Halewood Wines & Spirits has acquired “a significant stake” in West Cork Distillers to further strengthen its partnership in jointly developing and distributing its innovative Irish whiskey portfolio throughout international markets.
Halewood already distributes West Cork’s products in eight markets and plans to jointly expand its global reach. Halewood has worked very closely with West Cork Distillers, the producer and global distributor of The Pogues whiskey, since acquiring a 50% stake in the brand earlier in the year.
The deal looks to capitalise on increased consumer interest in imported Irish whiskies, which are growing both in terms of value and volume, Halewood said. With the Northwest of England and Scotland being key drivers of Irish whiskey consumption, it added that it was perfectly positioned to take advantage of the trend.
The Skibbereen, County Cork-based company’s proposition of genuine Irish provenance and its use of high-quality liquids containing local ingredients attracts new consumers to the category, while providing existing drinkers with exciting options to trade up, Halewood added.
Stewart Hainsworth, chief executive of Halewood Wines & Spirits, commented: “This purchase reflects our commitment to working with West Cork Distillers to develop a long-term partnership, for the distillery, Skibbereen and the beautiful county of Cork. 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, MD 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.”
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