Henstone Distillery secures investment for new production facility

Mike Harris, co-founder of Ubuntu Business Holdings and chairman at The New Saints FC, has acquired 50% ownership of the company.

His investment will support the drinks company’s plans to move to a new location as it continues to grow the brand.

Expansion goals

Commenting on the investment, Henstone co-founder Chris Toller 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.”​

Established in Oswestry, Shropshire 2017 by Chris and Alexandra Toller, and Shane and Alison Parr, Henstone Distillery produces Whisky, Gin, Vodka, Rum, a ‘bourbon equivalent’ called Old Dog Corn Liquor and a ‘calvados equivalent’ called Nonpareil.

All products currently produced by the distillery will continue to be produced and will still be available through existing outlets. Further, all collaborations, including white-label and joint-branded products, will also continue to be produced.

Growth at a national scale

Harris added: “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”.​

Meanwhile, in other food and drink investment news, organic dairy start-up All Things Butter has secured pre-seed funding of more than £530k​​ to support its launch into the UK market and create new jobs.

The funds raised will be predominantly spent on working capital to ensure production of enough stock to supply retail demand, as well as a few key hires. A small portion of the investment will be spent on advertising.