Forty-two jobs created at distillery and visitor centre

Forty-two jobs created at distillery and visitor centre

Forty-two new jobs are to be created at a new distillery and visitor centre just outside Ballynahinch.

Economy Minister Diane Dodds officially opened the new Hinch Distillery which benefitted from a £15 million investment from the Department of the Economy.

Speaking after opening the 30,000sq ft facility, Diane Dodds said: “Since establishing in 2016, Hinch Distillery has experienced impressive growth. Through sheer hard work and determination, it has moved from idea stage to develop a range of products and grown to export its products to over 25 countries around the world.

“Invest Northern Ireland is helping the company achieve this ambitious growth strategy and is continuing to support and share its expertise with the opening of the distillery and immersive visitor centre.

“The creation of 42 new jobs as a result of this investment will contribute an additional £1.3million in additional annual salaries for the Northern Ireland economy.

Economy Minister, Diane Dodds with Dr Terry Cross OBE, Chairman, Hinch Distillery and Aaron Flaherty, Head Distiller

“The visitor centre is an impressive new tourist attraction where visitors can learn about the distillation process used to produce the company’s products. Northern Ireland is known globally for our great hospitality along with the pure natural quality of our produce.”

Speaking about the completion of the project, owner Dr Terry Cross OBE said: “Today marks a very proud moment for myself and the team who have finally realised a blueprint that is set to make its mark on the Northern Ireland tourism map and the global drinks industry. We would like to thank Invest Northern Ireland for its support and guidance so far. Its financial support and marketing assistance has been instrumental in our success to date.

‘International imprint’

“Our Hinch range of Irish whiskies and Ninth Wave Irish Gin brand are already leaving an imprint on the international drinks market. In just one year since launch, we’ve secured distribution deals in more than 25 countries including China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand, the US, France and Germany, while many more partnerships with renowned drinks distributors elsewhere are in the pipeline.

“And despite being relative newcomers to the market we are making waves at revered awards events globally including a Double Gold and ‘Gin of the Year’ trophy for our Ninth Wave Irish Gin at the China Wine and Spirit Awards (CWSA).  Being able to commence operations is just the beginning of our story. We look forward to celebrating our successful products at home, where they are made, and invite Northern Ireland to be part of that.”