Latest news with #RyanHughes
Forbes
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Why Ketel One Has Placed Such A Big Bet On The Martini
Ketel One has placed a big bet on marketing activations around the martini, including an event held ... More at The Polo Bar restaurant last year in New York City. Ketel One's big bet on the martini isn't just for National Martini Day on June 19. The Dutch vodka brand says it's all-in on the martini all year round. 'When that glass comes out, everyone thinks differently; there's an expectation that that person has a little bit more knowledge when it comes to cocktails,' Ryan Hughes, brand director at Ketel One, tells me during a virtual interview. 'That triangular-shaped glass has the opportunity to evoke a lot of emotions.' Over the past year, Ketel One's martini-focused campaigns have included a holiday campaign with actor Patrick Schwarzenegger and a second campaign with the White Lotus star that highlighted a vesper martini that blends Ketel One with Tanqueray gin and took inspiration from the hit HBO TV show. Most recently, Ketel One is offering a sweepstakes giveaway for three Dorsia memberships, partnering with the members-only platform that raised $50.4 million in seed and Series A funding earlier this year and helps members get tables at the restaurant hot spots that are the most difficult to book. Other recent activations have included influencer and media events at New York City restaurants The Polo Bar and Dante, as well as an espresso martini machine that can make cocktails in around 20 seconds for bars and restaurants. The consumers that Ketel One says it is targeting with these marketing campaigns are cocktail enthusiasts who tend to be older, more likely to live in a city and come from a higher income household. 'You need someone who's going to want to get away from a vodka soda and say, 'You know what, it's time for me to have a martini,'' says Hughes. Ketel One's martini marketing is also a nod to the brand's heritage. Ketel One was founded in 1983 by Carel Nolet Sr., part of a Holland family that has been distilling alcohol since 1691 and still retains 50% ownership of the brand after selling the other half to liquor giant Diageo for $900 million in 2008. His sons, Bob and Carl Nolet Jr., remain actively involved in managing the business. NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 19: Patrick Schwarzenegger attends Ketel One Family Made Vodka ... More Celebrates Patrick Schwarzenegger As Its First-Ever Spirit Advisor at Times Square EDITION Hotel on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo byfor Ketel One Family Made Vodka) Hughes credits Nolet Sr. for the brand's strong association with the martini. When he came to the U.S., he felt that no vodka he tried was able to shine in any of the cocktails he tried. 'And so when they created that vodka, it was always about creating unforgettable cocktail experiences,' says Hughes. Rival vodka brands have increasingly been placing bets on the martini, which is a popular drink order at the bar, ranging from the espresso martini to even mini variations. Many have the campaigns have starred celebrities, including a spot that debuted just last week from Grey Goose featuring Oscar-winning actress Zoe Zoe Saldaña, Tito's Handmade Vodka spot with TV personality and entrepreneur Martha Stewart around Dry January and last year's campaign by Pernod Ricard's Absolut vodka with 'Espresso' singer Sabrina Carpenter. 'We've created a leadership gap and everyone is noticing that,' says Hughes. 'They're now nipping at our heels.' Efforts to reinforce Ketel One's legacy association with the martini have paid off, according to the brand, which claims it has reached its highest level of U.S. household penetration in the last five years, citing data from market researcher Numerator. Ketel One also claims to have gained vodka market share for 105 consecutive weeks through May 24, citing data analysis from Nielsen and the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association. Hughes says the martini's versatility can also help lure in new drinkers, those that may prefer the citrus that comes from a lemon drop or coffee in an espresso martini. Other drinks that Ketel One have recently promoted include a peppermint espresso martini and a White Lotus inspired Thai chili espresso martini. He says there's further experimentation around botanicals, cucumbers and other unique flavors that Ketel One keeps a close eye on. 'Vodka is so versatile,' says Hughes. 'It has this blank canvas for people to be able to play with.'
