A Glasgow scaffolding and building contractor has swapped bricks for bottles by launching an ultra-premium vodka and flavoured vodka brand, Blur 69.
William Woodburn turned to drink – producing it, that is – after being driven up the pole by a lack of labour in the scaffolding industry.
With a target market of 18–28-year-olds, Blur 69 has already secured listings with over 40 retail outlets and 20 on-trade locations across the west of Scotland.
The fledgling brand also gained wider exposure as official MTV Europe Music Awards Green Room sponsor last year, getting served to the likes of Lewis Capaldi and Ava Max.
With five employees, Blur 69 is expecting substantial growth throughout 2023 from event hosting and additional sponsorships.
Blur 69 vodka is triple distilled in Scotland combining grain and water before a bespoke filtration system purifies it further. The flavoured vodkas use natural ingredients.
Former squaddie William had a thriving business in the building trade but felt it was time for a change in 2021, launching Clyde Whisky.
He said: “I really enjoyed the industry but rising costs alongside labour shortages were becoming increasingly challenging and so the time felt right to try my hand at something completely new.
“I knew nothing about the drinks industry but once I’ve made up my mind I want to master something, I won’t quit until I’ve perfected it. Whisky was my first foray into the market, but I saw an opportunity to create something different with Blur 69.
“People are looking for variety and innovation in flavours which is exactly what we aim to deliver. Pineapple, blue raspberry and watermelon flavoured vodkas are available now, with new expressions coming over the next few months.”
