Shropshire distillery reveals growth plans as football chairman comes on board
A Shropshire distillery has received investment from a football club chairman as part of major growth plans for the business.
Henstone Distillery, based in Oswestry, has confirmed that Welshpool-born entrepreneur Mike Harris has acquired 50 per cent ownership of the company.
And, as part of the deal, the distillery will move to a new location, with more details to follow in due course.
Mr Harris, founder of Ubuntu Business Holdings Ltd and chairman at The New Saints FC, said: “I’m excited to play a role in the future of Henstone Distillery.
"After buying my first bottle of Navy Gin at the 2021 Sweeney Gin Festival, I have watched with interest as the company continues to grow on a national scale.
"Now, I’m looking forward to helping the brand achieve its growth ambitions as we move into a particularly exciting time for Henstone Distillery”.
Having been named the UK’s Distillery of the Year for 2023, Henstone Distillery’s Rosé Gin was awarded ‘Best in Britain’ earlier this year.
The brand also secured a clean-sweep of awards for their London Dry, Navy, and Rosé gins at this years Gin Guide Awards.
All products currently produced by Henstone Distillery, including their multi-award-winning gin, whisky, vodka, brandy and rum, will continue to be produced and will still be available through existing outlets.
Collaborations including white-label and joint-branded products will also continue to be produced.
Chris Toller, co-founder of Henstone Distillery, said: “We have seen enormous growth since establishing Henstone back in 2017.
"Having outgrown our current site, this deal will provide us with a new space that will help us achieve our expansion goals and continue to produce products of the highest standard.”
