FDBusiness.com

Edrington Group increased turnover by 18.2% to £553.4m and profit before tax (excluding exceptional items) by 19.3% to £141.5m for the 12 months ended March 31st 2011 as the Scotch whisky distiller improved its route to market and expanded sales of all its main brands.

Edringrton’s The Famous Grouse blended Scotch whisky brand grew by 4% during the year, while The Macallan malt whisky brand grew by 14% to over 700,000 cases. Brugal consolidated its position as the number one rum in Spain and grew into other markets. The Cutty Sark brand added one million cases of sales to the group in its first full year of ownership since acquisition. Highland Park grew by 9%.

“The group continues to make good progress and we have further improved Edrington’s strategic position and business performance during 2010/11,” comments Ian Curle, chief executive of Edrington Group. “The strategic position of the Group was enhanced with the acquisition of the Cutty Sark brand and by taking ownership of the Maxxium distribution companies in China and Hong Kong. Our strong financial performance was supported by brand growth, increased earnings and improved cash flow.”