EDRINGTON SELLS FAMOUS GROUSE AND NAKED MALT TO WILLIAM GRANT & SONS

In a significant move for the Scotch whisky industry, Edrington, the drinks company behind renowned brands like The Macallan and Highland Park, has agreed to sell its blended whisky brands, The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt, to William Grant & Sons. The deal, announced through Edrington’s subsidiary The 1887 Company Limited, is still awaiting regulatory approval, and it marks a notable shift in the company’s focus.

Edrington’s CEO, Scott McCroskie, explained that the decision to sell these brands aligns with the company’s strategy of concentrating on ultra-premium spirits. “We consider this the right moment for Edrington to exit the blended Scotch category and focus on our core portfolio of ultra-premium spirit brands,” McCroskie said. He emphasised that both The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt are strong brands that have performed well under Edrington’s ownership and are well-positioned for further success with William Grant & Sons.

William Grant & Sons, a family-owned distiller with a rich heritage, views the acquisition as a great opportunity. A spokesperson for the company expressed excitement about the potential for innovation and international growth, particularly for The Famous Grouse, which has been a popular whisky for over 125 years.

Edrington will continue to focus on its ultra-premium offerings, with The Macallan leading the charge. The company has seen strong financial growth, reporting an 11% rise in revenue in the year to March 2024, driven primarily by the success of The Macallan.

This sale marks a new chapter for both companies and reflects the evolving priorities in the whisky industry, where premium features are becoming increasingly important.