Ian Macleod Distillers (IMD), which produces the Glengoyne, Macleod’s, Smokehead, Isle of Skye and Tamdhu brands has added to its whisky range after snapping up Fife firm Spencerfield Spirit Company.
The deal, which was for an undisclosed sum, sees Broxburn, West Lothian-based IMD snap up the Pig’s Nose, Sheep Dip and The Feathery whiskies, as well as Spencerfield’s flagship Edinburgh Gin.
IMD, which previously distributed Spencerfield’s drink brands, said production of Edinburgh Gin would continue at the distillery and visitor centre in Rutland Place, Edinburgh, and at a second site – The Biscuit Factory – in Leith.
Edinburgh Gin founders Alex and Jane Nicol will continue to work with the business during a transition period.
Family-owned IMD said the acquisition secured all jobs, while it planned to make a further investment in the Spencerfield portfolio.
IMD managing director Leonard Russell said: “This announcement is great news for both companies and further strengthens our portfolio of premium spirit brands.
“Edinburgh Gin will be a great addition to our existing brand portfolio. We are eager to build upon this foundation and the success of the Nicol family.”
Mr Nicol added: “We have built a solid partnership with Ian Macleod Distillers over the last three years and feel they are in an excellent position to take forward Edinburgh Gin and the Spencerfield Spirit portfolio.”
IMD became a fully integrated distiller, blender and bottler when it acquired Glengoyne Distillery, near Loch Lomond, in 2003.
It claims to be the world’s 10th largest Scotch whisky company, producing and selling more than 15million bottles of spirit every year.
Earlier this year, the company revealed a surge in pre-tax profits to £8.3million during the 12 months to September 30 – up from £6.7million the year before.