Building Bridges
Looking to expand your brand in South East Asia? I’ve got the strategies and partnerships to make it happen
Whether it’s expanding into new markets, transforming your supply chain, or bridging cultures, I combine data-driven insights with real-world experience to deliver impactful results. Together, we’ll turn your ambitions into reality, paving the way for your brand’s success
Kieren James
Business Development | Global Expansion Export Management | International Sales & Marketing Strategy
With over a decade of experience in the Alcobev industry, I’ve worked my way up from barback in high-end venues to managing some of the most prestigious bars and luxury hotels. From buzzing nightclubs to bougie cocktail bars, I’ve lived and breathed this world. I’ve led divisions of multinational distribution companies, launching award-winning premium brands, and crafting winning sales and marketing strategies. I’ve also spearheaded the international expansion of brands, collaborating closely with founders to bring their vision to life. I’ve earned my stripes in this industry, establishing essential practices to prepare your brand for success in Southeast Asia.
- 10 Unique Markets Explore a region with diverse consumer preferences across 10 major markets, including Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
- Expanding Middle Class A growing population of affluent consumers is ready to embrace unique, premium alcohol brands.
- Untapped Market Potential Less saturated than Western markets, Southeast Asia offers room to establish your brand before the competition heats up.
- Innovation Hub Known for embracing new trends, Southeast Asia is the perfect ground for experimenting with bold flavors and marketing tactics.
- Strategic GatewaySoutheast Asia’s central location makes it a perfect launchpad into other high-growth markets across Asia.
Global Expansion & Market Entry
Streamline your brand’s entry into new markets by setting up bonded stock hubs, managing export logistics, and conducting comprehensive price reviews
Strategic Sales & Partnership Development
I Forge enduring partnerships and design bespoke sales and marketing strategies that ignite business growth across South East Asia.
I’ve got a range of, consultancy, and management packages to suit all budgets.
Whether you want someone to do some, a bit or all of it I’ve got you covered.
Consultancy & Brand Management
From operational oversight to in-market representation, I offer flexible consultancy packages to suit all needs, ensuring seamless brand growth and visibility.
Marketing & Brand Building
I craft winning marketing strategies that resonate locally while staying true to your brand. From digital campaigns to on-the-ground activations, I help your brand thrive in new markets and build lasting loyalty.
While every brand and business I work with has unique goals and starting points, I apply a proven, adaptable approach that can be tailored to your needs. Whether you already have a presence in Southeast Asia or are just beginning your journey, these steps help us align and find the best path forward. There’s no one-size-fits-all model, but with best practices in place, we can set the foundation for success
Understanding & Alignment
I start by diving deep into your brand’s identity, goals, and ambitions. By aligning with your vision and understanding the deliverables of your business, I have my starting point for your bespoke go-to-market strategy
Market Research & Analysis
I conduct market research to identify target markets and assess demand for your products
I analyse market trends, identify your key competition, and share regulatory requirements for your category
Tailored Strategy Development
With a data-driven approach and cross-cultural insights, I design custom solutions that bridge the gap between your brand and its south East Asia audience. From pricing, market entry to distribution, every step is carefully curated to ensure success.
Execution & Growth
We take action, ensuring flawless execution and sustainable growth. By fostering strong partnerships and continuously adapting to market shifts, we help your brand not only launch but thrive across borders
Business Managment
Representation of your company in international markets to promote your products or services.
Establishing and nurturing relationships with all key steak holders potential customers, distributors, and partners.
Expansion
Success in Southeast and East Asia’s indicator markets significantly boosts your brand’s value and reputation. This enhanced status not only attracts more consumers but also draws in investors and partners, fueling a cycle of growth and expansion across new frontiers.
Re-Launch Bangkok
Launch Bangkok
Launch Bangkok
Launch Bangkok
Working with Kieren James has been an absolute pleasure! Kieren’s dedication, creativity, and professionalism shine through in every project we tackled together. Their extensive network, and ability to find solutions always impress me. Kieren is a fantastic communicator to boot, making sure things run smoothly. I can’t recommend Kieren enough!
Victoire Desvigne
Fever-Tree
General Manager
We enlisted Kieren’s services to establish our brand and manage our international business four years ago. In a highly competitive landscape, establishing a new brand is no easy feat, but Kieren delivered! The transformation from when we first entered the international market to now is remarkable, thanks to Kieren’s knack for making things happen, his extensive network, and his ability to forge and manage lasting partnerships. Our brand is thriving, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. Highly recommended!
Vidur Gupta
Thirdeye Distillery
Co-Founder
Working closely with Third Eye Distillery, we developed a comprehensive market entry strategy, streamlined their export processes, and built strong distributor partnerships. This resulted in a successful launch across multiple regions, securing their place in the global premium gin market.
By leveraging local insights and forging strong relationships with key on-trade accounts, we helped Fever-Tree expand its footprint in Asia’s competitive premium mixer market. Our approach boosted brand visibility and sales across top venues and retailers in the region.
Russian Standard needed a fresh start. We rebuilt the brand’s reputation by repairing relationships with local partners and wholesalers, restoring trust, and addressing challenges from previous partnerships. Our efforts culminated in a successful relaunch, re-establishing Russian Standard as a key player in the market.
Need Representation For Your Business in International Markets?
I get it because I’ve been there
To truly understand someone, you’ve got to walk in their shoes—I’ve burned through a few pairs. From managing beverage operations and connecting with end customers to leading a division of a multinational distributor, I’ve learned what brands need and what they don’t. Most recently, I’ve worked closely with founders to bring a brand to life in global markets, ensuring every detail aligns with success
Connect, Colaborate, Achieve
I don’t just solve problems; I create growth opportunities and achieve results. Clients come to me with route-to-market challenges or something that needs fixing, and we collaborate to find innovative solutions. In fast-paced environments, I excel by connecting brands to market leaders, building the infrastructure, and driving sustainable business growth.
- Explore how I can help grow your alcohol brand across Southeast Asia.
- Highlight the opportunities you could be capturing in this dynamic market.
- Answer any burning questions you have about expanding into Southeast Asia.
- Grab a virtual beer or coffee (we can keep it casual, or caffeinated, your call).