Scotch Shows Strong Value Growth In U.S. In First Half

Scotch whisky exports to the U.S. market surged by value in the first half of the year, driven by the single malt segment. Total Scotch shipments to the U.S. rose 8.6% to £388 million ($512m) over the first six months of the year, including a 14% jump to £123 million ($162m) for single malts. That growth builds on a 2016 performance in which Scotch exports to the U.S. leapt by 14% to £856 million ($1.1b), with single malt expressions up 17%.

While Scotch continues to post strong gains in the U.S., the Scotch Whisky Association sounded a cautionary note for the overall category, in light of the pending Brexit negotiations. “The value of Scotch whisky exports was up more than 3% in the first half of this year to £1.8 billion ($2.4b), which is great news,” said Karen Betts, CEO of the Scotch Whisky Association. “But the figures mask more concerning underlying trends. The value of exports is up, but the volume is down. With the changes Brexit will bring to the way the industry operates and trades, we need the support of the U.K. government at home and overseas if we are to grasp the opportunities and keep this international success story going.” —Daniel Marsteller

Tagged : Scotch, Scotch Whisky Association

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