It has been announced today that International drinks group, Quintessential Brands will invest in a a major investment programme at its production facility in Abbeyleix, County Laois, the home of subsidiary company First Ireland Spirits, Ireland's largest independent producer of Irish Cream Liqueurs.
Almost a year after Quintessential Brands' acquisition of First Ireland Spirits, this significant investment reinforces the spirits company's commitment to Abbeyleix, where First Ireland Spirits is already the largest employer, and will transform its operations in Ireland to meet its ambitious growth plans.
These plans include growth in the global volumes of O’Mara’s Irish Country Cream, the imminent launch of luxurious Feeney’s Irish Cream, the development of The Dubliner Whiskey and, in the coming months, the expansion into other Irish whiskey products. Going forward, Quintessential Brands will also consider additional acquisition opportunities in Ireland.
The €4 million investment over the next 18 months will more than double the output of the Abbeyleix plant to approximately 2 million cases (over 24 million bottles) per year and create an additional 20 jobs in this historical town in the heart of Ireland.
Anna-Marie Delaney, Director of Services at Laois County Council said, "We are delighted to support Quintessential Brands’ investment in Abbeyleix and welcome their ambitions for the business and for the town with the creation of new jobs and opportunities for County Laois."
Quintessential Brands' co-founder and Director, Warren Scott added, "This investment is part of our ongoing strategy to develop Abbeyleix as the home of Irish Cream, boost our production capabilities, build a premium Irish brand portfolio and expand our contract manufacturing business in Ireland.
On behalf of the team at First Ireland Spirits, I’d like to thank Enterprise Ireland, who have worked with the company for over 20 years, and AIB for their continued support and commitment.
In addition, we are grateful to Laois County Council who have worked closely with us to facilitate our ambitious production expansion plans."
For more visit: www.businessworld.ie
