James France moves on from Vanguard Luxury Brands

James France, the founder of Australian premium spirits importer and distributor Vanguard Luxury Brands, has decided to leave the company he founded in 2008 and subsequently sold to Lion.

Based in Sydney, the company distributes across all states and territories of Australia, catering to bars, liquor stores, restaurants and hotels. Brands in its portfolio include Four Pillars Gin, Michter’s Whiskey, Fuji Whisky, Bearface Whisky, Morris Whisky and Gospel Whiskey.

France’s last official day at Vanguard will be May 11. He said: “After months of deep reflection and as I turn 60, I have come to the decision that it’s the right time for me to leave Vanguard.

“I have worked closely with the Vanguard and Lion teams to ensure a smooth transition.  With this now complete, I am so happy to see that Vanguard is now standing strongly on its own two feet and ready to enter the next phase of its growth.”