A new independent economic report has revealed that Isle of Harris Distillery has generated £37.7m in turnover and contributed £13.8m to the local economy since its founding in 2015. The review, conducted by MKA Economics, highlights the Outer Hebridean distillery’s role as a major driver of employment, tourism, and investment on the remote Scottish island.
Straight Neck Stills & Littlemill Roots: Five Things You Didn’t Know About Loch Lomond
READ THE STORYBased in the harbor village of Tarbert, the distillery has welcomed more than 650,000 visitors since opening its doors. Its portfolio, including the ultra-premium Isle of Harris Gin and The Hearach single malt whisky, is now sold across 25 countries.
The business has paid £10.7m in wages on an island of just 1,800 residents and is projected to pay a similar amount over the next five years. Infrastructure investment over the past decade totals £14.6m.
Trending Content
The distillery started with 10 employees and now employs 31. Normal growth conditions should support the creation of another 12 jobs by 2030, though these projections come against what the report describes as one of the most difficult trading periods for the Scotch whisky industry in more than 30 years.
Ron MacEachran, executive chairman of Isle of Harris Distillery, said: "Reflecting on the report findings, we are proud of what has been achieved, including the significant contribution the distillery has made to the island economy and community. It’s wonderful to be at a point where the distillery is clearly fulfilling its original purpose."
"Now we’re firmly focused on the next decade as we seek to grow our business and create further economic and social growth for the island community," MacEachran added. "We do not under-estimate the major challenges that we and the wider industry must navigate through."
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Mark Kummerer, director at MKA Economics, said: "Our analysis demonstrates that Isle of Harris Distillery has become a significant economic contributor within the Western Isles over the past decade, supporting employment, tourism and inward investment in its remote island community."
The distillery has earned both Scottish Gin Distillery of the Year, awarded twice, and Scottish Whisky Distillery of the Year honors. Its community impact was recently recognized during a visit from First Minister John Swinney, who met with the team in Tarbert.
Joanna Peteranna, director of area operations at Highlands and Islands Enterprise, said: "Isle of Harris Distillers is an ambitious business that has firmly established itself both in Scotland and internationally. It makes a strong contribution to the Outer Hebrides’ economy, creating jobs, attracting visitors and promoting the region on a global stage."
Andy Morrison, owner of Harris Hotel in Tarbert, added: "The Isle of Harris Distillery has had a transformational effect on the island since its very inception. Its importance to the island cannot be overstated."
