Edrington announces plans to sell whisky brands
MASSIVE drinks firm Edrington has announced plans to sell The Famous Grouse brand to William Grant & Sons, alongside the Naked Malt Scotch Whisky brand.
The two brands will be taken into the William Grant & Sons portfolio following approval from the UK’s Competitions and Markets Authority as Edrington said this marks the next stage of the company’s mission to be “the world’s best at crafting exceptional ultra-premium spirit brands”.
Scott McCroskie, chief executive of Edrington, said: “This decision is driven by our strategy to focus on our core strengths and the growth opportunities in the ultra-premium spirits category.
“We consider this the right moment for Edrington to exit the blended Scotch category and focis on our core portfolio of ultra-premium spirit brands.
“The Famous Grouse is a well-loved brand that has consistently performed in its category during the time it has been part of Edrington, and Naked Malt has grown its reputation. I am confident that these brands are well-positioned to continue to succeed as part of the William Grant & Sons portfolio.”
The sale of the two brands has been made via Edrington’s subsidiary firm The 1887 Company as William Grant & Sons are set to welcome the well-established The Famous Grouse brand into its repertoire.
The two new additions of The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt will make up an already expansive range of whisky brands under the William Grant & Sons name including The Balvenie, Glenfiddich and Grant’s.
A spokesperson for William Grant & Sons said: “Having been around for over 125 years, The Famous Grouse has a rich history and would be a significant addition to our portfolio.
“The brand has potential and international growth in a number of markets, and we’re excited about what the future holds.”
