Absolut owner Pernod Ricard has made updates to its US distribution network and moved away from Republic National Distribution Company (RNDC).

The changes will see Reyes Beverage Group take over RNDC’s distribution of Pernod’s mainline and ready-to-drink (RTD) portfolio in Maryland and Washington DC once a deal between the distributors is finalised.

In addition, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits will take over distribution of Pernod Ricard USA’s mainline and RTD portfolio in Texas and Oklahoma, and the mainline brands in Louisiana.

The move increases Southern Glazer’s distribution tally of Pernod Ricard’s US portfolio to 37 states.

“We are proud of our long-standing partnership with Pernod Ricard and look forward to building on the strong foundation our teams have established together over many years,” said Wayne E Chaplin, president and chief executive officer of Southern Glazer’s.

“By combining Pernod Ricard’s iconic portfolio with Southern Glazer’s proven commercial excellence, we are well positioned to drive continued growth and deliver exceptional value for our customers.”

The American Liberty Division, which is Southern Glazer’s dedicated arm for Pernod Ricard’s USA portfolio, will support the extended distribution agreement.

Meanwhile, family-owned Johnson Brothers will take over the distribution of Pernod Ricard USA’s mainline and RTD portfolio in the Dakota and Nebraska, and the mainline portfolio in Indiana.

Johnson Brothers already represents Pernod Ricard’s Gem portfolio across 11 states: in Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia.

The Gem (growth and emerging market) division accounts for Pernod Ricard’s next generation of ‘high-potential brands’, which includes Rabbit Hole, Irish whiskeys Spot, Powers, and Method and Madness, Plymouth Gin, Aberlour, Scapa, Avion, and Malfy.