Isle of Bute Gin plans expansion

Scottish producer Isle of Bute Gin Distillery has revealed plans to ramp up production and move to a larger site.

Opened in 2020 by husband-and-wife team Rhona and Jack Wheatley, Isle of Bute Gin Distillery uses local botanicals and even oyster shells to flavour its gins.

The company said it had witnessed ‘high levels’ of consumer demand with the return of tourists and day-trippers this summer.

As such, the firm is planning to move to a bigger site at Bute Yard, allowing the distiller to scale up production and provide gin tastings and cocktail masterclasses.

The Rothesay-based producer has worked with Business Gateway since 2019, with the company providing support for the opening of the distillery, as well as funding through the Business Gateway Local Growth Accelerator Programme.

Through the programme, the gin distiller has been able to take on more staff, increase brand awareness in Scotland and distribute to bars, restaurants, hotels and attractions.

Furthermore, the support allowed the distillery to steadily increase production and grow sales over the past 18 months.

Rhona Wheatley said: “Business Gateway helped us get our foot in the door in 2020 as we set about relocating the business back to Bute, during the initial lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“They provided helpful introductions to the wider network, and our adviser always made sure we were aware of any news or potential opportunities that might benefit us.”

“The growth we’ve experienced over the last year has been supported by the Business Gateway service. The funding helped us grow our team, and we’re excited to take the next step as we move into larger purpose-built premises.”