Lawyers from Burges Salmon have worked on a £3m funding deal to hugely expand production at an English whisky and gin producer as it looks to double its export sales.
The Bristol-headquartered law firm’s banking and finance team advised Santander UK on its finance package for Cotswolds Distillery. 
The drinks company is already on track to increase its annual alcohol production from 125,000 litres to 500,000 litres with a new distillery at Shipston-on-Stour, Warwickshire, due to be commissioned in autumn.
Having becoming established in the domestic market, Santander UK’s funding will support the firm with its export growth strategy, building on existing sales in the US, France, Germany, China and Australia and doubling total overseas revenues over the next few years.
As a result, Cotswold Distillery is targeting annual sales growth of 15%, with plans to lift turnover to £25m by 2030.
It also plans to grow its 65-strong workforce over the next few years in line with growth.
Cotswolds Distillery was established in 2014 by Daniel Szor and its inaugural Signature Single Malt was released in 2017. As well as establishing a strong presence in the whisky market, it has also developed a range of award-winning super premium gins and liqueurs.
In the UK, its Cotswolds range is sold in supermarkets, bars, luxury hotels, restaurants and direct to consumers through its visitor centre, three stores and online business.
The Burges Salmon team that advised on the funding was led by director Amy McVey, alongside partner Stuart McMillan and solicitor Jack Mitchell.
Santander UK business development director Gavin Smith said the bank’s finance package would support Cotswolds Distillery’s liquidity, enabling it to lay down additional stock to meet future demand, improve production efficiencies and bolster its status as an English whisky producer.
“Cotswold Distillery has established itself as a leading brand in the English whisky and gin market and we are thrilled to support it with this funding package,” he added.
“Santander UK has a dedicated specialised whisky sector team as well as expertise and resources to help UK businesses in the sector expand internationally.
“We are grateful to Burges Salmon for its expert advice, which enabled us to complete this funding.”
Daniel Szor added: “I am delighted that we have had the support of Santander UK in enabling us to maximise our sales potential, allowing us to meet growing demand from the single malt consumer in this luxury category that is forecasting strong growth globally.”
