Cork-based technology company LYQD has successfully raised €1.2 million in pre-seed funding to develop what it calls a “secure and transparent” trading platform for Irish whiskey casks and bulk spirits. The platform aims to revolutionize how distillers, investors and collectors buy and sell whiskey assets.
The funding round received significant backing from Enterprise Ireland’s High-Potential Start-Up (HPSU) programme, with the platform scheduled to launch later in 2025.
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Market Timing Amid Industry Uncertainty
The fundraiser comes during a period of potential market disruption for Irish whiskey producers. Industry analysts point to concerns about possible reintroduction of U.S. tariffs on European alcohol under the new Trump administration, creating uncertainty around export strategies.
“This funding milestone enables us to bring a much-needed solution to the market,” said James Jardella, CEO of LYQD. “Irish whiskey has seen strong growth over the past decade, but the traditional cask and bulk whiskey market remains fragmented and complex. LYQD will make transactions smoother, safer, and more accessible for all stakeholders.”
Many Irish distilleries are now exploring alternative revenue streams and market approaches to maintain production levels despite potentially softening demand in key export markets like the United States.
Addressing Transparency Concerns
LYQD’s platform development follows increased scrutiny of whisky cask investment practices. A recent BBC investigation highlighted instances of mis-selling in the scotch whisky cask market, emphasizing the need for greater transparency in alternative asset trading.
While no similar issues have been reported in Ireland’s whiskey market, LYQD’s platform will implement authentication protocols that allow only verified casks to be listed, creating what the company describes as “safer and more reliable transactions.”
The company plans to open pre-registration soon, allowing distilleries, investors, and collectors to sign up for early access to the platform, where they can list or purchase whiskey casks when the service launches.
The company, founded by Ernest Cantillon and James Jardella, expects to officially launch its trading platform before the end of 2025.
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Cask Investment Due Diligence
At Mark Littler Ltd transparency and honesty are the principal policies. To find out everything you need to know about navigating the scotch whisky investment market, from what to buy to how to invest safely, visit the Mark Littler Ltd website. You can also read our previous cask investment articles here.
While Irish whiskey has shown impressive growth, it remains an emerging investment class without the established track record of scotch whisky. Please invest with care.
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