Elephant Gin, the Berlin-based gin brand renowned for its commitment to African elephant conservation, has found a new investor in Carl-Lambert Leisewitz, owner of Laux Deli. This crucial financial backing comes just three months after the company filed for insolvency, marking a significant turning point for the brand.
Financial Turmoil and Recovery
In March 2024, Elephant Gin filed for insolvency in the German courts following the failure of its then-owner, Compagnia dei Caraibi, to finance the agreed business plan. Compagnia dei Caraibi had acquired the brand at the end of 2022 but was unable to meet its financial commitments, leading to the insolvency filing and subsequent loss of the brand. During this period, an M&A advisor successfully facilitated the acquisition by Leisewitz, securing the brand's future.
“We are excited that the future of Elephant Gin is now secured,” said co-founder Robin Gerlach. “We would like to thank our team primarily for their loyal support. Our foremost focus is now on the distribution of our products with our loyal partners both domestically and abroad.”
The New Investor
Carl-Lambert Leisewitz, with over 20 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, brings a wealth of expertise to Elephant Gin. He owns Laux Deli, a German delicatessen and spirits production company known for its bottled cocktails, spirits, and gourmet products. Leisewitz’s capital investment in Elephant Gin has not only secured the brand’s future but also promises to uphold its mission and values.
“We are pleased that the future of Elephant Gin has been clarified and that we can get back on track,” Gerlach added. “First and foremost, we would like to thank our team for their tireless and loyal support.”
Continued Commitment to Conservation
Elephant Gin was founded in 2013 by Tessa and Robin Gerlach with a strong commitment to elephant conservation. The brand donates 15% of its profits to African elephant charities and conservation projects, having raised over €1 million through sales and fundraising events. This commitment to conservation remains unwavering despite the recent financial challenges.
Tessa Gerlach emphasized, “While we see enormous potential for an organized restart, we are also committed to bringing our elephant conservation efforts back to the forefront.”
Stability and Future Growth
Despite the change in shareholder structure, Elephant Gin assures that its management and the majority of its 22-member team will remain intact. The company will continue to operate independently, maintaining its existing branding and distribution strategies. Elephant Gin’s range, which includes Elephant London Dry Gin, Elephant Sloe Gin, and Elephant Orange Cocoa Gin, is exported to over 40 markets, including the UK, Italy, Spain, Benelux, and the US.
The brand’s flagship product, the Elephant London Dry Gin, is particularly popular among gin enthusiasts and mixologists, further solidifying its position in the market.
Moving Forward
With Leisewitz’s backing, Elephant Gin is poised to capitalize on the growth in the premium spirits category. The new investment not only stabilizes the brand but also sets the stage for future growth and continued contributions to elephant conservation.
“Thanks also go to the administrator, who saw the misalignment of the shareholder structure and at the same time an enormous potential for an orderly new start,” Tessa Gerlach added. “In return, we see the green light again for our commitment to supporting elephants in Africa.”
As Elephant Gin navigates this new chapter, its commitment to quality and conservation remains unwavering, ensuring that the brand will continue to thrive and make a positive impact in the spirits industry and beyond.
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