Edrington to Invest £100 Million in New Distillery
Scottish spirits group Edrington has announced plans for an iconic new Speyside distillery and visitor centre for The Macallan, the world’s most prestigious Scotch malt whisky. The company will work with the world-renowned architects Rogers Stirk Harbour+ Partners to build the new distillery and visitor centre.
Edrington plans to invest over £100 million in The Macallan estate to sustain the craftsmanship, attention to detail, and innovation that have become the hallmarks of the brand. The Macallan is recognised around the world as the ultimate marque of excellence and innovation , and the new facility will embody these characteristics in a design that complements the natural beauty of the area and The Macallan Estate.
Creating a site of major architectural significance in the heart of Speyside will consolidate The Macallan’s position as one of the world’s leading luxury spirits. Over time the distillery is expected to deliver additional capacity to meet the growing demand from existing and new international markets.
Ian Curle, chief executive of Edrington, says: “This is a confident investment in the future of The Macallan and its home on Speyside. Our plan for the estate includes a contemporary distillery that embodies the international style of The Macallan and builds on the brand’s tradition of quality and craftsmanship. As this long-term investment develops it will bring significant employment and economic benefit to the local community.”
Ken Grier, Edrington’s director of malts, says: “As a leading luxury single malt, it was imperative that we selected an architect that understood and respected the importance of the history of The Macallan but had the experience and skills to create a building that is inspirational in its interpretation of contemporary luxury. In selecting RSHP, we have chosen a partner that shares our values and pushes the boundaries of style and quality.
“Easter Elchies House plays an integral role in the history and future of The Macallan. The proposal from RSHP will retain the integrity and importance of Easter Elchies House and the estate in the future. We are confident that this will give international visitors an outstanding impression of both The Macallan andScotlandand will build on the brand’s position as the definitive luxury spirit.”
Subject to receiving planning consent, work on the project will begin in autumn 2014 and is due to be completed in spring 2017.
Edrington owns some of the leading Scotch whisky and rum brands in the world, including The Macallan, Brugal, The Famous Grouse, Cutty Sark andHighland Park. In addition to its core brands, Edrington acquired Snow Leopard vodka in 2013.
Edrington directly controls its route to market in sixteen countries, and operates the remainder through joint venture and third party agreements. Over the past five years the company has increased the international nature of its business through the acquisition of the Brugal and Cutty Sark brands and sales and distribution companies in key markets.
Edrington is headquartered in Scotland and employs more than 2,200 people worldwide, with over 60% employed overseas.
