An agreement has been reached in the row over the Cardhu Scotch brand.


The Council of The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), which met today, also agreed to urgently pursue work to clarify industry definitions to benefit the consumer and the industry.


At a meeting of the Association’s Council this morning (4 December), brand owner Diageo promised to make significant changes to the packaging of the product including changing the colour from brown to green, and to carry out additional promotional activity explaining to consumers the nature of the new product.


The matter has focused attention on the need for the industry to clarify for consumers the various categories within the Scotch Whisky market.  To this end, the Council agreed to press ahead urgently with work designed to set out definitions with most immediate focus on single malt Scotch Whisky. Diageo will continue to review its packaging in the light of this completed work.


Speaking after the Council meeting, Gavin Hewitt, chief executive of the SWA said: “I am delighted that the SWA has managed to find a solution to this issue which even only a short while ago looked to have polarised the industry to a degree that was unhelpful for everyone concerned. The outcome today shows the value in continuing to keep talking to all parties, and underlines the central role that of the SWA and the work of the Executive in brokering a deal.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

“I hope that this matter can now be put behind us, and that the SWA and its members can concentrate on what we all do best, improving market access and increasing sales of Scotch Whisky around the world,” said Hewitt.