Edrington to sell The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt to William Grant & Sons

Edrington and William Grant & Sons on Tuesday announced that they have reached an agreement for the sale of The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt brands.

William Grant & Sons will buy the brands from The 1887 Company, a subsidiary of Edrington.

Founded in 1896 in Perthshire, Scotland, The Famous Grouse is a quality blended whisky and much-loved brand that would add to William Grant & Sons’ portfolio of renowned whiskies and spirits, that includes Glenfiddich, Grant's, The Balvenie, and Hendrick's Gin, among others.

“Having been around for over 125 years, The Famous Grouse has a rich history and would be a significant addition to our portfolio. The brand has potential for innovation and international growth in a number of markets, and we’re excited about what the future holds,” a spokesperson for William Grant & Sons commented.

Edrington, which owns The Macallan, Highland Park and The Glenrothes single malts, said the deal marks the next stage of the company’s mission to be the world’s best at crafting exceptional ultra-premium spirit brands.

“This decision is driven by our strategy to focus on our core strengths and the growth opportunities in the ultra-premium spirits category. 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,” Scott McCroskie, Edrington chief executive, said.

“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. I am confident that these brands are well-positioned to continue to succeed as part of the William Grant & Sons portfolio.”

The acquisition is subject to customary regulatory approvals, including from the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority.