Diageo plans to open new ‘super-distillery’ in Scotland

Drinks giant Diageo has followed Pernod-Ricard after providing details of plans to open a new distillery in Scotland.

Bell’s, Johnnie Walker and J&B distiller Diageo said that it will seeking permission for ‘super-distilleries’ at sites in Teaninich, Ross-shire and Glendullan and Inchgower in Speyside as the firm aims to tap into growing demand for Scotch from emerging markets. Diageo has submitted ‘proposal of application notices’ for the three sites – a prelude to applying for full planning permission.

All three sites are near existing facilities and Diageo will decide where to build the new distillery by spring. The firm could build a second plant in attempt to supply growing demand for whisky in emerging markets.

In June, Diageo revealed plans to invest £1 billion in growing its business after posting positive performance during the financial 2012. Last year, Diageo opened its first major new distillery in several decades at a site near Elgin.

Earlier this year, Pernod Ricard said that it would spend £40 million on distillery facilities in Scotland after experiencing a Scotch sales surge in emerging markets.

Pernod Ricard is the world’s second largest spirits firm behind Diageo.