RECORD YEAR FOR SCOTCH EXPORTS

Published: 23 July, 2008

Exports of Scotch whisky have passed the one billion bottle mark for the first time ever, reports the Scotch Whisky Association. Volumes in 2001 increased by 2.4%, taking total exports to 1,012,970,175, with the European Union taking 448,732,175. It is the first time in five years that the value of Scotch exports has surpassed volume, rising 6.4% to 2.3 billion. Sales to Asia rose by nearly 17%, to 181 million bottles, and value was up almost 12%, to 480 million. South Korea and Japan showed volume increases of 26.5% and 32.9% respectively. Ian Good, of the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), said: One billion bottles to more than 200 markets worldwide is a feat that both the industry and the country can be proud of. Scotland is a tiny nation,' said Good, yet we produce a spirit of such prestige that it is enjoyed in even the most far-flung corners of the globe. Not only is this good news for the industry,' he added, but also for the jobs that depend upon it and the nation's balance of payments. 2001 was a record-breaking year that showed the world's love affair with Scotch is stronger than ever.' Brian Megson, Kyndal's chairman and chief executive, said: The figures released by the SWA are great news for the industry. Kyndal's figures mirror those released by the SWA, with good performances across both our branded and private label businesses. The SWA reported industry export volume growth of 2.4% last year compared to the previous year,' said Megson. In this period, Kyndal performed ahead of this, at 4%.'

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