Artisanal Spirits launches Scotch Malt Whiskey franchise in Vietnam

(Sharecast News) - The Artisanal Spirits Company announced the expansion of its international footprint on Monday, with the launch of a new Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) franchise in Vietnam, entering one of the world's top 10 markets for ultra-premium Scotch whisky by value. It said Vietnam's ultra-premium Scotch market was estimated to be worth $239m, according to 2024 IWSR data.

The AIM-traded firm said the move formed part of its ongoing strategic expansion in Asia, following recent entries into South Korea and Taiwan, and built on existing operations in China and Japan.

It said the new franchise would allow SMWS to directly serve its global membership base in Vietnam.

"The addition of the new market in Vietnam further expands our footprint in Asia and gives us direct access to one of the top 10 ultra-premium Scotch whisky markets, helping us to capture demand for our unique combination of ultra-premium and limited-edition whiskies and outstanding experiences and knowledge," said chief executive officer Andrew Dane.

At 1219 BST, shares in the Artisanal Spirits Company were up 2.87% at 50.2p.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.