The family-owned Moray firm behind the world’s best-selling single malt whisky saw turnover and profits rocket after core brands did well during 2016.
Dufftown-based William Grant and Sons said yesterday turnover smashed through the £1billion mark, more than 20% ahead of the year before.
Pre-tax profits surged by nearly 47% last year to £260.2million, from £177.2million previously.
Sales were helped by strong growth in global demand for the company’s flagship Glenfiddich single malt.
More than 1.2million cases of Glenfiddich – each containing 12 standard 70cl bottles – were exported around the world last year, making it the top-selling single malt, industry figures show. William Grant also produces The Balvenie range of single malts and the Grant’s and Monkey Shoulder blended whiskies, as well as Hendrick’s gin, Sailor Jerry rum, Tullamore D.E.W. Irish whiskey and Drambuie liqueur.
“Turnover growth was driven by strong volume and value growth of core brands,” the near-130-year-old firm said yesterday.
It added: “Despite a year of political and economic uncertainty, the company continued to invest in its people, brands and global infrastructure for the long term. Favourable performance was driven by core brands, which all performed well within their categories.”
Chief executive Simon Hunt said: “Consistent investment in our brands, in markets and in future-proofing our operational infrastructure, provides a solid platform to continue our growth.”