Benbecula Distillery – one of Scotland’s newest whisky producers – has secured a £1.5 million investment from the British Business Bank’s Investment Fund for Scotland.
Delivered via Maven Capital Partners, the deal represents the fund’s first equity investment in the Highlands and Islands.
The funding will enable the Outer Hebridean distillery embark on a programme of growth, including scaling up production, supporting the whisky maturation process and expanding its headcount on the island.
The deal comes as Benbecula Distillery launched its strictly limited second private cask offering, providing whisky enthusiasts and investors with the opportunity to secure early access to the distillery’s spirit ahead of the first bottled releases.
Angus MacMillan, founder of Benbecula Distillery, said: “Securing this investment is a major milestone for us and for the island. It gives us the ability to scale production with confidence, continue creating skilled jobs locally, and develop visitor experiences that bring people closer to our story.
“Most importantly, it allows us to keep laying down spirit for future generations. Benbecula Distillery was founded to celebrate the Outer Hebrides’ people and place and this backing helps us realise that vision.”
Sarah Newbould from the British Business Bank, said: “Benbecula Distillery is the perfect example of the kind of bold, community-rooted venture we’re proud to see the fund support.
“The distillery team’s dedication to its craft and local impact mirrors our mission to help smaller businesses succeed and we are eager to see where they take the brand next.”
Rob Stevenson, investment manager at Maven, said: “What stood out to us immediately was the distillery’s dedication to craft, a deep respect for industry tradition, and a clear vision for the future, which includes a strong commitment to doing things the right way.
“We believe the investment has the potential to bolster the island community while building a brand that celebrates Scotland’s whisky heritage.”
Hutcheon Mearns acquired
Professional services group Cooper Parry has acquired accountancy firm Hutcheon Mearns, founded in Aberdeen in 2015.
The 70-strong Hutcheon Mearns team join a firm now pushing pro forma turnover beyond £250m.
Co-founder and managing director Craig Hutcheon said: “Right from our initial chat with Ade and his team it was clear that there was an instant connection in culture, spirit and values.”
Neil Norman, head of Scotland at Cooper Parry, added: “With this latest strategic acquisition, our team in Scotland is now tipping 100 strong.
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