Craig Martin, newly appointed vice president of global manufacturing at Suntory Global Spirits, has been inducted into the prestigious Keepers of the Quaich, an international society that recognises those who have made an outstanding contribution to the Scotch Whisky industry.
Martion was inducted as a Keeper of the Quaich at the Autumn 2026 Banquet at Blair Castle, Perthshire, in recognition of his contribution to Scotch Whisky and his leadership across Suntory Global Spirits’ Scotch manufacturing operations.
He has spent 18 years working within the spirits industry, playing a key role in the stewardship of Suntory’s Scotch whisky production and manufacturing operations.
Most recently, as general manager of manufacturing operations UK & Ireland and India, Martin oversaw operations across the company’s Scotch whisky distilleries and production sites, helping to protect ‘the quality, craftsmanship and heritage’ behind brands including Laphroaig, Bowmore, Teacher’s, Auchentoshan, Ardmore and Glen Garioch.
During his tenure, Craig has also helped lead significant investment in Suntory’s Scotch whisky manufacturing footprint, including plans to develop and upgrade the historic Laphroaig Distillery on Islay, supporting its long-term production capabilities, sustainability and visitor experience.
Martin said: “It is a huge honour to be inducted as a Keeper of the Quaich. Scotch Whisky has been an important part of my career and I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work alongside people with extraordinary expertise, passion and respect for the craft.
“This recognition belongs as much to the teams across our distilleries and operations as it does to me. As I move into my new global role, I’m proud to take everything I have learned from my time working in Scotch Whisky with me, while remaining a passionate advocate for the industry, its people and its heritage.”
Chris Richardson, VP Scotch, Irish and International Marketing, commented: “Craig’s induction as a Keeper of the Quaich is a fitting recognition of the contributions he has made to Scotch Whisky and to Suntory Global Spirits.
“Craig has always understood that producing exceptional whisky is about much more than the liquid itself. It is about protecting generations of craftsmanship, investing responsibly for the future and, above all, supporting the people and communities that make our Scotch whiskies what they are.
“As Craig takes on his new global manufacturing role, he will bring that deep respect for craftsmanship and quality to our manufacturing operations around the world. We are delighted to see his contribution to Scotch Whisky recognised in this way.”
