Independent Scotch whisky producer Nc’nean has appointed Mangrove Global as its new UK distribution partner as part of a move to develop its presence in-market and accelerate growth.

Founded on Scotland’s west coast, Nc’nean has built a reputation around organic production, experimental fermentation techniques and environmentally focused packaging, including the use of 100% recycled glass bottles.

Annabel Thomas, founder and chief executive of Nc’nean, said the company had been seeking a long-term partner capable of supporting both the whisky itself and the wider brand ethos, with Mangrove now set to add Nc’nean’s range of unpeated Scotch whiskies to its premium spirits portfolio.

She said: “As Nc’nean continues to grow in the UK, it was important for us to find a partner that genuinely understands both our whisky and the way we want to build the brand long term.

“Mangrove’s focus on flavour-led spirits and their understanding of the importance of delivering sustainable solutions to the next generation of consumers gave us confidence that they were the right partner for this next stage of our journey.

Nc’nean’s sustainability credentials have become a key part of its positioning in recent years. The distillery holds B Corp certification and is independently verified as net zero, placing it among a growing number of drinks producers placing environmental considerations at the centre of production and branding.

Nick Gillett, MD of Mangrove Global (part of SPIRIBAM Group), said the appointment reflected the distributor’s strategy of backing brands with strong liquid credentials and distinct positioning.

“At Mangrove, we build our portfolio around brands that lead with liquid and are anchored by something strong and unique; whether it’s a feature of the liquid or an ethos. Nc’nean does both, and it does so with a boldness that is rare even in a category as storied as Scotch whisky,” he said.