Better Roads Could Make Scotland’s Whisky Industry Even Bigger

Scotch whisky is popular the world over, but for Scotland it’s much more than just a beloved drink. In many regions, the whisky industry is a vital source of jobs, tourism, and pride. And the beauty of it is that this very “nectar of the gods” now has the power to help Scotland grow faster and grow better.

Scottish whisky travels to every corner of the globe. Long before a bottle ever reaches the shelf, it’s already come a long way. That journey begins at the distillery, often found at the end of a winding country road.

Those roads are now a topic of debate at the GMB Congress in Scotland, where there’s a strong call to make Scotland bigger in “making things.”

John Dolan, a delegate for GMB Scotland, addressed the congress with a plea not to outsource work unnecessarily and at great expense. Instead, he proposes getting more done at home.

As an example, he noted that a Dutch company (Damen) was recently awarded a contract to build Royal Navy vessels. The work was outsourced, while a domestic shipyard wasn’t even allowed to bid.

On Scotland’s transport infrastructure, Lynsay MacKay of GMB Scotland had plenty to say. She sees huge opportunities for the whisky world in the Highlands and Islands, if the roads are improved.

Better roads make transport far easier, which would be a major boost for the whisky industry. Scotland’s economy could grow much faster as a result. Beyond the benefits for logistics and commuting, there’s another compelling reason to invest: whisky tourism.

Alongside exports, whisky tourism is playing an ever larger role. Visitors from near and far come to Scotland to tour distilleries and enjoy tastings and they explore the surrounding areas while they’re there. That represents a major opportunity for hotels, restaurants, shops, and local guides, according to GMB delegates.

The easier it is for travelers to reach and discover the Highlands, the greater the economic value for the region. If distilleries and warehouses are more accessible, it won’t just lift whisky sales, tourism will rise as well. That spells huge potential for the Highlands, with benefits that ripple out to other local businesses such as bakeries, hotels, shops, and liquor stores.

Whether the proposal will pass remains to be seen. It will undoubtedly require further discussion.