Glasgow Whisky has submitted a planning application to upgrade the Speyside Distillery. If plans are approved by Highland Council, Glasgow Whisky will redevelop the distillery with the goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions.

Founded in 2007, Glasgow Whisky’s focus has been in bulk exports and branded cased sales of whisky. The purchase of Speyside Distillery in 2021 marked a planned expansion for the company. The Speyside Distillery has been the base of Speyside Distillers' SPEY whisky brand. Speyside Distillers will continue to operate from the site until its lease expires in April 2025.

The redevelopment has been designed by Organic Architects, the firm behind designs for several distilleries looking to reduce their impact on the planet, including Ardnamurchan and Benbecula in Scotland and Ahascragh in Ireland. The plans for Glasgow Whisky’s distillery include “incorporating the latest energy-efficient technology”, Organic Architects said.

The distillery site was acquired in 1952, having previously been an 18th-century barley mill and croft, and built over two decades, finally starting production in 1990. Bari Reid, director at Organic Architects, said that upgrades would reflect the progress made in energy efficiency since the distillery was built.

He continued: “To accommodate new technologies, we will need to make changes to the building to allow for heat and water recovery systems in the distilling process. Our alterations will harmonise with the existing structures and utilise high-quality materials that complement the original buildings and surroundings of the site. As a result of the improvements, we predict around a 44 per cent reduction in energy consumption per litre of alcohol produced.”

Graham Taylor, director at Glasgow Whisky, added: “The building will remain a Scotch whisky distillery, and its primary purpose will not change. We are excited to become part of the low carbon community and are committed to supporting it through our operations. We aim to blend modern developments with respect for the site’s heritage and surroundings, contributing to both the local economy and sustainable growth.”