Ellers Farm Distillery has secured a major investment and partnership with comedian Ricky Gervais. The deal will see him become co-owner of the York-based firm and initially focuses on the company’s leading brand, Dutch Barn Orchard Vodka, but also covers its gins, liqueurs, and English single malt whisky.
Best known as the creator and star of the hit sitcom The Office, Gervais will lead the distiller’s global brand awareness and marketing efforts.
He said: “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.
“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.”
Gervais took to the internet to announce his new position.
Ellers Farm was formed in 2021 and Gervais’ investment follows on from the company becoming a Certified B-Corp in September of this year. As an ethical employer, Ellers Farm has a profit share scheme where 20% of the company’s profits go to the employees.
Chris Fraser, founder and chairman of Ellers Farm Distillery, said: “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.
“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.”
