One of Scotland’s newest whisky producers, the Benbecula Distillery in the Outer Hebrides, has secured a £1.5 million investment boost from the British Business Bank’s Investment Fund for Scotland.
The new funding will enable the distillery to embark on a programme of growth, including scaling up production, supporting its whisky maturation process and expanding its headcount on its home island.
Delivered via Maven Capital Partners, the deal represents the Fund for Scotland’s first equity investment in the Highlands and Islands.
Benbecula Distillery began production in spring 2024, working to a recipe first used over 130 years ago. Its visitor centre and café opened in April 2025, attracting locals and tourists with guided tours, whisky tastings and island-inspired cuisine, while creating new employment opportunities for the Hebridean community.
The business is led by founder, Angus MacMillan, and managing director, Hector MacLeod, who were both born and raised on the Islands.
Benbecula’s distilling is overseen by master distiller Brendan McCarron, whose career has included senior roles with Moët Hennessy and Distell, creating critically acclaimed whiskies for Glenmorangie, Ardbeg, Oban, Tobermory, Deanston and Bunnahabhain.
MacMillan said: “Securing this investment is a major milestone for us and for the island.
“It gives us the ability to scale production with confidence, continue creating skilled jobs locally, and develop visitor experiences that bring people closer to our story.
“Most importantly, it allows us to keep laying down spirit for future generations. Benbecula Distillery was founded to celebrate the Outer Hebrides’ people and place and this backing helps us realise that vision.”
Sarah Newbould, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, said: “The Investment Fund for Scotland was created to fund ambitious businesses across the country, and Benbecula Distillery is the perfect example of the kind of bold, community-rooted venture we’re proud to see the fund support.
“This investment will not only fuel the development of a distinctive whisky brand but also drive job creation and economic growth in the Outer Hebrides, inviting locals and visitors from further afield to visit the Isles and try some of Scotland’s best spirit.
“The distillery team’s dedication to its craft and local impact mirrors our mission to help smaller businesses succeed and we are eager to see where they take the brand next.”
Rob Stevenson, investment manager at Maven, added: “We’re excited to announce our investment in Benbecula Distillery and to back an ambitious and passionate local Hebridean team.
“What stood out to us immediately was the distillery’s dedication to craft, a deep respect for industry tradition, and a clear vision for the future, which includes a strong commitment to doing things the right way.
“We believe the investment has the potential to bolster the island community while building a brand that celebrates Scotland’s whisky heritage.”
The British Business Bank deal comes as the distillery launches its limited second private cask offering, giving whisky enthusiasts and investors an opportunity to secure early access to the distillery’s spirit ahead of the first bottled releases.
Following a sell-out cask sale last year, a further 120 casks are now available, in three varieties – Palo Cortado Hogshead, Red Wine Barrique and Bourbon Barrel.
