THE distilling company behind the rebirth of Belfast's former Crumlin Road Gaol has agreed to sell its whiskey in South Korea.
The American-owned Belfast Distillery Company has signed a deal with Korean premium distilled spirits distributor Golden Blue to sell 10,000 bottles of J&J McConnell’s Irish Whisky in the Asia state, initially thought to be worth around £200,000.
“This is a significant milestone for our business,” said Dessie Roche, commercial manager at Belfast Distillery Company.
In August, Belfast Distillery Co revealed plans for a £22m distillery and visitor centre at the old Crumlin Road Gaol. It is due to open in October and create 50 jobs.
The new distribution deal was signed by minister of state Steve Baker and supported by Invest NI’s new team in Seoul, where the opening of its office there was facilitated by £8m of government New Deal money.
MP Baker said: “With its ambitious export plans, Belfast Distillery Company is now selling its products in over 30 countries.
“Invest NI’s new Korean presence has been instrumental in helping to secure this distribution agreement, and I am delighted to see the hard work of the Invest NI team paying off for businesses here.
“New Deal funding is helping to promote some of the unbelievable talent and expertise Northern Ireland has to offer and I hope the brilliant success of the Belfast Distillery team can help inspire others to take advantage of the opportunities offered by Invest NI’s new international locations such as Korea.”
Invest NI international business director Steve Harper added: “Belfast Distillery Company's success in gaining a foothold in the Korean market showcases the scale of opportunities available to Northern Ireland businesses.
“Our in-market team in Seoul are ready and on-hand to work in partnership with local companies to help grow their exports.
“Invest NI is offering a ‘Spotlight on Korea’ tutorial on February 8 featuring an expert panel of speakers, who will offer insight and advice on key commercial opportunities in South Korea, and I encourage companies to get in touch and see how we can support them.”
