EDEN Mill, the St Andrews-based brewer, and distiller, has reported a bumper rise in revenue, powered by growing gin sales and the expansion of its product portfolio.

And it flagged its ambition to expand production further, with plans to create the industry’s “first carbon-neutral distillery”. The business, formed by drinks industry stalwart Paul Miller in 2012, turned over £8 million in the year to March, up 48 percent on the year before. The company made an operating profit of £495,000 for the period, and forecasts this will rise to £800,000 for the current year. Sales for the first six months of the current year are 17 percent up on the same period the year before.

Mr. Miller, a former executive of Molson Coors, Glenmorangie, and Diageo, said: “We’re delighted with our financial results for the last twelve months. Gin sales are on the up and whiskey is creating real long-term value for the business. Our strategy is based on innovation, experience, and convenience as we develop new products, grow our visitor attractions and ensure we are targeting the right customers with the right products. We are especially pleased with sales of our “ready to drink” range which has attracted a new audience to gin.”

Eden said it has completed the integration of Cumbria’s Eden River Brewery, which it acquired in February, stating that it has given the business the scope to expand gin and beer production and more flexibility to develop new products.

Mr. Miller added: “To achieve our expansion goals, we are currently in talks with third parties and evaluating longer-term funding options to create the first carbon-neutral distillery and visitor center. In addition, we are also looking to significantly expand our whiskey production capability. The new distillery is on track to open at the end of 2020.”

Eden Mill highlighted the increasing importance of gin tourism to the business. It operates two venues for its Blend works Gin School experience, in St Andrews and Glasgow’s Princes Square, where visitors can create their own gin. Pop-ups are planned for Edinburgh and London.

Read More at source: Herald Scotland

Image Source: Herald Scotland