Edrington, through its subsidiary The 1887 Company Limited, has announced that it has reached an agreement to sell The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt Scotch Whisky brands to William Grant & Sons.
The deal is subject to customary regulatory approvals, including from the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).
“This decision is driven by our strategy to focus on our core strengths and the growth opportunities in the ultra-premium spirits category,” says Scott McCroskie, Edrington CEO. “We consider this the right moment for Edrington to exit the blended Scotch category and focus on our core portfolio of ultra-premium spirit brands.
“The Famous Grouse is a well-loved brand that has consistently performed in its category during the time it has been part of Edrington, and Naked Malt has grown its reputation,” McCroskie adds. “I am confident that these brands are well-positioned to continue to succeed as part of the William Grant & Sons portfolio.”