Philip Eckles named new Keeper of the Quaich
Philip Eckles
Philip Eckles, former CEO at Delhi Duty Free Services and ARI executive has been invited to join one of the drinks industry’s most prestigious societies as a new "Keeper of the Quaich."
People with an outstanding contribution to the Scotch Whisky industry are asked to join this group, which Eckles came to achieve during his career with ARI, including his tenure at ARI’s joint venture with GMR Group, Delhi Duty Free Services, according to the Keeper of the Quaich press release.
"Only a select few are invited each year to become Keepers, and travel from all corners of the world to accept their accolade. The latest Keepers of the Quaich banquet was held at the historic Blair Castle in Perthshire, Scotland on the evening of Monday October [3]," it continues. "Founded in 1988 by the leading Scotch producers, including United Distillers, Allied Distillers, Justerini & Brooks Ltd., The Highland Distilleries Co., and Robertson & Baxter, there are currently more than 2,800 Keepers of the Quaich worldwide, spanning 100 countries."
Eckles spent more than 30 pioneering years in Travel Retail before stepping down from his role as CEO of Delhi Duty Free Services in late 2020. Eckles joined ARI in 1993, where for the following 27 years he traveled the world establishing duty free businesses. Among the most notable achievements during Eckles' time with ARI included helping to run the Eurotunnel duty free business, overseeing ARI’s expansion to new territories in North America, and leading ARI’s Middle East business as ARIME CEO. During his two-year tenure as CEO of Delhi Duty Free Services, Eckles helped to accelerate the business’s growth before the COVID-19 pandemic hit in early 2020.
Commenting on being appointed as a Keeper of the Quaich, Eckles said, "I am hugely honoured to have been awarded this prestigious accolade. Keepers of the Quaich are committed to championing the magnificent Scotch Whisky around the world, and it is a privilege to be a part of such an organization steeped in history and tradition. I am particularly proud to have been awarded this accolade while serving in the Duty Free and Travel Retail industry, which I have enjoyed so much over the years. I would also like to extend my appreciation to Diageo for the nomination."
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