William Grant & Son reports strong growth

By Michelle Perrett

Published: 04 October, 2018

William Grant & Sons has reported strong profit growth of 12.6% to £250.2 million after tax for the year ended 31 December 2017.

Group turnover for the period hit £1,188.1 million.

The company said its “favourable performance” was driven by volume and value growth of core brands, all of which performed well within their respective categories.

Main contributors to overall growth were Glenfiddich, Hendrick’s and The Balvenie, it said

Strong growth of Glenfiddich was attributed to the brand attracting the “next generation of premium whisky drinkers” through its Experimental series, of which the third expression - Winter Storm, was launched in 2017.

Hendrick’s Gin also continued to lead the super-premium gin category, it added.

The strong 2017 performance was testimony to the “hard work and talent of our dedicated team around the world”, said chief executive Simon Hunt.

“Since William Grant founded our company over 130 years ago, we have consistently invested in our people and in our brands for the long term. We continue to develop the business with an independent and pioneering mind set, giving us a strong competitive platform for continued future growth.”

During 2017, William Grant & Sons acquired the Tuthilltown Spirits Company, where it distils its Hudson whiskey. It also opened a new grain distillery and bottling plant at Tullamore, creating a home for the world’s second largest Irish whiskey brand, Tullamore DEW. In addition, it took control of distribution arrangements in its key market, France.

Earlier this week, the company announced the expansion of its Hendrick’s Gin distillery in Girvan, Scotland.

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