Time Out
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
American Psycho's uber-exclusive Dorsia restaurant is popping up IRL in New York City
Move over, Via Carota. There's a new impossible table in town. For tonight only, the fictional white whale of the Manhattan dining scene, Dorsia—yes, that Dorsia—is coming to life in New York City, thanks to a partnership between Ketel One Family Made Vodka and hospitality-tech phenom Dorsia. And no, Paul Allen is not invited. A nod to the cult classic American Psycho, the IRL Dorsia pop-up will reimagine the iconic, never-quite-reachable restaurant as an immersive cocktail experience, where martinis come with a side of status—and a solid gold aesthetic. Hosted at one of the city's top restaurants (location: naturally undisclosed until you're on the list), the night promises 1980s excess with modern martini flair. Expect signature drinks like the "First Name Basis" (a dirty martini with blue cheese olives) and the "Power Suit," a savory, umami-laced concoction with tomato-infused Ketel One and horseradish. Yes, even the cocktails are dressed for success. In true Wall Street-era fashion, exclusivity is the main course. Beyond the velvet rope, guests will find a Ketel One martini tower, a cocktail-pick engraving station for personalized swag, '80s-inspired props (think vintage brick phones, Walkmans and briefcases) and retro Polaroids for that just-came-from-McCoy's photo shoot. Custom coasters, matchbooks and restaurant-style takeaways only add to the dinner party-meets-culture-club vibe. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ketel One Vodka United States (@ketelone_us) Even if you're not on the guest list, you can still get a taste: Ketel One is giving away three coveted Dorsia Premium Memberships, which offer access to the world's toughest reservations and cultural events, to fans who comment 'IYKYK' on @KetelOne_US's Instagram post and tag a drinking buddy. And for those already dining at top-tier NYC restaurants, the 'Drinks on Dorsia' program unlocks signature Ketel One cocktails at participating venues, bookable via the Dorsia app. 'This collaboration will transform the Dorsia fantasy into a tangible experience,' said Ryan Hughes, the brand director for Ketel One Vodka, 'and offer culture and dining enthusiasts a taste of next-level hospitality centered around the art of a perfectly crafted cocktail.'
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Ketel One Family Made Vodka Partners with Dorsia to Unlock Access & Celebrate their Vision of the Fictional Dorsia for One Night Only
Partnership to also offer insider perks, from coveted premium membership giveaways to martini experiences at NYC's top restaurants, for those in the know - If You Know, You Ketel NEW YORK, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ketel One Family Made Vodka is teaming up with Dorsia, the global leader in the hospitality and tech space, best known for allowing its members access to the world's hardest to get restaurant reservations and most sought-after cultural experiences, to bring the legendary allure of the fictional Dorsia to life for one night only. For one unforgettable night on June 3, Ketel One Vodka will unite tastemakers who are truly in the know; those who recognize a defining cultural moment, live deep within dining and entertainment, and instinctively reach for a Ketel One Vodka martini to celebrate it. In partnership with Dorsia, Ketel One Vodka will reimagine the famously elusive restaurant from pop culture lore, transforming one of New York's most sought-after dining destinations into a cocktail-centric experience. This exclusive evening taps into today's cultural obsession for rare reservations and iconic entertainment moments, offering an immersive ode to those who expect more from a night out and know that every elevated evening begins with a Ketel One martini. IYKYKetel. Beyond the exclusive Dorsia door, Ketel One Vodka is also making other sought-after reservations easier to access through a highly coveted giveaway to three lucky winners, who will each receive a Dorsia Premium Membership, unlocking VIP reservations to world-class restaurants and cultural events. To enter, consumers must follow @KetelOne_US on Instagram, comment "IYKYK" #KetelOneSweepstakes on the giveaway post and tag a friend to have a cocktail with. Applicants must be 21+ to enter, subject to Official Rules. "At Ketel One, we believe in creating extraordinary moments that elevate the everyday and go beyond expectations," said Ryan Hughes, Brand Director, Ketel One Vodka. "This collaboration will transform the Dorsia fantasy into a tangible experience and beyond that, offer culture and dining enthusiasts a taste of next-level hospitality centered around the art of a perfectly crafted cocktail." To take the partnership to the next level, Ketel One Vodka is debuting the "Drinks on Dorsia" cocktail program at a curated selection of New York City's top restaurants, bookable on the Dorsia app. Members dining at participating venues can unlock a signature Ketel One cocktail; adding a touch of martini magic to