The Irish Whiskey Association has welcomed the official opening of the Connacht Whiskey Company, saying that it will be good for jobs and tourism, as well as the local economy in Mayo.
The Association added that the opening is a sign of the broader growth in the Irish whiskey sector that has taken place in recent time.
In 2013, there were only four distilleries in Ireland in operation, producing and selling Irish whiskey, whereas now there are 32 new or proposed distilleries across the country.
Miriam Mooney, Head of the Irish Whiskey Association commented that Irish whiskey “is a premium product that can only be made on the island of Ireland.”
“Irish whiskey has carved out its own niche in the global spirits market, relying on the traditional craft of Irish distilling and authentic heritage, underpinned by high-quality whiskey with a distinctive taste and broad appeal,” she added.
Earlier this year, the Irish Whiskey Association published its strategy document to support sustainable growth in the sector, which predicts employment in the sector growing by 30%.
The market report also says that Irish whiskey exports will double by 2020, and double again by 2030. It also expects that Irish whiskey’s global market share will grow by 300% by 2030, from 4% to 12%, with investments of over €1.1 billion between 2010 and 2025 allowing production levels to rise by 41%.
© 2015 - Checkout Magazine by Jenny Whelan.
