Ricky Gervais has become the latest celebrity to invest in the drinks business – following the likes of Ryan Reynolds and Gary Barlow.
The comedian has become a co-owner of North Yorkshire spirits producer, Ellers Farm Distillery, which makes Dutch Barn Orchard Vodka.
Gervais said that it was the B-Corp certified business’s eco credentials that attracted him.
“I’d been looking to invest in eco-friendly businesses for a while and as soon as I found Dutch Barn – I wanted in. I love the planet and I love a drink so it was the perfect combination,” he explained.
“On a serious note Dutch Barn really is a quality product. I love the fact that it’s done differently and I can’t wait to let everyone know about it.
“The exciting part for me is that I’ve been promised that I can try to make it a global brand in my own way. Something I can’t help but think they will regret.”
AIG Holdings, a global talent brand incubator has also invested in the York-based company, although no exact details of either investment have been published.
“We are so excited to have Ricky join the team. With so many hollow celebrity cash-for-face brand endorsement deals out there, we are really pleased to have forged an authentic partnership with Ricky involving both investment and creative leadership,” added Chris Fraser, founder and chairman of Ellers Farm Distillery.
“Ricky will be an integral part of the business going forward and will help shape how Dutch Barn is seen around the world and helping us make Dutch Barn a global success.”
