Crucial Drinks aims to double in size by 2018

Independent spirits company Crucial Drinks has secured a £2 million investment with a vision to “double the business” by 2018.

The investment secured will support Crucial’s plans to build the profile of its brands, which include The Lost Distillery Company

The firm, which is based in Ayrshire, Scotland, secured the funds through existing shareholders and an extension to its banking facility with Clydesdale.

The investment secured will support Crucial’s plans to drive efficiency, accelerate business growth and build the profile of its brands – The Lost Distillery Company and Six Saints rum – in key overseas markets such as Germany, France, Asia and North America.

Scott Watson, co-founder of Crucial Drinks, said: “Our combined efforts with Clydesdale and our shareholders has been extremely successful. These funds are vital to us achieving the growth and scale we have planned to extend existing operations in Scotland, while meeting the increasing consumer demand for our artisan brands.

“Clydesdale really understand our sector and make things happen quickly for our business. Our shareholders and bank share our ambition and vision to double the business by 2018.”

Over the last three years Crucial Drinks has developed an extensive distribution network for its key brands overseas, and now exports to 40 markets across the globe.

As part of its expansion, the firm recently moved its operations to Scottish stately home Dumfries House.

Linda Paterson, relationship manager at Clydesdale, added:”Crucial Drinks is a highly regarded and innovative drinks exporter based in Scotland. It’s great to see the business grow into its grand new home at Dumfries House.

“Clydesdale Bank is proud to support food and drink businesses achieve their growth ambitions. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Crucial Drinks as they look to expand further in the future.”

In July, Crucial Drinks appointed whisky connoisseur Ewan Henderson to the role of global brand ambassador.