “We are pleased to add to our premium import portfolio such a recognized Scotch whisky brand. Through the joint efforts of CEDC’s strong sales team and La Martiniquaise Group, we have an opportunity to develop Label 5 into one of the best selling whiskies in Russia. The partnership also demonstrates CEDC’s intent to participate in the potential growth of the whisky market in Russia, which is a key direction for our import business”.

According to Nielsen data, the Russian whisky market grew in 2011 by estimated 18.1% in terms of value, to RUR 9.37 million*.

*Nielsen, retail audit, November 2010-December 2011, 16 Russian cities.

CEDC is one of the largest producers of vodka in the world and Central and Eastern Europe's largest integrated spirit beverage business. CEDC produces the Green Mark, Absolwent, Zubrowka, Bols, Parliament, Zhuravli, Royal and Soplica brands, among others. CEDC currently exports its products to many markets around the world, including the United States, England, France and Japan.

CEDC also is a leading importer of alcoholic beverages in Poland, Russia and Hungary. In Poland, CEDC imports many of the world's leading brands, including Carlo Rossi Wines, Concha y Toro wines, Metaxa Liqueur, Remy Martin Cognac, Sutter Home wines, Grant's Whisky, Jagermeister, E&J Gallo, Jim Beam Bourbon, Sierra Tequila, Teacher's Whisky, Campari, Cinzano and Old Smuggler. CEDC is also a leading importer of premium spirits and wines in Russia with such brands as Concha y Toro, among others.