The UK launch will officially debut at this year’s Bar Convent London (BCB London), taking place from June 30–July 1, a leading international trade shows celebrating the best of the hospitality and drinks industry. The partnership with JBE Imports – founded in 2013 by a team with over 20 years of excellence in building premium brands and delivering memorable experiences – will ensure Pearse Lyons’ range of distinctive Irish spirits reaches new audiences, according to the company.
“This is more than just market expansion,” said Conor Ryan, head of production operations of Pearse Lyons Distillery. “It’s about finding partners who align with our values and vision, and JBE Imports is exactly that. We’re excited to bring the Pearse Lyons story to more people across the UK and beyond.” Additional growth is planned for other emerging regions with an emphasis on storytelling and utilising the distillery’s unique point of origin to create memories and experiences for its partners, according to the company.
As part of its broader global vision, the distillery has expanded its export team to accelerate market development across Europe and other international regions. The US remains the largest market for Irish whiskey, accounting for roughly 40 per cent of global exports. To support this critical region, the distillery is reinforcing its US presence through its sister distillery, Town Branch Distillery in Lexington, Kentucky. Looking ahead, the distillery is preparing for a wave of product innovation in 2025 and 2026 to support the planned expansions while exciting its existing and new partners. This innovation will be done by deepening its commitment to sustainability and agriculture to drive innovation which will include access to estate-grown grain expressions, upcycled barrel finishes and blends and its commitment to Bord Bia’s Origin Green programme which the distillery is currently a Gold Membership Recipient for ongoing sustainability initiatives for the past three years running.