James France, founder of multi-award-winning premium spirits importer and distributor Vanguard Luxury Brands, has decided to leave the company he founded in 2008 and subsequently sold to Lion.
Mr France said: “After months of deep reflection and as I turn 60, I have come to the decision that it’s the right time for me to leave Vanguard. I have worked closely with the Vanguard and Lion teams to ensure a smooth transition. With this now complete, I am so happy to see that Vanguard is now standing strongly on its own two feet and ready to enter the next phase of its growth.”
He added: “Everyone at Lion has been incredibly supportive at every turn and I will always be grateful for this.”
“After months of deep reflection and as I turn 60, I have come to the decision that it’s the right time for me to leave Vanguard. I have worked closely with the Vanguard and Lion teams to ensure a smooth transition. With this now complete, I am so happy to see that Vanguard is now standing strongly on its own two feet and ready to enter the next phase of its growth.” – James France
Danny Connolly, Vanguard’s General Manager said: “James is fully supportive of the future direction of Vanguard and is confident that the business has a bright future. I know James will be a Vanguard advocate for life and look forward to him remaining a member of the extended Vanguard family. We all thank James for creating this wonderful company and for the fantastic contribution he has made to the Australian spirits industry.”
As for next steps, Mr France commented: “Firstly, I’ll take a few months off just to reset. Maybe even go to one of those places where you go vegan, do yoga and stop drinking. Actually, probably not. But I do know that I’d like to stay in the industry in some capacity because I don’t want to walk away from over 30 years of friendships, experience and fun. I’ll look at all options maybe even starting up that dog-friendly bar called Sit & Stay.”
About Vanguard Luxury Brands
Vanguard Luxury Brands is Australia’s leading importer, marketer and distributor of premium spirits. Based in Sydney, Vanguard Luxury Brands distributes across all states and territories of Australia, catering to the best bars, liquor stores, restaurants, and hotels. Vanguard Luxury Brands is very proud to have won Australia’s top award: the ALIA award for On-Premise Supplier Of The Year in 2018, 2015 and 2013 and 2022 as well as being Highly Commended for this award in 2014, 2016, 2017 and 2019