INDIA. Delhi Duty Free Services CEO Ashish Chopra has been named as Keeper of the Quaich, joining one of the drinks industry’s most prestigious societies. It follows his nomination by Pernod Ricard.
The honour is bestowed upon those who have made an outstanding contribution to the Scotch whisky industry and only a few individuals are invited each year to become Keepers. The latest Keepers of the Quaich banquet was held at Blair Castle in Perthshire, Scotland on 3 April.
The historic Keepers of the Quaich was founded in 1988 by leading Scotch producers including United Distillers, Allied Distillers, Justerini & Brooks Ltd., The Highland Distilleries Co., and Robertson & Baxter. Currently there are almost 3,000 Keepers of the Quaich worldwide, spanning over 100 countries.
Chopra joined Delhi Duty Free Services in 2013 as Head of Buying and held numerous senior roles prior to succeeding Philip Eckles – also recently appointed Keeper of the Quaich – as CEO in late 2020.
Chopra has played a key role in the success of Delhi Duty Free, navigating the business through the pandemic and helping return the operation to strong growth, including reaching its highest-ever monthly sales in December 2022. Delhi Duty Free closed its financial year 2022-23 (to 31 March) with its highest yearly sales ever.
“I am hugely honoured, both professionally and personally, to join such a prestigious and highly regarded society,” Chopra said.
“Sincere gratitude to our Chairman and Board of Directors for their continued support. I also kindly thank our partners at Pernod Ricard for nominating me, and to Keepers of the Quaich for welcoming me.
“I am very proud of what we have achieved at Delhi Duty Free Services as a team, and the contribution my team and I have been able to make, in championing the Scotch Whisky industry to passengers from across the world.” 
