Which recent ESG initiative or improvement at Clonakilty are you most proud of?
After 12 months of preparation, Clonakilty received B Corp certification in May 2025, becoming the first whisk(e)y distillery in the EU to receive this qualification.
At Clonakilty, we recognise that B Corp certification is the gold standard, and the changes and initiatives we implemented to achieve this standard enabled us to put truly lasting and robust structures in place.
What’s the biggest ESG challenge facing the drinks industry today?
There’s a compliance cost to many of these initiatives. As a small example, we only purchase more expensive renewable electricity as part of our sustainability commitment. So right now, there’s a constant wrestling match between what’s more cost-effective and what’s the right thing to do.
Long term, there’s only one answer, so despite the financial challenges, we must stay true to our values, including our commitment to customers, staff and community.
What advice would you give to companies looking to strengthen their ESG performance?
Identify and join a certification programme, whichever that may be. Include all staff when it comes to deciding what’s important, and let them lead from the ground up in implementing those initiatives.
How has winning an ESG Award influenced your approach?
Among other sustainability awards, we were fortunate to be awarded a gold medal at the Global Drinks Intel ESG Awards in 2025. Accolades such as this gave us the confidence and grounding to fully commit to our long-term ESG programme.
