OVER 100 guests gathered at the Beam distillery in the east of Glasgow last week to mark the official launch of three new maturation warehouses.
And the occasion at the Beam’s Westhorn site also marked the 60th anniversary of the premium spirits company in Glasgow.
The expansion of warehouse space increases the holding capacity for Beam’s ageing Scotch Whisky by nearly 20 percent, with brands Teacher’s, Laphroaig and Ardmore all benefitting from the £3 million investment.
It will allow 75,000 additional casks of Scotch to be aged at one time.
Now the company can look to meet growing consumer demand worldwide, helping to support future growth for its premium Scotch Whisky portfolio.
The day was marked with a visit from EMEA president, Albert Baladi who enjoyed drinks crafted by a team from spirits company, Maxxium.
Of the occasion, Mr Baladi said, “This will help us meet future demand in both developing and emerging markets. We see a very bright future for Teacher’s, Laphroaig and Ardmore, and are making appropriate investments to support their growth.”
The original site opened in 1953 after being converted from the original Westthorn dairy farm.
On trade sales director for Maxxium, Jim Grierson said it was a fitting way to celebrate the occasion, adding, “It’s a great way to celebrate the commitment to the area, the site, and the brand. It shows a real investment in Scotch whisky as well, which is great for the industry.”
Mr Baladi also paid tribute to Douglas Reid, director of Scotch and Irish whisky who is to retire at the end of the month after 17 years with the company.
He said, “I want to thank a very humble man who has been an authentic leader. He is a real people’s person and has been a big part in driving the company forward in this division.”
Beam have also invested to increase its Bourbon portfolio capacity at its Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark distilleries in Kentucky.