New global wine company Vinarchy has appointed Danny Celoni its Chief Executive Officer.
Celoni brings more than 25 years of FMCG and global branded beverage experience, having spent 18 years at Diageo across various executive roles throughout the Asia Pacific, and previously serving as CEO of PepsiCo Australia and New Zealand.
He was most recently CEO of Carlton and United Breweries (CUB), part of the Asahi Group, which produces some of the region’s most iconic and loved beverage brands.
Vinarchy was created in 2025 following the merger of Accolade Wines and Pernod Ricard Winemakers.
It is one of the world’s largest specialist wine companies, with more than AU$1.5 billion in annual net sales revenue.
The business is focused on wine, comprises a multitude of leading wine brands, operates across multiple countries with distribution around the world, and employs more than 1,600 people globally.
“I believe Vinarchy is well positioned to play a leading role in the future growth and expansion of the wine category,” says Celoni.
“Our rich heritage, combined with our established brands, capabilities, and unwavering commitment to customer and consumer centricity provides an exceptional platform for driving core category growth, differentiated innovation and value creation.”
Current Executive Chairman Ben Clarke will become Non-Executive Chairman concurrent with Danny Celoni commencing as CEO in August 2025.
Vinarchy has also appointed Kiri Hyde as General Manager, New Zealand, where she will lead the company’s direct route-to-market wine operations.
Hyde most recently served as Commercial Director at Pernod Ricard New Zealand and has previously held senior marketing roles with Kimberly-Clark and the Kraft Heinz Company.
“Kiri is a highly experienced drinks industry executive and brings a wealth of market knowledge, strong customer relationships, and an intimate understanding of the dynamic wine category,” says Andrew Clarke, Vinarchy ANZ Managing Director.
“Kiri will provide important continuity for our valued customers in New Zealand and leadership for our team here in the market.”
Hyde says she looks forward to being part of the new wine business.
“Partnering with our customers and driving the wine category forward, together is where our focus and passion will be,” she says.
“I look forward to ensuring a smooth transition for our customers and our team.”
From mid to late 2025, Vinarchy will take over distribution in New Zealand for the former Pernod Ricard Winemakers portfolio.
Until then, Pernod Ricard will continue distributing these brands, including Jacob’s Creek, Stoneleigh and Church Road under a transitional arrangement.
There is no change for customers of the former Accolade Wines portfolio, now part of Vinarchy, with brands such as Hardys, Mud House, Grant Burge and Jam Shed continuing to be distributed by Accolade Wines’ partner, Hancocks.
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