Minister of State for Northern Ireland, Steve Baker MP, has announced that Belfast Distillery Company has secured an historic distribution agreement in South Korea.
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The agreement, which will see almost 10,000 bottles of McConnell’s Irish Whisky shipped to South Korea, has been signed with Korean distributor Goldenblue and has been supported by Invest Northern Ireland’s new team in Seoul.
The announcement follows Minister Baker’s visit to Invest NI’s South Korean offices last month where he met with Invest NI South Korean team, learning how they have helped facilitate the deal as £8 million funding from the New Deal for Northern Ireland has helped Invest NI to expand its presence from Seoul to Paris.
Congratulating the company, Steve Baker MP said: "With its ambitious export plans, Belfast Distillery Company is now selling its products in over 30 countries, with its latest success showing how UK Government funding is helping Invest NI support Northern Ireland businesses on the world stage.
"Invest NI’s new Korean presence has been instrumental in helping to secure this distribution agreement and I am delighted to see the hard work of the Invest NI team paying off for NI businesses.
"New Deal funding is helping to promote some of the unbelievable talent and expertise that Northern Ireland has to offer and I hope the brilliant success of the Belfast Distillery team can help inspire others to take advantage of the opportunities offered by Invest NI’s new international locations."
This entry into another overseas market follows an announcement by Belfast Distillery Company in August of a multi-million investment to transform A Wing in Crumlin Road Gaol into a Whiskey Distillery and Visitor Experience, creating 49 new jobs in the heart of north Belfast.
Companies who want to explore Korea further, Invest NI is offering a ‘Spotlight on Korea’ tutorial on 8th February 2023 which will feature an expert panel of speakers who will offer insight and advice on key commercial opportunities in South Korea. ■