Exports boost Lark Distilling H1 sales by 10%
Australian whisky maker Lark Distilling Co reported a 10% uplift in sales for the last six months of 2025, led by international exports and e-commerce.
The Tasmanian-based producer saw net sales after excise reach AU$8.7 million (US$6.15m) in the first half (H1) of its 2025/26 financial year (July-December). For the first quarter, the group also posted a 10% gain.
Lark reported growth of 17% in both global travel retail (GTR) and direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales in H1, which reached AU$1m (US$706,115) and AU$4.2m (US$2.96m) respectively.
GTR was bolstered by speciality releases and increased visibility for Lark in Australian airports. The company also signed a new partnership with a travel retail agency in Singapore to boost its expansion into Asian airports.
Direct export net sales grew by AU$800,000 (US$565,000) to AU$1.3m (US$916,675), led by improving sales in Asia.
However, domestic business-to-business sales plunged by 24% to AU$2.3m (US$1.6m) due to a previous direct-sales model, as well as shipment timing and one-off transition effects.
Whisky net sales were also up by 18% in H1. The company said its whisky bank totalled 2.4m litres at the end of 2025.
The business ended 2025 in a strong cash position with AU$18.3m (US$12.9m) and remains debt free.
New portfolio push
Lark said it would continue to prepare for the launch of its new portfolio in the second half of its financial year, covering January to June 2026.
The group unveiled its redesigned luxury single malt portfolio last month, a range of four expressions (one of which is a GTR exclusive) in a new visual identity.
Stuart Gregor, who became CEO of Lark on 1 January 2026, said: “We’ve laid strong groundwork for the upcoming launch of our anticipated brand restage, crafting a portfolio and identity that stands shoulder to shoulder with the finest whiskies anywhere in the world.”
Gregor said the focus would now turn to its partnerships with the trade and distributors as they work together to educate consumers about the new portfolio.
During the company’s H1, Lark also completed the redevelopment of its Pontville distillery, which has increased its distilling capacity. The flagship Hobart Cellar Door also went through a major refurbishment, providing an enhanced experience for visitors.
Looking ahead to the rest of the financial year, Lark plans to continue rolling out its new portfolio with updated branding to support the company’s “premium positioning and global scalability”.
Lark Distilling expects net sales to keep growing “despite challenging market conditions”.
For the year ended 30 June 2025, Lark Distilling Co saw revenue rise by 12%, boosted by GTR and online sales.
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