New report reveals that Scotch Whisky production contributes £7.1 billion to the UK economy and supports 66,000 jobs.
The Scotch Whisky Association has published a report on the economic impact of Scotch whisky production in both Scotland and the UK. Their findings indicate that the industry generated £7.1 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) for the UK as a whole in 2022, with £5.3 billion originating in Scotland. Additionally, the report demonstrates that the industry sustained 66,000 jobs across the UK by 2022, of which 41,000 were based in Scotland.
The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) functions as a trade organization representing the Scotch whisky industry. Its role is to create optimal conditions for Scotch whisky producers, ensuring the spirit retains its position as the world’s leading alcoholic beverage.
Mark Kent, Chief Executive of the SWA, remarked, “What we discover is that over the past turbulent five years, during which the industry faced retaliatory tariffs in the largest global market and the world confronted a global pandemic with subsequent economic pressures, the Scotch Whisky industry has remained resilient. It has redoubled its commitment to providing employment, investment, and opportunities in Scotland and beyond. The numbers are impressive—a 29% increase in GVA since 2018, the last time we took a snapshot of the industry’s economic footprint; 24,000 more jobs supported across the UK than a decade ago; and billions invested in future growth.
These figures underscore the impact that Scotch whisky has on the UK economy. In Scotland alone, the Scotch whisky industry contributes £3 out of every £100 of GVA and is responsible for 77% of all Scottish food and drink exports.
Source: https://www.scotch-whisky.org.uk/insights/facts-figures/scotch-whisky-economic-impact-report-2024/
