Fortune Brands Inc. said Wednesday its Beam Global Spirits & Wine Inc. unit and Southern Wine & Spirits of America Inc. agreed to expand Southern Wine's exclusive distribution rights to Beam Global's portfolio.
Under the terms of the agreement, Southern Wine will distribute all of Beam Global's brands, such as Jim Beam bourbon, Hornitos tequila, Maker's Mark bourbon, in 21 total markets, with the new additions of Arizona and Kentucky.
"Our expanded distribution agreement helps us gain efficiencies by having a uniform sales and distribution model in 21 states and strategically aligning both companies' business priorities," said Bill Newlands, president of Beam Global's U.S. business.
The agreement is effective in Arizona on March 1 and in Kentucky April 1.
Fortune Brands makes wine and spirits, home and hardware products, as well as golf equipment.
Shares of Fortune Brands rose $1.10, or 2.9 percent, to $38.81 in afternoon trading.