THE rapid rise of Arran Brewery plc will continue this week when it completes a deal to acquire the Rosebank Distillery in Falkirk from Scottish Canals.
The firm, the result of this month’s merger between the Isle of Arran and Skye breweries, aims to begin brewing at Rosebank next year, subject to planning approval.
It also plans to restore whisky distilling at the site, last used by Diageo, in 2017 and establish a visitor centre linked to other canal-side tourist attractions, including the Falkirk Wheel.
The latest acquisition comes as Arran engages in a major fundraising exercise.
Boss Gerald Michaluk aims to raise £10 million over the next three years, with the funds earmarked for expanding production on Arran and Skye, a new bottling hall on the mainland, investment in pubs and further acquisitions.
Michaluk aims to grow the business rapidly to offset the duty increase it will face when production hits 60,000 hectolitres. “In order for us to go well and above that we’re looking at a massive increase in turnover and activities,” he told SLTN.
“What we’re doing is normal in America – companies grow this rapidly in America all the time – it just seems unusual in Scotland.”
• SLTN View, page 15.
