Gordon & MacPhail has announced a 26 per cent rise to £5.1 million in profits in the year to end February.
The company, owned by the Urquhart family, announced that its main trading activity increased by 11 per cent to £31.4 million. International sales were up 22 per cent to £10.9 million with UK sales at £20.5 million – a rise of six per cent.
This year’s accounts include the proceeds from bulk sales of mature single whisky stocks to the value of £8 million. As a result, overall sales increased by 39 per cent to £39.4m with profit before tax of £12.9m.
The firm said that as Benromach had begun its 20 anniversary year since distilling restarted, sales continued to rise, with targeted brand building activity contributing to 22 per cent growth.
Gordon & MacPhail whiskies also performed well with an increase in sales of 14 per cent, helped by exploiting new routes to market.
The company continued to invest in buying new and seasoned sherry casks and fillings from distilleries around Scotland.
Strong performance in premium single malt whisky and gin led to good progress for the UK wholesale operation and the decision was taken to focus on this aspect of the business and withdraw from wine and beers wholesaling in the future.