SWA opens London office

The Scotch Whisky Association has opened a new office in London as the category continues to grow and contribute to the UK economy.

London skyline

The new offices mark the “growing investment in Scotland’s booming Scotch whisky trade,” according to the SWA, and are the association’s largest ever permanent presence outside of Edinburgh.

At the opening event, environment secretary, Elizabeth Truss, hailed Scotch’s increasing contribution to the UK economy saying: “Whisky is at the forefront of Britain’s food and drink revolution, helping to drive the UK’s global reputation for world-beating quality and authenticity. It is the powerhouse behind our £100 billion food and drink industry and is a global export success with 38 bottles leaving our shores every second.

“Over the next five years, we want to unleash the potential of Britain’s finest food and drink producers by boosting exports, securing investment and flying the flag for British produce both at home and abroad. We will continue to work closely with the SWA and industry to ensure they have the support, skills and opportunities to take risks and gain access to emerging markets. It is yet more proof of how we are stronger together in the United Kingdom.”

David Frost, the SWA’s chief executive, said: “We believe other industries can learn from the success of Scotch whisky. We are keen to work in collaboration with the government to help grow exports and the wider UK economy.

“The Scotch whisky industry is going through a time of expansion. There are now 117 distilleries in Scotland, with seven opening in the last year or so. About 40 new distilleries are currently being planned or built to meet demand for the quality product.

“Our London office, near Westminster, will give us even better access to decision makers in the UK and internationally.”