Establishing a brand internationally doesn’t happen overnight—it’s a step by step process

In Latin, scala means 'stairway'—a symbol of the upward, step by step journey every brand must take to succeed globally.

Brand owners and Distributors usually face these two major concerns:

Problem One

The Brand Owner Challenge

Launching a brand internationally may seem straightforward, but in reality, it’s a complex and time-consuming process. It often takes six months—or even more than a year—before the first purchase order is received. And once that milestone is reached, the most challenging yet rewarding part begins: building the brand.

Let’s face it—securing a first order is achievable, but developing a brand implies:

  • A skilled and experienced team

  • Strategic investment

  • Deep knowledge of local markets

  • Long-term consistency to build traction

Yet even then, success is never assured.

At Scala Brands, we take care of this journey.

Leveraging long-standing expertise in the spirits and RTD industry, we offer established know-how in setting the stage for successful brand launches. Our extensive network of vetted distributors across Greater Europe and South America, along with a proven track record in brand management and long-term development, makes us a reliable partner for international growth.

Problem Two

The Distributor Dilemma

Building the right, balanced portfolio for a market is one of the most difficult tasks a distributor faces.

In some cases, the dilemma lies between the FOMO (fear of missing out) of not covering trending categories and the risk of spreading too thin and losing focus. In others, distribution companies become overly reliant on a single category or channel, limiting their overall offering. The potential concerns?

  • Lack of focus, per brand and category

  • Poor balance lowers volume and profit

  • Excess stock strains warehouse space

  • Too many SKUs increase complexity and cost

Scala Brands can help you navigate this portfolio dilemma.

With over 20 years of experience managing directly more than 50 distributors across multiple spirits / RTD categories and markets throughout Europe and the Americas—and having led multiple post-M&A portfolio integrations—we bring both a brand owner’s mindset and a streamlined, strategic approach to portfolio management.

We offer four types of services for Brand Owners and Distributors.

Go To Market

Detailed plan to launch the brand in new markets

Route To Market

Identification and selection of business partners in each market

In-Market Brand Management

Day-to-day brand and distributor management to make sure goals are accomplished

Distributor’s Portfolio Optimization

Category interrogation to maximise the distributor’s portfolio

With over 25 years of experience in FMCG—particularly within the spirits industry across Europe and the Americas—we bring deep expertise in brand development, sharp insight into brand portfolio analysis, a robust network of international distributors, and unique know-how in managing the crucial relationship between brand owners and local partners.