A SCOTTISH island spirit is now the first spirit distiller from the Outer Hebrides that will be distributed by a UK-wide supermarket.
The Isle of Barra Distillers has signed a deal that will see its spirit sold at 120 Waitrose & Partners stores across the country.
Michael Morrison, the firm’s managing director, said this is a “massive vote of confidence” for the small island business.
Morrison, who co-founded the family business with his wife Katie Morrison in 2017, said: “To say we are delighted is an understatement. This is a big moment for our team here on Barra.
“This deal gives us exposure to hundreds of thousands of shoppers across the UK in one of the country’s premium stores.”
The announcement comes as The Isle of Barra Distillers plan to expand their team on the island as they prepare to open the first whisky distillery on the island.
Planning permission was granted in December 2022 and construction of the £12m distillery is due to start later this year.
Katie Morrison added: “The progress we’ve made since we decided to set up the business six years ago has been amazing.
“It reflects the quality of the product, the passion and commitment of our small team and the fantastic support we’ve had from the community here on Barra.”
The firm said the distillery’s construction is expected to complete in 2025, which will allow it to produce 550,000 bottles of whisky per year and employ up to 41 people, providing a boost to the island’s economy.
