Scottish beer company Innis & Gunn has formed a US operational arm – Innis & Gunn USA.  The new company, led by Dan DeLuca, will be responsible for the distribution and marketing of the Innis & Gunn range as the US becomes a key focus for securing the brand’s continued growth.  Figures for 2009 released next month are expected to show a 30% YoY rise in turnover.

Currently, the US accounts for 3% of Innis & Gunn sales, but with the ‘craft’ beer category in the US making up 16% of the total US beer market, there is opportunity for growth.

Structuring the new operation and managing the route to market is new managing director Dan DeLuca, who joins Innis & Gunn USA from International Beverage. He has 17-years experience in managing major distributors, launching numerous beer and spirit brands and marketing a wide range of Scotch whiskies.

Dougal Sharp, managing director, Innis & Gunn Brewing Company, said: “Gaining a strong foothold in the US is an integral part of our growth strategy as we look to write the next chapter in Innis & Gunn’s success story.  The market conditions are perfect, the product is perfect and now we have the perfect man in the job to lead the new set-up.  Dan’s track record speaks for itself and we’re thrilled to have him as part of the team.   

“Our revenue from exports accounts for around two-thirds of our turnover.  With the US growth plans, our ambition of making Innis & Gunn as synonymous with Scotland as any malt whisky brand comes one step closer.”

Innis & Gunn has three core products in its range: Original, Blonde and Rum Cask, as well as many limited edition beers.  It is available in seven countries globally (UK, US, Canada, Ireland, Finland, Sweden and Norway).

Tags | beer, Innis & gunn, News, usa