International Brands, the Scotland and U.S.-based liquor distributor, has recruited Fort Franklin to help manage its products in the United States. Specifically, the assignment includes positioning and branding work in support of its family of heritage scotch brands. The agency was chosen without a formal review, and spending was not released.

Hard Rock International has selected Duncan/Channon of San Rafael, Calif. as its agency of record. The agency will update Hard Rock's identity, create a TV branding campaign and develop retail TV, print, and collateral for its network of cafes, hotels, and casinos. The budget for 2005 is $15 million.