Moray politicians hail Scotch whisky report as figures show one in nine Moray jobs tied to whisky production
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A NEW report outlining the economic impact of the whisky industry has shown that one in nine jobs in Moray are tied to the spirit's production.
Over 5000 jobs are tied to Scotch whisky's production in Moray, which has the largest concentration of distilleries in the world.
The report also shows that the contribution of the Scotch whisky industry to the UK economy as a whole reached £7.1billion in 2022.
Moray MP Douglas Ross says that the report highlights the "huge importance" of the industry to the region.
Mr Ross said: “It is quite remarkable that one in every nine jobs in Moray are linked to whisky production.
"That is why it is so welcome to see the industry invest over £2 billion last year, which has directly benefitted so many of the iconic distilleries across our communities."
Mr Ross added: "I was so pleased that Chancellor Jeremy Hunt froze duty on whisky in his recent Autumn Statement.
"That was a huge shot in the arm for the industry at a time when they are facing major challenges.
"I will be continuing to lobby for measures to support Scotch whisky in March’s budget from the Treasury, and if the Chancellor needs any convincing as to why he should back up his Autumn Statement, then he only needs to look at this impact report."
Whisky made up 77 per cent of Scotland's food and drink exports in 2022.
Moray MSP Richard Lochhead says the figures show the "scale of investment" and "growth" in the sector in recent years.
Mr Lochhead said: “As the MSP for Speyside, I welcome the creation of more jobs in the industry which of course benefits our communities and Moray’s local economy greatly.
"Recent investment in visitor experience within the whisky industry has also boosted Moray and Scotland’s tourism sector.
"I’m sure we can all raise a glass to the success of one of Scotland’s most iconic exports and I hope we can look forward to further growth and success for the industry, particularly here in Speyside."
