Bosses at Aberdeenshire distiller Esker Spirits are toasting a deal to supply Co-op stores throughout Scotland.
Three of Esker’s products went on sale at up to 50 Co-ops in time for Scottish Food and Drink Fortnight, which runs until September 15.
The Royal Deeside distillery‘s Esker London Dry Gin, Scottish Raspberry Gin and Valencian Orange Gin are included in the deal, helping to raise the profile of the brand Scotland-wide.
The family-run craft spirit-maker, based near Kincardine O’Neill, employs five people and created its first bottle of spirit in 2015.
It uses locally sourced botanicals, including its key silver birch sap – tapped from the trees of Kincardine Castle Estate.
Esker managing director Steven Duthie, who founded the business together with wife Lynne said: “We are absolutely delighted to be working with the Co-op.
“The listing comes at an important time to support our business – the additional awareness, reach and availability from being stocked in our local Co-op and in communities across the country is a huge boost.”
Kevin Buchan, Co-op local sourcing buying manager, Scotland, said: “Co-op is all about connecting communities, making a difference and creating value locally, and our work to celebrate and support local suppliers and great Scottish food and drink is a cornerstone of this approach.”
Gin is a fast-growing category of the UK and other drink markets, and demand for new, unique or locally-made products also shows no sign of abating.
