Scotch Whisky industry’s ‘second golden age’ generates £4bn per year

NEW research by the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) has revealed the Scotch Whisky industry generates more than £4bn per year.

The report released to mark the centenary of the SWA says the industry is in a “second golden age”.

The Scotch whisky industry is worth £2.9 billion, with £1.3 billion generated through the supply chain. It also supports an estimated 36,000 jobs.

The report, named Scotch Whisky & Scotland’s Economy - A 100-Year Blend, found that the growing international export market had provided a boost to the industry in recent years.

SWA chief executive, Gavin Hewitt, said: “This new research is further evidence of the key role Scotch whisky plays in the Scottish economy.

“The demand for Scotch Whisky is coming increasingly from the world’s fastest growing markets.

“In comparison with other Scottish industries, Scotch whisky already enjoys an enviable export position across a wide spread of emerging economies.

“The report shows Scotch whisky is likely to play an increasingly important role in Scotland’s export markets.

“The momentum of growth needs to be better nurtured by both the UK and Scottish Governments. Scotch whisky underpins their ambitions for export-led recovery.”