their meal and turning an already desirable reservation into an unforgettable night out. For more information, please visit or follow along on Instagram @KetelOne_US. About Ketel One Family Made VodkaKetel One Family Made Vodka is inspired by 330 years and 11 generations of the Nolet Family's distilling expertise. Ketel One is crafted using only the highest-quality ingredients, including 100% non-GMO grain and is gluten-free. That quality has led to global recognition with Drinks International as the number one trending vodka in the world's best bars, a top ten bartenders' choice of vodka, and one of the best-selling vodkas in the world's best bars (Drinks International Brands Report, 2022). Inspired by the passionate pursuit of excellence in their craft, Ketel One continues to toast to the artists, trailblazers and innovators in the entertainment industry. Follow Ketel One Family Made Vodka on Instagram for additional inspiration and information: @KetelOne_US. About Diageo North AmericaDiageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, Bulleit and Buchanan's whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Casamigos, DeLeon and Don Julio tequilas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Tanqueray and Guinness. Diageo is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE: DGE) and their products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information about Diageo, their people, brands, and performance visit Visit Diageo's global responsible drinking resource, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practices. Follow on Twitter and Instagram for news and information about Diageo North America: @Diageo_NA. About DorsiaDorsia, the global leader in the hospitality and tech space, is best known for allowing its members access to the world's hardest to get restaurant reservations and most sought-after cultural experiences. Dorsia was founded by CEO Marc Lotenberg, a seasoned entrepreneur and media executive renowned for leading innovative ventures in lifestyle, art and design. In an age where spontaneity and access are the ultimate luxuries, Dorsia members can touch down in any destination, from global hubs to seasonal hot spots, and immediately unlock the best dining, daylife, nightlife, and culture. Dorsia's mission is to transform the economy and experience of hospitality and events through its patented frictionless payments technology. // Follow on social @dorsia Media Contacts:Diageo NASydney Bullfrog + BaumElena DabbyKetelOneVodkaPR@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Ketel One Family Made Vodka
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
AJ Bell taps Amundi Technology to streamline portfolio management
UK-based investment platform AJ Bell has selected ALTO Investment platform from Amundi Technology to improve its portfolio management capabilities and support its growth objectives. AJ Bell Investments, which provides wealth management solutions catering to the requirements of retail investors and high-net-worth individuals and institutional clients, needed a system that supports its growth plans as its assets under management (AUM). As per AJ Bell's last trading update, its AUM reached £7.5bn. AJ Bell Investments managing director Ryan Hughes said: 'We are delighted to partner with Amundi Technology as we continue to grow our business. 'The technology platform provided by Amundi will significantly improve our operational efficiency and facilitate our future growth as we look to capitalise on the continued demand for our simple, transparent and low cost investment solutions.' The integration of Amundi Technology's portfolio management system is expected to streamline AJ Bell's existing operations and address several operational challenges. Key advantages of this collaboration include the transition from manual processes to an automated system, which is anticipated to boost operational efficiency. Additionally, the new solution will offer scalability, allowing AJ Bell to adapt its operations in line with client demands as it continues to grow. Furthermore, the unified operating model provided by Amundi Technology combines technology, data management, and dealing services, facilitating a more streamlined approach to portfolio management. Amundi Technology CEO Benjamin Lucas said: 'We are thrilled to welcome AJ Bell, a longstanding client of Amundi, on our technology platform. 'Our technology solutions are designed to empower asset managers to achieve their goals efficiently and effectively. This new development of our partnership showcases our commitment to providing solutions across the entire value chain and reinforces our position as a leading provider of asset management technology services.' In November 2024, Amundi acquired German software provider Aixigo for €149m ($157m). Aixigo, with 150 employees, serves more than 20 clients, including major financial institutions managing over €1tn ($1.3tn) in assets. "AJ Bell taps Amundi Technology to streamline portfolio management" was originally created and published by Private Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
