The Scotch whisky industry has highlighted commitment to skills and training as crucial factors in its continued success.
It also recognised that the industry needs to compete with other sectors to recruit engineers and project managers for its future wellbeing.
A new report ‘Scotch Whisky, Skilled Workforce’ by the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) underlined the industry’s investment in its employees through training and development.
The industry directly employs 10,800 people in Scotland and supports more than 40,000 jobs across the UK.
It adds £5 billion in value annually to the UK economy and is a star performer in exports.
Investing in the future of Scotch whisky benefits the entire economy and helps keep Scotland competitive.
The SWA research showed that 96% of Scotch whisky companies provide training to employees, compared to the Scottish average of 71%.
The majority 78% of Scotch Whisky firms do not face general recruitment issues, but they are not exempt from an engineering skills shortage affecting many industries.
The industry recruits at all levels: graduates, technical and management staff, school leavers and apprentices.
Fair Work and Skills Secretary Roseanna Cunningham said: “Three simple ingredients are needed to make a great Scotch whisky water, yeast and cereal but there is a great deal more.
“Skill, expertise, and commitment that the workforce deliver creates the product that has a worldwide recognition for excellence.
“The Scotch whisky industry is a cornerstone of the Scottish economy, with many employees in our rural and remote communities.”
She said the report was timely, with work taking place through Skills Development Scotland to refresh the food and drink strategy.
SWA chief executive David Frost said: “Attracting new talent and ensuring the workforce remains highly skilled is critical to our long-term future.
“Skills and training are vital for the continued success of Scotch whisky,” he added.