UK gin distiller Sky Wave is eyeing international opportunities as it seeks to expand its presence in export markets.
The Oxfordshire-based business is available in France, Germany and Malta and it told Just Drinks it is “in active dialogue with importers and distributors in a number of territories”.
While it would not be drawn on exact countries, it said it sees potential in Europe, Asia and the Americas.
“India, the Far East, South America and the US are all growth regions with a passionate demand for premium British gin,” co-founder Rachel Hicks said. “The award-winning liquids that Sky Wave distils have an opportunity to resonate with engaged consumers in these markets.”
She added: “Looking beyond our shores is something that’s built into our brand and business. As such, we’re working with an export consultant and are in active dialogue with importers and distributors in a number of territories. We aim to grow our export sales and availability in more countries across the world in 2024 and onwards.”
It comes as the distiller launched new packaging and a 700ml format in October “to compete with bigger brands”.
“With 70cl as the industry standard, we wanted to leave behind the (possibly misconceived) notion that craft equals 500ml. We’re looking to compete with bigger brands on the same terms,” Hicks said.
She added: “The update has also slimmed down the bottles: we have cut 40% in weight compared to the previous packaging which is designed to weigh only 650g. This helps with reducing environmental impact in transport, plus we have managed to offer consumers more liquid proportionally for the price.”
Sky Wave was founded in 2018 by Andy Parsons and Rachel Hicks. Its portfolio includes a London dry gin with an RRP of £44 ($54) for 70ml, a raspberry and rhubarb gin, spiced apple gin liqueur and an alcohol-free distilled spirit. The brand is available in the on-premise and off-premise with a focus on independent retailers.
The distillery has a production capacity of 250,000 bottles a year, “with options to expand using the concentrate method of production”. It bottles and labels in house.
Parsons, co-founder and master distiller, said: “With our new look, we're not just reimagining a bottle, we're reshaping the narrative of Sky Wave. This transformation symbolises the exciting journey upon which Sky Wave is embarking —a global mission to bring our exceptional gin to enthusiasts all over the world.”
German gin brand Elephant Gin also recently told Just Drinks it sees potential for growth in the US. Elephant Gin is exported to over 40 markets including the UK, Italy, Spain, Benelux and – most recently – the US. The company doubled its distilling capacity with the opening of a €4m ($4.2m) distillery site in October.
