The highly respected Philip Eckles, former CEO at Delhi Duty Free Services and a long-time senior executive at Aer Rianta International, has been named as Keeper of the Quaich. He joins one of the drinks industry’s most prestigious societies following a nomination by Diageo.
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 the historic Blair Castle in Perthshire, Scotland on 3 October.
Founded in 1988 by leading Scotch producers, including United Distillers, Allied Distillers, Justerini & Brooks Ltd., The Highland Distilleries Co., and Robertson & Baxter, there are currently over 2,800 Keepers of the Quaich worldwide, spanning over 100 countries.
Eckles spent over 30 years in travel retail before stepping down from his role as CEO of Delhi Duty Free Services in late 2020. He first joined ARI in 1993, after which he travelled the world establishing and managing duty free businesses. Among his most notable achievements 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 regional CEO.
During his two-year tenure as CEO of Delhi Duty Free Services (ARI’s joint venture with GMR Group), he helped to accelerate the business’s growth before the Covid-19 pandemic hit in early 2020.
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 organisation 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.”
