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Scotland-based international spirits company Edrington has revealed plans to sell its The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt brands.

The deal, made through Edrington’s subsidiary The 1887 Company, will see the whisky brands offloaded to William Grant & Sons.

William Grant & Sons is a family-owned Scottish company that distills and bottles whisky and other spirits.

Edrington says the deal marks the next stage of the company’s mission to be a leader in crafting ultra-premium spirit brands.

Scott McCroskie, Edrington’s CEO, 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 focus on our core portfolio of ultra-premium spirit brands.”

McCroskie continued: “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.”

Last year, Edrington increased its shareholding in Wyoming Whiskey to 80%, following its acquisition of an initial 35% stake in 2018. In January this year, William Grant & Sons appointed Søren Hagh as its chief executive officer, taking over from Glenn Gordon, who remained as non-executive director on the board.

The acquisition is subject to customary regulatory approvals, including from the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

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