Ian Macleod Distillers buys a second
distillery – Speyside’s Tamdhu
Ian Macleod Distillers, the independent,
family-owned distiller, blender and
bottler has purchased Tamdhu distillery
in Speyside from the Edrington Group.
Established in 1897, Tamdhu’s
distillation capacity of four million
litres of alcohol per year will support
the continued growth of Ian Macleod’s
existing brands, including Isle of Skye,
Lang’s and the King Robert II blends.
The Tamdhu Single Malt brand is also
included in the sale, and Ian Macleod
Distillers plans to significantly
develop its sales both within the UK and
abroad.
Leonard Russell, Managing Director of
Ian Macleod Distillers, said: “Having
purchased Glengoyne Distillery from
Edrington in 2003, we are delighted to
be acquiring a second distillery from
them, safe in the knowledge that it has
been maintained to a very high standard
and comes with a reputation for
producing exceptional quality single
malt.
“I am also pleased that we will be
securing and creating new local
employment during these uncertain
economic times. We are looking forward
to developing the Tamdhu single malt
following our successful growth of
Glengoyne”.
Ian Curle, Chief Executive of The
Edrington Group, said: "The Edrington
Group is delighted to complete the sale
of Tamdhu to Ian Macleod Distillers.
Edrington and Ian Macleod have a good
relationship stretching back many years,
and we know the Tamdhu Distillery and
brand will be in good hands. From
Edrington's perspective, the sale will
further de-complex our business,
allowing us to continue to focus on the
growth of our five key brands, The
Famous Grouse, The Macallan, Brugal,
Cutty Sark and Highland Park.”
Since purchasing Glengoyne distillery in
2003, Ian Macleod Distillers has more
than doubled sales of Glengoyne Single
Malt. Ian Macleod has built four
additional maturation warehouses,
capable of housing up to 5 million
litres and has invested in the visitor
experience with renovations and
improvements increasing visitor numbers
to nearly 50,000.
The Glengoyne brand is currently
promoting a new long-term marketing
initiative based on the fact that
Glengoyne is ‘distilled more slowly than
any other Scotch Whisky for the highest
quality’ and is investing upwards of £1
million in the UK drive alone over the
next two years.
Ian Macleod Distillers recently
announced improved financial results for
the eighth consecutive year, with group
turnover increasing 22% to £31.9 million
in 2010. The purchase of Tamdhu
Distillery was concluded on 28 June for
an undisclosed sum. |