The surging cost of energy is mixing with increased prices for shipping to give Scotch whisky distillers a headache, according to a recent survey.
Trade organisation The Scotch Whisky Association said late last week that 29% of the distillers that responded to its survey have seen their energy costs double in the last 12 months. The increases coincide with 43% of respondents flagging a 50%+ rise in supply chain costs over the same period.
The survey forms the basis for a plea from the SWA to UK authorities to cancel a planned double-digit lift in the rate of spirits duty. Chief executive Mark Kent warned that the increase, scheduled for later this year, “would further fuel inflation”.
All respondents to the organisation’s survey said they expect to “need to add to their workforces in the coming year”, such is the good health of Scotch worldwide.
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