Luke Maga is Global Travel Retail Managing Director for Loch Lomond Group.

US-based premium spirits distributor Blue Caterpillar will work with Loch Lomond Group in travel retail Americas as part of an agreement announced today (12 December).

Blue Caterpillar will also oversee distribution activities for the independent distiller’s portfolio, which includes single and blended malts Glen Scotia, Loch Lomond, Nobel Rebel, Spearhead, High Commissioner Blended Scotch, Littlemill, plus Glen’s Vodka and Champagne PIAFF, in Latin America and Caribbean domestic markets.

Luke Maga, Loch Lomond Group Managing Director – Global Travel Retail, said: “The strategic partnership with Blue Caterpillar is an important step towards accelerating Loch Lomond Group’s growth in The Americas. We are keen to capitalise on the booming Scotch whisky market in the Americas with our portfolio that offers something for every occasion, as well as tap into the Champagne and gin sectors.”

Michael Gebrael, Co-Founder and CEO, Blue Caterpillar added: “We are honoured to collaborate with Loch Lomond Group, a company synonymous with quality, innovation, and a rich heritage in the spirits industry.

“This strategic distribution agreement aligns perfectly with our mission to bring exceptional brands to consumers across Latin America, the Caribbean and travel retail. Loch Lomond Group’s portfolio perfectly complements our commitment to delivering outstanding products to our discerning clientele.”

The agreement comes at a time of continued growth and expansion for the Scotch whisky category in particular, though exports by volume and value declined by 20% and 3.6%, respectively, in the first half of 2023 compared with 2022, according to data from trade body the Scotch Whisky Association.

At £437m (-5.1%), the US remained the largest export destination for Scotch whisky in value terms in the first half of 2023.

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