A Scottish producer has called for the country’s gin to be given the same protected status as Scotch whisky.
Kim Cameron, owner of Angus-based Gin Bothy, met with a number of key politicians in both Holyrood and Westminster earlier this month in a bid to stop imitators cashing in on what she labelled “Brand Scotland”.
Scotch is one of 14 products protected by UK and EU Geographical Indication legislation. The two schemes guarantee a product’s characteristics or reputation, authenticity and origin, and Cameron wants that protection extended to Scottish gin.
“There are so many talented gin producers in Scotland but it’s crucial that our work isn’t diluted by brands who are using the Scottish name to enhance their marketing,” she said.
Cameron said a number of her fellow gin makers were worried about their products getting exploited.
“Gin is worth a lot of money to our economy and it’s important to tighten up the protection of our brands,” she added.
Sales of Scottish gin and whisky hit £9.4bn in 2023.
“The danger, with the lack of protection that is currently in place for Scottish gin, is that anyone can stick a label on their gin and claim to be Scottish. A lot of producers or companies would see the benefit of trading off the back of the popularity of Scotland as a brand.
“This isn’t something that will happen overnight but, in my role on the Scottish Rural Leadership Programme, it’s important to engage with people who can make a significant difference to the growth of the gin industry.”
Launched in 2006, The Scottish Rural Leadership Programme is designed to help Scottish rural business owners grow their business and gives them the chance to engage with politicians and influence policy.
