William Grant achieves record £1bn turnover

Global spirits producer William Grant & Sons has turned over £1 billion for the first time in its 125-year history.

Glenfiddich helped drive William Grant’s record sales by shifting over one million cases

The family-owned company saw turnover increase 9% during 2011 to £1.05bn, although group operating profit fell £6.1m to £126.3m.

William Grant puts the fall in profit down to “tough global economic conditions”, and some significant investment in its innovation brands including Hudson Baby Bourbon, Monkey Shoulder and Reyka Vodka.

In addition, the group has invested heavily in infrastructure and route to market, establishing a marketing office for the Nordics ion Stockholm and a new distribution hub in Singapore.

It also acquire 100% ownership of premium Tequila brand Milagro during the year, which William Grant claims is performing well in its core markets of Mexico and the US.

Stella David, William Grant & Sons’ chief executive, said: “Whilst 2011 saw some tough global economic conditions, the Company performed well thanks to the continued success of our premium spirits brands and our consistent focus on building brand equity, improving our route to market and investing for the long-term.”

The group’s leading single malt Scotch brand Glenfiddich topped one million cases during the year, while blended Scotch Grant’s reached five million cases.