Struie smashes crowdfunding target by 129%
Independent spirits producer The Thompson Brothers has closed its crowdfunding campaign for the ‘world’s most energy-efficient distillery’ after raising £2,395,125 (US$3.19 million) – 129% over the original goal.
The crowdfunding campaign launched on Crowdcube in March with an initial target of £1.85m (US$2.46m). The raise will fund the construction of the Struie Distillery, a cutting-edge sustainable distillery located in Dornoch, Scotland, fewer than 200 meters from the company’s current site, Dornoch Distillery.
The ‘ambitious’ project aims to redefine the future of whisky production while boosting the local economy and advancing sustainable industry practices.
Reflecting on the success of the crowdfunding campaign, founders Phil and Simon Thompson commented: “We are overwhelmed by the support from our community and investors. Surpassing our funding target not only validates our vision but also accelerates our journey toward establishing Struie Distillery as a beacon of sustainability in the global whisky industry.”
“This marks a significant milestone for us and we’re excited to go forward and break ground with a further 720 investors behind us.”
The new distillery, designed by Leask Architects, will feature patent-pending technology and renewable energy sources, ensuring zero carbon emissions through scope one and two.
The project is also expected to significantly boost the local economy, creating new jobs and engaging the estimated 12,000 annual visitors to the region, which is also home to Dornoch Castle hotel and its whisky bar, and The Royal Dornoch Golf Club Championship Course.
Earlier this month, a trio of industry ‘titans’ joined the Struie Distillery board.
Ryan Chetiyawardana (AKA Mr Lyan), Rebecca Jago, and Nick Ravenhall were all brought on to help deliver on the sustainability, business and strategic goals of the company across Struie Distillery and the wider group, Thompson Independent Traders Limited (TITL), which consists of Dornoch Castle Hotel, Dornoch Distillery Company, Thompson Bros Independent bottling and blending as well as the new Struie Distillery development.
The crowdfunding campaign is part of an overall raise of £5m (US$6.6m) into TITL. The additional money will come from a combination of new and existing investors via a series A fundraise.
The company says it plans to break ground on the build in the third quarter of 2025.
Related news
Salford Rum smashes £250k crowdfunding target
