The company saw pre-tax profits fall to £274.4 million and revenue decline to £912m. This follows a period of industry-leading growth for the business, which stated it experienced the “full-year impact of reduced consumer demand” in the past financial year. Despite the decline, its core contribution remains 38% ahead of pre-pandemic levels.

The sales decline was broadly consistent across most international markets. However, the company noted a resilient performance from Brugal rum in the Dominican Republic and strong results for The Macallan in South Korea and Japan. In China, demand for The Macallan’s 12, 15, and 18-year-old expressions continued to grow, bolstered by products launched for the brand’s 200th anniversary.

Edrington’s profits were further impacted by increased production and employment costs. In response to the revenue drop, the company reduced its brand investment by 9%, though it maintained a market-leading reinvestment ratio of 24% of core revenue.

In a strategic shift to focus on the premium market, Edrington has sold The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt brands to William Grant & Sons, with the sale finalised on 1 July 2025. These brands are now recorded as discontinued operations and are excluded from the 2025 results.

Edrington’s CEO, Scott McCroskie, said: “After several years of unprecedented growth for premium spirits and industry-leading results posted by Edrington, the business felt the full effect of the global economic downturn during the year.

“Our focus on ultra-premium spirits has driven Edrington’s growth in recent years and we have continued to execute our strategy despite the hostile trading environment. This includes further strategic investments in our sherry cask supply chain and in reducing our carbon footprint.

“On 1st July 2025 we completed the sale of The Famous Grouse and Naked Malt brands to William Grant & Sons. This reflects our choice to focus on the premium end of the market, where we are best placed to compete.”

He continued: “Looking ahead, the political and economic backdrop remains volatile, which we expect will continue to weigh on consumer sentiment in the coming year. We believe top-line growth will be difficult to come by in this environment, although adjustments to overheads and brand investment are expected to align net sales and core contribution more closely next year.

“Edrington’s strategic focus on ultra-premium spirits remains effective. We will continue to execute it to strengthen our brands and our business for the long-term benefit of our investors, our employees, and those who benefit from our own and our principal shareholder’s charitable activities.”