Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/26650
SCOTCH REPORT CONFIDENCE IS UP AND ALL INDICATORS POINT TO An Exciting Year Ahead 2 by Ian Buxton 010 proved a momentous year for Scotch whisky. All the signs are, with an improving global economy, confidence will continue to grow and we can expect a wave of innovation, new product releases and revamped packaging as soon as marketers have absorbed their holiday sales figures and completed 2011’s budget. Hang on for an exciting ride. Great Expectations Despite continuing economic gloom, Scotch whisky distillers are on-track to set a new export record for the fifth year in a row, according to the Scotch Whisky Association and the U.K. government. Scotch exports rose by 12% for the first ten months of 2010, compared to the same period of 2009. Exports reached GBP 2.8 billion (US$ 4.5 billion) for the period, surpassing the total for the whole of 2007, and are forecast to set a new record for the full 12 months. Exports will have to top GBP 3.13 billion to achieve that. If they do, it will be the fifth consecutive record-breaking year for scotch exports in value terms. New Dawn for Dalmore Luxury single malts continue to flow from The Dalmore, the most recent being Dalmore Eos, a 59 year old named, so we are told, after the Titan goddess of the dawn (hands up if you knew that). In keeping with previous releases in the series, numbers are strictly limited to just 20 bottles, at an eye-water- ing $24,000 each (presumably a quantity discount is avail- able). However, it does come in a handsome decanter and presentation box that would grace any back bar. Meanwhile, single malt specialist Glenmorangie has released the latest expression from its Private Edition range. Finealta will be available 2 / the tasting panel / march 201 1 to both on-premise and liquor stores with an expected bottle retail ticket around $80. Diageo Shuffle Management changes at Diageo see Mark Hubler appointed President, Open States and Greg Armstrong President, Control States and National Accounts for the U.S. spirits division of the global drinks giant. In their new roles, each will have full responsibility for the development and execu- tion of the company’s commercial strategy for spirits in the U.S., with Hubler leading Diageo’s teams in open states, where alcohol is sold and distributed privately while regulated by the state. Armstrong will lead Diageo’s efforts in the 18 control states that are directly responsible for the retail and/or wholesale distribution of alcohol sales. Both will serve on Diageo’s North America executive team, reporting to Larry Schwartz, President of Diageo USA. Glasgow Gathering The initial speakers roster for the 6th World Whiskies Conference (Glasgow, Scotland, April 12–13, 2011) has been announced and features several U.S.-based presenters. DISCUS’s Mark Gorman, Senior VP for Government Affairs is slated to update del- egates on trends in the U.S. whisk(e)y market, while experiential marketing guru David Polinchok is flying in from New York to review trends in social media and the “experience economy.” Other speakers include former Diageo Head of Strategic Affairs Donald Blair, who is expected to galvanise delegates with his controversial views on why Scotch whisky has failed Scotland. Full details and registra- tion at www.whiskyconference.com.