Irish Distillers reports record H1 sales of Jameson whiskey
Irish Distillers said it sold 5.8 million cases of Jameson whiskey in the first six months of its financial year to December 2021, the highest ever first half sales volume recorded for Jameson.
The figure was up 22% on the same time last year. Jameson recorded volume growth in key markets including the US (up 8%), the UK (up 16%) and South Africa (up 41%).
Within the broader Jameson family, Jameson Black Barrel recorded growth of 35% globally compared to the same time last year amid the growing consumer trend towards more premium brands.
Irish Distillers also said that consumers continued to show their appreciation for its single pot still portfolio in the first half of the year, led by Redbreast with record volume growth (+19%).
The Spot range recorded volume growth of 7%, its highest ever half year volume growth.
Conor McQuaid, Chairman and CEO of Irish Distillers said that in the first half of the company’s financial year, the world began to cautiously return to pre-pandemic activities with the return of international travel, social engagements and in-person events in some markets.
“This improving situation supported the growth of our full portfolio of Irish whiskeys led by Jameson, which sold 5.8 million cases in the first six months of our financial year,” Mr McQuaid said.
He said that Jameson is in growth in all key regions around the world, demonstrating the ever-increasing affinity for the brand on a global level.
“New generations of consumers and changing lifestyles are boosting this growth and we will continue to ignite, or in many cases re-ignite, a passion for Irish whiskey in markets around the world,” he added.
He also said the company fully recognises the difficulties its on-trade partners have faced recently.
“However, as the public health situation improves, we look forward to supporting them as they hopefully return to a more normalised and sustained operating environment,” he added.
Meanwhile, Irish Distillers owner Pernod Ricard earlier said it expected strong sales growth in its 2022 fiscal year despite potential disruptions tied to the Covid-19 virus.
