Isle of Barra Distillers has secured two new major export agreements with China and Hong Kong bringing the independently owned distillery’s spirits to key Asian markets for the first time.
This landmark export agreement follows the end-of-year financial results for 2024
showing a 26.2% increase in revenue for the island-based distillery from the previous
year.
Michael Morrison, co-founder of the distillery, said: “Export is a vital component
of our business - last year we saw a massive 85% uplift year on year for export sales
from deals across Europe and India and we’re feeling optimistic about 2025 despite
the difficult market conditions.
“We’re incredibly grateful to our new export partners for collaborating with us and helping us bring a wee taste of our Hebridean home to new markets.”
He added: “Last year was such a monumental year for us - we secured new listings
in Sainsbury’s and Waitrose and saw strong results, we launched our very first blended
whisky, we brought in five new team members, opened an office on the mainland and
started construction on our new distillery in Eoligarry.
“None of this, of course, would be possible without our incredible team. Their dedication and resilience, particularly in challenging times, have been inspiring.”
The company was launched in 2017 by husband and wife Barra natives Katie and Michael Morrison who wanted to create a future for their family and generations to come and, in doing so, founded Scotland’s most westerly distillery.
In December, the business officially broke ground on its new distillery in Castlebay. The £12 million venture is said to be the largest single private investment ever made on Barra and will bring major benefits to the island’s economy and community. The distillery is scheduled to open this October with production starting shortly after.
Isle of Barra Distillers break into Asian market
19 February 2025