Single Malt Spurs Scotch Whisky Growth In The U.S.

Strong growth in the single malt segment drove Scotch whisky exports to gains in both volume and value in 2016, according to the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), marking a solid performance after years of mixed results. Single malt Scotch shipments surpassed £1 billion ($1.3b) in value for the first time last year on 12% growth, with the segment now accounting for just over a quarter of the total value of global Scotch exports.

The U.S. remains the leading market by value for Scotch whisky exports, with shipments up 14% to £865 million ($1.12b) last year. The SWA credited surging single malt Scotch sales, as well as growing consumer interest in premium products overall, with driving U.S. value progress. The results were also aided by a weaker pound sterling, which slumped after last June’s Brexit vote. But Scotch shipments to the U.S. also rose by volume, increasing 2% to 119 million bottles last year.

Overall, global Scotch exports rose nearly 5% by volume and 4% by value in 2016, to more than 1.2 billion bottles and £4 billion ($5.2b) respectively. As such, it was the first year since 2011 that the category has recorded both volume and value gains. —Christina Jelski

Tagged : Scotch, Scotch whisky, Scotch Whisky Association, Single malt, spirits

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