By Dave Lord

ONE OF the most respected names in the world of Scotch whisky is about to receive a £120 million investment boost.

Bacardi Limited, the largest privately- owned spirits firm in the world, is set to invest the money into Dewar’s in a bid to increase production of the popular brand in the company’s bid to satisfy demand from Asia.

A spokeswoman for the company said there are also plans to purchase 100 acres of land to be developed as a “blending facility” somewhere in central Scotland that will create approximately 100 jobs.

Bacardi’s president and chief executive Andreas Gembler gave details about one of the most significant investments in the Scotch whisky industry.

“This significant outlay is in response to the growing global demand for the premium portfolio of Dewar’s Scotch whiskies, which are among the top-selling and favourite Scotches in the world.

“Demand for Dewar’s premium whiskies has grown significantly, especially in Asia and other emerging markets where the brands were launched only in the past three years.

“To support our growth we will invest more than 250 million dollars, creating an entirely new infrastructure to support higher inventories of maturing whisky and increasing our blending, bottling and packing capabilities.”

“Bacardi has a rich history of investing in our brands and their heritage,” Mr Gembler continued.

“This substantial plan demonstrates our clear commitment to Scotland—known around the world for its quality whisky—and to our Dewar’s brands.”

Bacardi will build new supply facilities in Scotland, and will also redevelop their existing site in Glasgow’s east end.

The company spokeswoman continued, “Along with the expansion in production will be an increase in jobs and other benefits to the local economy—including sourcing, packaging and purchasing materials from local suppliers.”

Bacardi acquired the Dewar’s brand in 1998, since when the portfolio has expanded to include Dewar’s 12-year-old, 15-year-old, 18-year-old, Signature and Aberfeldy single malt.

In 2000 the company opened the Dewar’s World of Whisky visitor centre in Aberfeldy, which has gone on to become one of the country’s most popular Scotch whisky visitor sites.

The company was originally established by John Dewar in Perth in 1846.

Over the years, John Dewar & Sons Limited has grown from the small merchant’s store in the the town to become the globally famous brand it is today.