Spirits giant buys into Irish whiskey distiller
HALEWOOD Wines & Spirits has bought a significant stake in whiskey maker West Cork Distillers for an undisclosed sum.
The Liverpool-based alcoholic drinks manufacturer and distributor said the deal would further strengthen its partnership in jointly developing and distributing the distiller’s Irish whiskey portfolio through international markets.
Halewood already distributes West Cork’s products in eight markets and plans to jointly expand its global reach.
The West Cork range includes a West Cork Blended Whiskey, comprised of 25% Single Malt Irish Whiskey and 75% Grain Irish Whiskey, finished in sherry and bourbon casks respectively; and a 10 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey, aged in sherry casks.
Halewood has worked very closely with West Cork Distillers since acquiring a 50% stake in its The Pogues Whiskey brand in March.
It sees the investment as an opportunity to capitalise on increased consumer interest in imported Irish whiskies, where the North West and Scotland are driving the growth in Irish whiskey consumption.
West Cork Distillers was set up in 2003 in Skibbereen by two former fishermen and a Phd technical specialist in food & drink and is one of only two independent distillers in Ireland.
Stewart Hainsworth, chief executive of Halewood Wines & Spirits, said: “West Cork Distillers has a great brand story to tell, and their innovation and passion for whiskey will help to deliver further success.
“Halewood continues to grow its spirits portfolio with craft products that offer the trade and consumers a point-of-difference from the mainstream brands. West Cork Distillers reflects our entrepreneurial attitude to develop new products and increase distribution both in the UK and internationally.”
John O’Connell, managing director and co-founder of West Cork Distillers added: “This partnership offers a great opportunity to take the business forward. It strengthens our offering in new markets whilst supporting our existing, and greatly valued, distribution partners to greater degree through the development of a cohesive marketing strategy. We are looking forward to the future; Halewood is a great partner to have in your corner.”
