**Hollywood Icon Will Smith Receives Exclusive Gift from Swansea’s Au Vodka**
In a striking symbol of global recognition, Hollywood star Will Smith was recently handed two limited-edition golden cases of Au Vodka’s newest offering by the Swansea-grown drinks brand. The celebrated actor, best known for his roles in *Men in Black* and *The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air*, was praised for being the first individual in the world to sample the company’s forthcoming juicy peach flavoured mixer cans.
The momentous encounter was orchestrated by DJ Charlie Sloth, a director at Au Vodka, who personally delivered the distinctive gold briefcases to Smith. Footage of the meeting captures Sloth explaining the exclusivity of the gift, stating: “You’re literally the first person in the world to have them.” Smith, impressed by the gesture, replied enthusiastically, “Wow. That’s beautiful. Good looking out.” He proceeded to open one of the cans, sampled the contents, and declared his approval, embracing Sloth in thanks and describing the taste as “very good.”
According to representatives at Au Vodka, the occasion marked a “crazy moment” in the company’s ongoing international expansion. The company’s representatives noted that such publicity signals how far the Swansea-founded brand has travelled since its inception and illustrates the growing visibility of Welsh entrepreneurship on the global stage.
Founded by close friends Charlie Morgan, 29, and Jackson Quinn, 31, Au Vodka was established in 2016 with humble beginnings. The company initially produced just 2,000 bottles, but it has since experienced remarkable growth. Today, the brand is easily recognised by its signature gold bottle and is distributing more than 1.6 million bottles worldwide, a testament to its surging popularity and the team’s ambition.
Earlier in 2025, the company celebrated another milestone by relocating to a state-of-the-art £3 million headquarters in Llansamlet. The brand’s expansion is attributed not only to a unique product but also to a relentless commitment to innovation, with a stream of eye-catching flavours and bold marketing moves such as the collaboration with international superstars.
Will Smith’s surprise meeting with the Welsh vodka entrepreneurs comes at a busy time for the Oscar-winning actor. This summer, Smith is set to return to the UK stage, headlining Cardiff’s Live at Bute Park as part of his ‘Based on a True Story’ tour. Scheduled for 25 August, the event promises to feature tracks from his first full-length album in two decades, alongside a string of classic hits. Joining him on stage will be renowned guests, including Nile Rodgers & CHIC, ensuring the concert’s appeal for both long-time fans and new listeners.
The collaboration between Smith and Au Vodka demonstrates the increasing synergy between prominent figures in entertainment and aspirational British brands. Such partnerships not only boost product profiles but also cast a spotlight on local success stories. Au Vodka’s journey, from its Welsh origin to Hollywood endorsement, stands as a significant achievement for regional businesses aiming for global audiences.
For Will Smith, the experience appears to have been a positive one, as evidenced by his candid enjoyment of the new flavour. For Au Vodka, the connection heralds even greater ambitions. Whether this will be the first of many such partnerships remains to be seen, but the brand’s story is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about in both the drinks industry and Welsh enterprise as a whole.
As the UK gears up to welcome Smith in Cardiff and Au Vodka continues its expansion, both stories reflect a spirit of innovation, resilience, and international aspiration that’s increasingly characteristic of modern Wales.