Drinks groups Edrington and Suntory are strengthening their existing strategic links with the Japanese business buying 10% of the Scottish group's shares for an undisclosed sum.
This agreement builds on a partnership between the two groups that dates back to the early 1990s.
Suntory has a long-term shareholding in The Macallan, the leading brand in Edrington’s portfolio and the most valuable single malt Scotch whisky in the world.
Suntory Holdings has also been an important distributor of Edrington brands in several key international markets over the past four decades, including Japan, Germany, Canada and South Africa; and through joint ventures in the UK, Spain and Russia.
The agreement will provide funds to Edrington’s principal shareholder, The Robertson Trust, which will allow it to give more to good causes across Scotland. It has donated more than £263 million to charitable causes in Scotland since 1961.
The Robertson Trust is the largest independent grant-making trust in Scotland with the vision of a fair and compassionate Scotland where everyone is valued and able to flourish. It will also provide funds for Edrington’s employee share scheme.
Edrington CEO Scott McCroskie said: “Edrington has a successful long-standing strategic partnership with Suntory.
“We share a similar ethos and the same passion for craftsmanship, innovation and quality in our brands. We look forward to cementing and building this deep relationship over the coming years.”
Glasgow- headquartered Edrington's main brand is The Macallan but it also has Highland Park and The Glenrothes in the fast-growing single malt category and Naked in the blended malt category.
